In a move that has stirred conversation both locally and internationally, Starbucks in South Korea has introduced a new policy aimed at creating a more balanced and comfortable environment for its customers. The company announced that large gadgets and bulky equipment will no longer be allowed inside its stores in the country.
The decision specifically targets items such as desktop computers, printers, large monitors, and even portable partition walls that some customers had been bringing into cafés. While laptops, tablets, and other small portable devices remain welcome, Starbucks aims to curb what has become a growing cultural phenomenon in South Korea, known as "cagongjok".
This term, unique to Korean slang, describes individuals who set up elaborate workstations in coffee shops and occupy the space for hours — sometimes the entire day — while ordering minimal refreshments. These setups often include multiple screens, external keyboards, printers, and even personal lighting equipment. Although this trend has been part of the country’s café culture for years, it has increasingly drawn criticism for monopolizing tables and reducing seating availability for other customers.
According to Starbucks Korea, the goal is not to discourage people from working or studying in their cafés, but rather to ensure a fairer distribution of space. By limiting large devices, the company hopes to foster a more comfortable atmosphere for everyone — from remote workers and students to those simply stopping by for a coffee break.
The new rule is already being implemented in multiple locations across the country, with visible signs reminding customers of the policy. Store staff have been instructed to politely inform guests about the change and request that oversized gadgets be left at home.
Reactions to the announcement have been mixed. Many customers support the initiative, saying it will help keep tables available for those who want to enjoy their coffee without feeling like they’ve entered a co-working hub. They also argue that the change will restore the relaxed social vibe that cafés were originally intended to offer. On the other hand, some see the ban as a restriction on personal freedom, especially in a society where cafés have long been considered a “third place” between home and the office.
The situation in South Korea reflects a broader question that coffee chains around the world may soon have to face: how to balance the needs of a diverse customer base in an era of remote work. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the trend of working from anywhere, and coffee shops became an obvious choice for many. However, as the lines blur between public and work spaces, businesses are looking for ways to maintain profitability, manage customer flow, and uphold their brand image.
Whether this policy will spread to other markets remains to be seen. For now, Starbucks in South Korea is taking a firm stance: coffee shops should be welcoming spaces for all, not private offices filled with bulky equipment. The company’s message is clear — bring your laptop if you wish, but leave the printer and desktop computer at home.
This move may influence how other café chains, both in Korea and abroad, approach their own policies in the future. And for customers, it serves as a reminder that a shared space comes with shared responsibility — ensuring that everyone can enjoy it equally.
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