Among young people in Korea, so-called "fake delivery apps" that allow users to experience the ordering process without actually spending money are gaining popularity.
These platforms allow users to select food and go through the ordering process in exactly the same way as on regular food delivery apps, but no actual food is delivered and no payment is made. Nevertheless, users report that they derive a psychological satisfaction similar to real consumption, and the response has been positive.
Users can experience the payment process without placing an actual order and check the saved costs and calories. Screenshot of the 'Eumsik Anwayo' app.
원본보기 아이콘Users can select virtual restaurants and menu items, add them to their shopping cart, enter their address and contact information, and proceed to payment. Orders can be placed even without entering address or contact information.
Once the order is completed, the restaurant receives the order and a virtual delivery driver is assigned. The estimated delivery time and real-time delivery route are displayed, just like a real delivery app. In the end, users are notified that the food has "arrived" and can check how much money and how many calories they saved by not actually ordering.
There are also virtual shopping malls designed to curb the urge for impulse purchases. In April, X (formerly Twitter) user 'Bbut' launched "Sajasa," a website where users can add products to their shopping cart, make virtual payments, and even write reviews, just like on a real online shopping mall.
However, the items for sale are things you would never find in real life. For example, the electronics section features a "Space-Time Leap Device" priced at 10 million won. Users leave witty reviews such as, "Mine was defective. It just buzzes, and when I set it to time-slip to the Joseon Dynasty, I ended up in the age of dinosaurs and got into a traffic accident with a Brachiosaurus," and "I bought it to stop Elon Musk from buying Twitter, but a warning popped up. So now I just smack him on the back of the head every day and run away. Highly recommended."
Virtual shopping malls that can be used like real shopping malls are gaining popularity. Screenshot of the Sajasa site
원본보기 아이콘This site was inspired by "Kaukau," a virtual shopping mall that first gained attention in Japan. "Kaukau" became popular for offering outlandish virtual products like "Invisible Cloak" and "Calorie-Negative Fried Foods," as well as supporting virtual payments and review writing.
This phenomenon is also drawing attention internationally. On June 24 (local time), The Times reported, "Fake delivery apps are trending among Korea's Gen Z," adding that "dopamine sites" that provide enjoyment without financial, caloric, or health burdens are spreading.
Psychology journal Psychology Today explained, "The pleasure felt during the anticipation of a purchase is maintained, but there is no actual consumption," and added that such apps can help relieve stress and loneliness, and may serve as behavioral substitutes that help reduce impulse buying and overspending.
Real Spending vs Fake Dopamine
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Imaginative Items Most Likely to Sell Out Instantly
Pick the imaginary item you think would sell out first if it was listed in a fake shopping mall.
You are a time-saving dopamine-seeker. You want to erase the stress of commuting right at your front door.
You are a cringe-eraser dopamine-seeker. Peaceful sleep is more important to you than late-night regrets.
You are a "mukbang defense" dopamine-seeker. You can't give up good food, but you wish the calories went to someone else.
You are an imagination-overdrive dopamine-seeker. You're ready to turn the comments section into a new product development lab.
Reviews are saved along with your selected option. If you enter one before choosing, it will be saved together.
Real Spending vs Fake Dopamine Balance Game
You are a real spender. Even the sound of opening a package is part of the consumption experience for you.
You are a virtual life strategist. You're a master of vicarious satisfaction, saving both your wallet and your stomach.
You are a bittersweet reality empathizer. Even in small pranks during tough times, you sense the fatigue of the era.
You are a trend-spotter. If fake shopping carts become content, they're fun enough for you.
You are a reality-checker. Vicarious satisfaction is temporary; you believe true desire always returns.
What’s Your Dopamine Charging Station?
Your self-control is top-notch. You excel at relieving stress through means other than spending.
You are a light rewarder. You lift your mood with small purchases—very practical!
You are a serious recharger. When stress builds up, your shopping cart notices first.
You are a "bankrupt alarm" type. The you before and after payment are often at odds.
You are a positive substitution believer. You think imaginary shopping alone can suppress impulses.
You are a pragmatic realist. Fake orders are just the trailer, real delivery is the main event.
You are wary of amplified desires. Fake menus only awaken your real appetite.
Real-Time Results Board
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