Original Source
Stock Market Boom Revives Consumer Confidence; Iran War Slows Convenience Stores, Department Stores Thrive
Stock Market Boom and Revived Consumer Confidence
Following the inauguration of the Lee Jae-myung administration this year, the KOSPI index surpassed 6000, reaching record highs and stimulating consumer confidence. This led to increased sales at both convenience stores and department stores. Notably, Seven Eleven's dessert sales for January-February surged by 407%, with high-end ice cream and whiskey sales also increasing by 31% and 51% respectively. Industry analysis suggests that a bolstered stock market led to more frequent dining out and social gatherings, driving sales for these categories.
Impact of the Iran War on Consumption Patterns
The Iran War, which began earlier this month, introduced subtle shifts in consumer patterns. Convenience store sales growth tended to slow down after the conflict, yet department store consumption remained robust. Lotte Department Store reported a year-on-year increase of 25% in luxury goods and 45% in luxury jewelry sales for January-February, with March figures still showing strong growth at 25% and 35% respectively. This indicates that consumers with increased financial liquidity continue to purchase high-value items despite external factors like the war.
*Source: v.daum.net (2026-03-18)*



