Popular 'Gajeon Imonim', Should We Hire One for Our Home Too?

Sales of Household Helper Products Like Dishwashers and Robot Vacuum Cleaners Soar
Popularity Rises Due to Increased 'Jipkok' from COVID-19 and Holiday Demand

[Asia Economy Reporter Jo In-kyung] As families spend more time at home due to COVID-19, ‘home appliance helpers’ that assist with household hygiene management and reduce housework are selling well. Dishwashers and robot vacuum cleaners have become essentials, while interest is also growing in food waste disposers and massage chairs.

According to Emart on the 3rd, dishwasher sales increased threefold (207.6%) compared to 2019 over the past year. This was the highest sales growth rate among all home appliances. Sales of food waste disposers and robot vacuum cleaners also rose by 155.9% and 10.0%, respectively.

In particular, based on the Chuseok holiday in early October, Emart’s home appliance sales in September and October increased by 23.5% compared to the same period last year. This is analyzed as a significant rise in demand for high-priced home appliances around the holiday season.

At Lotte Hi-Mart, sales of dishwashers and electric ranges increased by 95% and 40%, respectively, from January 1 to 26 this year. Food waste disposers sold nine times (800%) more during the same period. Lim Young-seok, head of Lotte Hi-Mart’s Living Team 2, explained, "Kitchen appliances such as dishwashers are expected to continue growing this year," adding, "Home appliances that provide practical help in reducing housework are popular ahead of the holidays."

On Gmarket, vacuum cleaner sales increased by 49% during the last week of January (January 25?31) compared to the same period last year. Among these, robot vacuum cleaners rose by 178%.

The distribution industry is capitalizing on this rising popularity by holding discount events targeting Lunar New Year gift demand. Emart is holding the ‘Heartfelt Home Appliance Gift Fair’ until the 15th, featuring essential home appliances for the ‘stay-at-home era’ and ‘filial piety appliances.’ Electrolux dishwashers are discounted by up to 400,000 KRW, and food waste disposers are sold at special prices.

At Lotte Hi-Mart, customers who purchase both Samsung Electronics’ 3-burner and 1-burner electric ranges by the end of this month will receive 250,000 L.Points, and those who buy LG Electronics electric ranges with promotional cards by the 2nd of next month will get up to 100,000 KRW cashback. Gmarket and Auction are holding a ‘Vacuum Cleaner Brand Alliance’ event until the 14th, offering 70 popular products at discounts of up to 30%.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.