코로나19 여파, 건강한 실내 활동 위해 '헬스케어' 제품 판매 증가
During a global pandemic, maintaining a healthy lifestyle or keeping up with exercise routines can be challenging. With people hesitant to visit public places like the gym, South Korea has been seeing sales of healthcare appliances and equipment double since the Covid-19 broke out.
A shift in lifestyle in the Covid-19 era?
Choi Won-jong reports.
It is no secret that the global pandemic has changed the way we go about our daily lives. But it has also had an impact on consumer choice - particularly with healthcare appliances in South Korea.
One product that has proven popular during the COVID-19 pandemic,...is the massage chair.
And one of Korea's largest manufacturers of massage chairs says total sales have increased by fifty-percent compared to last year.
"Our sales have doubled ever since COVID-19 first broke out, and are likely to increase. I think many people are hesitant to be outside these days, so instead they focus on their health by purchasing things like massage chairs."
Last year, a large portion of household appliance sales were related to air purifiers due to fine dust and yellow dust issues. But this year, healthcare and lifestyle appliances like massage chairs, scalp massagers, and exercise equipment have come to the forefront of consumer spending.
It's not just massage chairs that have been in demand during this COVID-19 outbreak. According to one of Korea's largest retailers, sales of exercise equipment are up 28% compared to this time last year.
Under the governments' restrictions to close gyms and outdoor facilities, many have shifted their focus on exercising at home.
One gym-goer who came to purchase a workout wristband said he feels much safer exercising at home.
"I feel uncomfortable going to places like the gym to work out because there are many people, so I now exercise at home instead."
As the influence of COVID-19 continues to have impact on society, more people will spend time indoors...suggesting that the demand for health care appliances is expected to grow.
Choi Won-jong, Arirang News