Overcome Chun-gon-jeung with Coffee and Oil at Gwangju Shinsegae

As temperatures have risen sharply recently, many people are complaining of drowsiness and lethargy after meals. This so-called spring fatigue mainly occurs between April and May. When your eyelids feel as heavy as lead and drowsiness overwhelms you, what items can help you overcome it?

Located on the basement level 1 of the main building of Gwangju Shinsegae is ‘Yukgak Coffee,’ known for its signature menu item, Coconut Coffee. Yukgak Coffee is popular not only among customers but also among department store employees as a ‘coffee hotspot.’ Gwangju Shinsegae introduced Yukgak Coffee in 2021 to promote this native brand, which originated locally, to a wider range of consumers.

Yukgak Coffee consistently gains popularity by offering its signature Coconut Coffee as well as drip coffee made by blending beans from Colombia and Guatemala and brewing them in a hand-drip style. As it became known that they use high-quality beans, many customers visit just to purchase the beans.

The Joara Single Origin (Ethiopia Decaf) beans, which offer a luxurious dark chocolate flavor, are sold at 19,000 KRW for 200 grams, while the Wilson Blend beans, popular for their nutty flavor followed by a sweet and sour taste, are sold at 17,000 KRW for 200 grams.

Herbal oils that invigorate tired daily life are also useful for chasing away spring fatigue. ‘Just,’ a Swiss herbal oil brand with a 90-year tradition, can be found on the 8th floor of the main building of Gwangju Shinsegae. They produce a variety of health and beauty products, from familiar items like hand creams and shower gels to herbal oils. Among these, the Just Guduchi Roll-On (10ml, 46,000 KRW) herbal oil, made from ingredients such as Guduchi fruit, rosemary, and lime, provides vitality to those struggling with spring fatigue. Simply apply the herbal oil lightly behind the temples or ears after opening, and the cool sensation along with the pleasant aroma helps you easily overcome drowsiness.

Just store is running a promotion until the 30th where customers who purchase three Guduchi Roll-On herbal oils will receive one additional item for free.

Nespresso on the 8th floor of Gwangju Shinsegae’s main building is holding an event until the 21st where customers who purchase a Vertuo machine and capsules together will receive two mugs as a gift. This event is on a first-come, first-served basis and may end early once supplies run out.

Kim Young-min, head of the food team at Gwangju Shinsegae, said, “We hope Yukgak Coffee, Nespresso, and Just herbal oils will provide vitality to consumers tired from spring fatigue,” adding, “Gwangju Shinsegae will continue to strive to bring joy and energy to customers through various promotions.”

Shin Dong-ho, Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters bless4ya@asiae.co.kr