According to the online shopping site TMON (www.tmon.co.kr), sales of exercising tools, also known as ‘New Year’s resolution products’, increased 51 percent compared to the same period last year. (Image : Yonhap)
SEOUL, Jan.26 (Korea Bizwire) – More consumers seem to be trying to save money by teaching themselves new skills in the new year.
According to the online shopping site TMON (www.tmon.co.kr), sales of exercising tools, also known as ‘New Year’s resolution products’, increased 51 percent compared to the same period last year.
Sales of steppers jumped 2.7 times, and yoga mats and weights (including push-up bars) showed sales increases of 51 percent and 32 percent respectively.
In contrast, sales of yoga and Pilates classes only increased by 10 percent.
Another ‘New Year’s resolution product’ gaining popularity is language tutoring packages that help customers study a foreign language by themselves.
The sales of online language courses took a dramatic jump, with a six-fold increase compared to last year.
TMON officials note that the increase in sales of certain products was not just a coincidence. “Gym memberships usually cost at least 100,000 won per month; but by purchasing a 39,000 won stepper, 12,000 won yoga mat and 7,900 won push-up bar, people can exercise by themselves at home. Also, enrolling at an English academy is expensive compared to online language courses, which start at around 200,000 won. The economical prices are pushing consumers to make another New Year’s resolution; keeping their New Year’s resolutions on their own,” said a TMON representative.
By Francine Jung (francine.jung@kobizmedia.co.kr)
