Lotte Department Store Gwangju Branch Offers Free 'Cool Beverages' to Taxi Drivers Amid Heatwave

Free Ice Water and Beverages Offered
Encouraging Safe Driving Amid Heat and Fatigue

Amid a record-breaking heatwave with temperatures hovering above 40 degrees Celsius every day, Lotte Department Store Gwangju Branch is drawing attention for operating a 'Cool Beverage Service' for taxi drivers.

Starting from 2 PM—when the heat peaks—Lotte Department Store Gwangju Branch has been providing free ice water and beverages to taxi drivers waiting in front of the main entrance on the first floor.

Lotte Department Store Gwangju Branch is providing free ice water and beverages to taxi drivers waiting in front of the main entrance on the first floor of the department store from 2 PM. Provided by Lotte Department Store Gwangju Branch

The purpose is to help drivers, who accumulate fatigue from long hours behind the wheel, cool down and drive safely.

Lee Junho, a taxi driver waiting for passengers in front of the main entrance, said, "I felt exhausted from the intense heat and drowsiness, but receiving a cool drink has given me a real boost. I definitely want to let my fellow drivers know about this."

This service is being recognized as meaningful support that drivers can truly appreciate in the field, rather than merely an event. The program is also being praised for its effectiveness, as it is tailored to the hours of extreme heat.

Previously, Lotte Department Store Gwangju Branch had launched a 'Drowsy Driving Prevention Campaign' targeting taxi drivers, which received a positive response. During that event, an average of 200 to 300 taxi drivers visited each day to receive drinks, candies, and gum, and the space naturally became a place for drivers to connect with one another.

Based on these experiences, the department store expanded its program this year with a focus on heatwave response, offering the 'Cool Beverage Service.'

Kim Daewon, Store Manager of Lotte Department Store Gwangju Branch, said, "Even in this extreme heat, we wanted to offer a brief moment of respite to taxi drivers who transport our customers safely. I hope that a refreshing drink, even for a moment, provides some relaxation and helps with safe driving."

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