Starbucks Overlooking North Korea Becomes a Popular Spot, Attracts 120,000 Visitors

Located just 1.4 kilometers from North Korea at the border, a Starbucks has attracted over 123,000 visitors since its opening on November 29, 2024. Nicknamed the "North Korea View Starbucks," it offers customers a chance to enjoy coffee while gazing at the North Korean landscape. The store sees an average of over 600 visitors daily, with numbers doubling on weekends.
The day of its opening coincided with North Korea launching balloons into South Korean territory, raising safety concerns. Mayor Kim Byung-soo mentioned that while North Korea can see the Starbucks sign, it is unlikely to become a target for attacks.
Many visitors expressed excitement about being able to see North Korea up close. A tourist from Switzerland shared that this was a unique experience as their first visit to Korea was specifically to see this location.