Starbucks South Korea Asks Customers to Avoid Bringing Large Office Equipment to Stores

Starbucks South Korea has issued a new request to its customers, asking them to refrain from bringing in desktop computers, printers, and other large equipment into its stores. The policy aims to address the increasing trend of customers transforming the coffee chain’s locations into makeshift offices, particularly as the remote-work culture continues to grow in the region. While smaller devices such as laptops remain allowed, the company has emphasized that bulky items may disrupt the in-store experience and limit seating availability for other patrons [1].

The policy change was first reported by The Korea Herald and reflects Starbucks South Korea’s effort to preserve the function of its cafes as a “third space” — a place where customers can relax, socialize, or work without the intrusion of excessive work equipment. A company spokesperson stated that the decision was not a formal ban but rather a request to customers, encouraging them to respect the shared nature of the space [1].

The phenomenon of customers bringing large office equipment into cafes, known locally as “cagongjok,” has become more pronounced in recent years. This trend has been fueled by the shift toward remote and hybrid work models, as well as limited availability and rising costs of office space in urban centers like Seoul. The coffee chain has grown significantly in South Korea since its first store opened in 1999 and now operates over 2,050 locations across the country [1].

Academic observers have noted that the use of cafes as workspaces is not new in South Korea. The country has a long tradition of gathering in tea rooms for intellectual and social purposes. However, the recent surge in remote work, particularly in the wake of the pandemic, has amplified the trend, leading some to take it to extremes by bringing in full office setups [1].

Starbucks South Korea is owned by E-Mart Inc. and continues to operate under Starbucks’ global brand guidelines while adapting to local market conditions. The company has not yet indicated whether it will enforce the policy with penalties, but the message is clear: it aims to manage the use of its spaces in a way that supports a diverse range of customer needs, from casual diners to professionals seeking a quiet workspace [1].

The shift also reflects broader challenges faced by public spaces in adapting to the evolving nature of work and social interaction. As more companies reduce their reliance on traditional office spaces, the demand for alternative work environments is likely to continue. Starbucks’ approach highlights the need for businesses to strike a balance between accommodating these changing habits and preserving the original purpose of their establishments [1].

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