Brewing Bonds: How a Grandfather’s Daily Ritual Connected a Community

As we approach International Coffee Day, a story from Starbucks Korea reminds us of the profound connections that coffee can foster within communities. The tale centers around a beloved grandfather whose daily visits to a Starbucks store in Seoul created lasting bonds with partners and customers.

At over ninety years old, the grandfather visited the Starbucks Dongnimmun Station store every weekday at 3 PM for an espresso, a cup of water, and a piece of coffee candy. This daily ritual was more than just a routine; it was a source of joy and comfort for him. Since the store's opening in 2018, it became a second home, a place where he could unwind and connect with others. Partners taught him how to use a Starbucks card, allowing him to collect e-frequency points for a planner each year, turning a simple transaction into a meaningful experience.

In early April, the grandfather passed away and his granddaughter returned to the store to honor his memory by ordering an espresso using his Starbucks card. When she asked the partner if they remembered her grandfather, the response was immediate: "Of course, he's a well-known figure here at Starbucks Dongnimmun Station." The connection between the grandfather and the store was evident, showing how significant a role he played in the community.

Community and Connection

The granddaughter later discovered that the Dongnimmun Station store had recently been renovated to support descendants of national merit honorees. This connection resonated with her and deepened her appreciation for the store. In a letter shared with Starbucks Korea, she expressed gratitude not just for the happy memories but also for the care shown to her grandfather in his final days.  Kwon Ji-sun, the supervisor at Dongnimmun Station store, reflected on the impact of the grandfather’s presence, stating that his absence had been felt. The partners at the store pledged to honor his memory, recognizing how such connections enrich their community.

At Starbucks community and connection are core to our brand values. The Dongnimmun Station store is one of nine Community Stores in Korea, where a portion of sales—300 KRW per item—goes to supporting local initiatives, including scholarships for descendants of national heroes. Since 2015, Starbucks Korea has allocated 866 million KRW in scholarships to 433 descendants, reaffirming the market’s commitment to honoring those who have served the nation.

As we celebrate International Coffee Day, we remember the heartwarming connections that are made over coffee in our communities. Each cup of coffee can be a bridge to shared memories, heartfelt connections, and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of those around us.