This photo provided by The Shilla Seoul shows its apple mango bingsu.
SEOUL, July 18 (Korea Bizwire) — The apple mango bingsu served at luxury hotels in Seoul have seen a sales boost this year despite recent price hikes, largely led by consumers from the “MZ generation,” a Korean term referring to those aged between late 10s and 30s.
Bingsu is a traditional dessert made up of shaved ice and an array of toppings.
Lotte Hotel Seoul‘s sales of apple mango bingsu jumped by 15 percent from last year and more than 60 percent from 2020. The price currently stands at 88,000 won (US$66.87), up 47 percent from last year.
Four Seasons Hotel Seoul raised the price of Jeju Apple Mango Bingsu to 96,000 won, up 41 percent from last year, but has been selling five times more than other bingsu products.
“The earlier monsoon season, compared to the previous year and its extension has led to higher demand for bingsu since mid-June,” an official at Four Seasons Hotel Seoul said.
Josun Hotel and Resort reported a 30 percent increase in sales of apple mango bingsu (65,000 won) from last year.
Industry sources believe that consumers from the MZ generation, who prefer to spend on experiences, have spearheaded the sales boost.
“The MZ generation focuses on the consumption of things that they believe are valuable and enjoys Instagram and social media,” said an official at Hotel Shilla. “The bingsu cater to their desire to post pretty photos of desserts on Instagram.”
H. M. Kang (hmkang@koreabizwire.com)
