Mar 4 • 05:19 UTC 🇰🇷 Korea Hankyoreh (KR)

Filling in the 'Five Elements'... The ‘Fortune Telling and Shamanism’ Marketing Sweeping the Retail Industry

The retail and beauty industries in South Korea are increasingly adopting fortune-telling and shamanism themes in their marketing strategies due to the growing popularity of related content.

In South Korea, the rise of fortune-telling and shamanism content has significantly influenced the marketing strategies within the retail and beauty sectors. This trend has shifted from mere interest in astrology to being recognized as a considerable consumer behavior pattern. Popular content, such as Disney Plus's survival show 'Destiny War 49', has propelled the demand for products aligned with these themes, making them a staple in marketing campaigns. Retailers like Daiso have started promotion events focused on feng shui, offering items designed to enhance positive energy in living spaces while warding off negativity.

The trend has expanded to the fashion and beauty industries, where brands are utilizing astrological insights as part of their marketing techniques. A makeup brand, Amelie, recently executed a promotion where consumers could input their birth date to receive personalized product recommendations based on analyzed 'deficiencies' in their five elements. For instance, if someone lacks 'fire' energy, they would be shown warm-toned products. This interactive and enjoyable approach is cleverly designed to encourage purchases by tying personal astrological insights to product offerings. Additionally, crystal bracelets that promise to attract good fortune have gained traction on social media platforms, exacerbated by testimonials claiming increased business opportunities and wealth after wearing them.

Moreover, the phenomenon is diversifying into physical experiential services where customers can engage more directly with these concepts. Notably, Hyundai Department Store recently debuted a pop-up store named 'Cheongwoldang', featuring a webtoon-style fortune-telling service that allows visitors to experience traditional fortune-telling, annual fortunes, relationship compatibility readings, and more through kiosks. As these marketing strategies converge traditional beliefs with modern consumer culture, the implications present a fascinating intersection of spirituality and commerce in contemporary South Korean retail.

📡 Similar Coverage