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Lotte Department Store Sogong-dong Main Branch. (Photo: Lotte Shopping) |
[Alpha Biz= Paul Lee] Lotte Department Store has officially apologized for asking customers wearing labor union vests to remove them, promising measures to prevent a recurrence. The apology, issued on December 13 under CEO Jung Hyun-seok’s name, addressed an incident at the Jamsil branch on the evening of December 10.
The department store stated, “We sincerely apologize to the customers who were asked to remove vests bearing slogans (‘body banners’) while attempting to enter the dining area. This was an inappropriate measure, and we regret the discomfort caused.” Lotte added that it would review all customer service processes to ensure similar incidents do not happen again.
The controversy arose when members of the Metalworkers’ Union attempted to enter the Jamsil branch’s basement dining area wearing union vests. Security staff initially requested the removal of the vests, citing potential discomfort to other customers. When union members refused and proceeded, additional staff reportedly reinforced the request.
Videos of the confrontation circulated widely on social media, showing a middle-aged union member arguing with security personnel in the dining area.
In its statement, Lotte Department Store clarified that the request was intended as a preventive measure for customer safety, and that the union members were able to dine without further incident. The store confirmed that direct apologies were made to the individuals involved and pledged to revise its access guidelines, distributing updated protocols to all branches and security contractors to prevent future occurrences.
Alphabiz Reporter Paul Lee(hoondork1977@alphabiz.co.kr)
