Core Insights - South Korea experienced record high temperatures followed by heavy rainfall in July, leading to increased consumer preference for air-conditioned indoor activities, boosting one-stop shopping trends and significantly enhancing sales in department stores and discount malls [1][4] Retail Performance - From July 1 to 17, foot traffic in major retailers increased significantly compared to the same period last year: Lotte Department Store saw a 10% increase, Shinsegae Department Store and Hyundai Department Store reported increases of 14% and 13% respectively, with sales rising by 11.1% and 10.7% [1] - Hyundai's discount shopping centers with underground parking experienced a sales increase of 21.2% [1] - Family consumption notably drove growth in dining sales, with Lotte's dining revenue up by 10%, and Shinsegae and Hyundai's dining revenues increasing by 15.8% and 12.4% respectively [1] Seasonal Product Performance - Seasonal product categories showed strong sales, with Lotte's swimwear sales up by 15% due to government tax incentives for cultural activities, and home appliance sales increasing by 10% driven by energy tax rebates [1] - New World Department Store reported a 33.7% increase in sales for bedding products [2] - Modern Department Store saw a 23.9% increase in sportswear sales and an 18.8% increase in home living products [3] Marketing and Events - Retailers launched summer-themed immersive experiences to capitalize on foot traffic, with Lotte Department Store planning a "Summer Food Week" and various promotional events [3] - New World Group introduced a pop-up store for surfing gear and hosted an art exhibition featuring over 100 summer-themed artworks [3] - Hyundai Department Store created a Hawaiian resort-themed space, with activities running until August 21, including a tropical market selling products from 65 participating brands [3] Weather Impact - The early onset and prolonged duration of high temperatures in South Korea have led to unpredictable weather patterns, prompting retailers to adopt a "weather-independent leisure strategy" to redefine shopping centers as cool and distinctive summer leisure destinations [4]