Seoul, South Korea — In the bustling neighborhood of Daechi, coffee shops are facing a growing challenge as the phenomenon of “Cagongjok,” a term referred to the young individuals who occupy cafes to study or work, becomes increasingly prevalent. With high rents and competition for space, cafe owners are grappling with how to balance accommodating these long-term customers while maintaining a comfortable environment for all patrons.

Hyun Sung-joo, a 33-year-old cafe owner, recently encountered a situation that exemplified the dilemma. One customer set up an extensive workspace for themselves that included dual laptops and a six-port power strip, consuming valuable seating for an entire day. “I had to block off the power outlets,” Hyun noted, emphasizing the struggle of keeping his business afloat amidst such intense use of space.

Cafes in South Korea, particularly in student-heavy districts, are witnessing a trend much distinct from those in Western countries. While cafes in places like the UK usually see a mix of socializers and students, South Korean establishments are becoming dominated by Cagongjok, who often establish elaborate setups in their quest for the perfect study environment.

To address issues arising from this trend, Starbucks Korea has implemented new guidelines to curb extreme behaviors. These regulations aim to prevent individuals from setting up bulky workstations, leaving their tables unattended for hours, or even constructing partitions for privacy. According to Starbucks, the intent is not to eject customers but to offer guidance, fostering a more harmonious atmosphere.

Despite the new measures, regular patrons of Starbucks still utilize the space for studying. An 18-year-old student shared her routine of studying from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m., sometimes leaving her materials unattended. While observations of abandoned setups have decreased since the August guidelines were issued, many still leave their belongings while stepping away for meals.

Public reaction to Starbucks’ initiative has been mixed. Many welcome the guidelines, expressing relief at the restoration of normal usage patterns in cafes. Patrons who prefer socializing and relaxing find it increasingly difficult to navigate through crowds of studious customers. However, not all responses have been positive, with some criticizing the changes as overly strict, feeling that the company’s previous open approach has been forsaken.

This broader discussion about the role of cafes in South Korean culture is echoing a sentiment that has been growing since the rise of Cagongjok nearly a decade ago. The increase in coffee shops—nearly 100,000 across the country—has meant more choices for students and workers but has also led to increased competition for seating. A recent survey indicated that approximately 70% of Gen Z job seekers prefer studying in cafes at least once a week.

In navigating the challenges posed by seat monopolization, some independent cafe owners have adopted unique strategies. For instance, Kim, a Jeonju cafe owner who prefers to remain anonymous, instituted a “No Study Zone” to combat complaints about patrons overextending their use of space. He explained that some customers would occupy tables meant for many and leave for extended periods, creating an imbalance. His cafe now allows only limited studying hours, reserving open seating for casual customers.

Cultural analysts attribute this trend to South Korea’s high-pressure environment, where homes may not always provide a conducive atmosphere for studying. For some, like Yu-jin Mo, a 29-year-old who grew up in foster care, cafes offer more than just a place to work or study; they provide a sense of safety and community. Yu-jin explained her preference for cafes over libraries, where she felt stifled instead of relaxed.

Experts suggest that more inclusive public spaces are crucial to accommodate the demands of contemporary society. Professor Choi Ra-young of Ansan University advocates for creating environments that allow young people to study in cafes without impacting others negatively. As this cultural phenomenon continues to evolve, finding solutions that satisfy both cafe owners and Cagongjok customers remains imperative.

Through navigating these emerging challenges, the landscape of cafe culture in South Korea may soon shift, leading to an atmosphere that balances the unique demands of community spaces with the necessity for personal study.