Ministry of Trade Industry and Resources

The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources (MOTIR, Minister JK Kim) announced that total sales at 26 major retailers (15 brick-and-mortar retailers and 11 online retailers) in May 2026 rose 9.0 percent year-on-year, with offline sales up 9.3 percent and online sales up 8.8 percent.

Offline sales increased at department stores (up 24.5 percent) and convenience stores (up 5.9 percent), while hypermarkets (down 5.1 percent) and super supermarkets (SSMs) (down 8.0 percent) declined. Department stores and convenience stores extended their growth streaks to 11 consecutive months since July 2025.

Department store sales increased across all categories, including premium international brands, fashion and apparel, and accessories, as foreign tourist visits increased and consumer sentiment improved. Convenience store sales also rose, as early-summer weather boosted sales of beverages and other processed foods, while higher customer traffic lifted non-food sales, including household goods.

Hypermarket sales declined despite higher sales of home appliances, cultural goods, and fashion items during May, Family Month, as sales of food, their core category, remained sluggish. SSM sales also fell for a sixth consecutive month as food sales stayed weak.

Online sales posted steady growth, supported by improved consumer sentiment, Family Month demand, and food demand, with gains led by home appliances, children’s products, food, and services.

Sales shares by channel were 58.6 percent for online retailers, 16.7 percent for department stores, 14.8 percent for convenience stores, 8.1 percent for hypermarkets, and 1.8 percent for SSMs.