Feeling lonely in Seoul? Try a convenience store for the mind

Seoul is operating 19 community spaces where foreign residents and other citizens experiencing loneliness can talk with others, assess their emotional well-being and receive information about counseling and support services. Called Seoul Maeum Convenience Stores, the facilities are not retail stores but informal spaces designed for people seeking emotional support or social connection. “Maeum” means mind or heart in Korean. Visitors can take a self-assessment on loneliness, speak with staff or p