Daechi-dong Convenience Stores: A Haven for Time-Starved Students

 

Main Text

On the afternoon of the 19th, sixth graders Kim and Park, students at Daedo Elementary School, visited a convenience store in Daechi-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul. "Boss, I got a lot of pocket money for Chuseok! Play my favorite song at the store!" they exclaimed, showing their familiarity with the store owner, Mr. A. Laughing, he indulged their playful requests, even handing out prepared chocolates.

Mr. A left his corporate job two years ago and opened the convenience store in Daechi-dong, where he now spends 11 hours a day, from 1 PM to midnight. Although it’s been only two years, he has become a familiar face in the academic hub of Daechi-dong. During the interview, about 20 students stopped by the store, and Mr. A exchanged greetings and casual conversations with most of them.

Mr. A observes Daechi-dong students eating "street meals" daily. These students, pressed for time, often replace proper meals with convenience store food. This phenomenon was observed in five different convenience stores in the area, where elementary and middle school students gathered to have quick meals.

For the children, the convenience store is more than just a place to grab food—it’s their "only playground," Mr. A explained. "These kids don’t lack money; they lack time. Here, they can meet friends, take a moment to themselves, or do what they can’t at school or academies," he said.

Park, one of the students visiting the store, stayed even after finishing her ramen, chatting with Mr. A and playing rock-paper-scissors. Other groups played mobile games or danced to music. "From 4 PM to 10 PM, I go to tutoring and academies back-to-back. This is my only break," Park said. "The convenience store feels more comfortable than home."

Mr. A attributes his connection with the students not just to his fondness for them but also to their need for attention. One memorable student for Mr. A was a talented young artist. "This student, who rarely received recognition for their drawings, came to me one day and proudly showed their work," he recalled. "All I did was show a little interest in what they cared about, and we became close almost instantly."

Mr. A believes every child has unique strengths. "Some kids are exceptionally good at speaking or building relationships," he said. "However, in Daechi-dong’s academic grind, they rarely get opportunities to discover themselves, nor do adults help them. It’s heartbreaking." He concluded, "I hope these kids can explore their interests and embrace their childlike curiosity."

A. Write the correct word for each definition.

community | attention | playground | tutoring | explore

1. A group of people living or interacting in the same area: __________
2. Focused care or interest given to someone: __________
3. A space where children play: __________
4. Private or small group lessons to improve in a subject: __________
5. To look for or learn about something new: __________

B. Read the questions and discuss with your teacher.

1. Why do you think convenience stores in Daechi-dong are so important for students?
2. Have you ever had a place you considered more comfortable than home? What made it special?
3. What do you think about the idea of kids lacking time but not money?
4. If you were a student like Park, how would you use your only break time?
5. How can adults, like Mr. A, help students feel valued and supported?

C. Individual Research

Think about how spaces like convenience stores can influence children’s well-being. Write two pros and two cons of convenience stores as a gathering place for kids.

Pros:

1. They provide a safe and accessible place for children to take breaks.
2. They encourage social interaction among peers.

Cons:

1. Reliance on quick, unhealthy meals instead of proper nutrition.
2. Limited opportunities for physical activity or creativity.

Answer Key

A.

1. community
2. attention
3. playground
4. tutoring
5. explore

B.

1. They serve as a rare place for students to relax, meet friends, and take a break from their packed schedules.
2. Yes, the library, for example, because it’s quiet and helps me focus. (Personalized answers may vary.)
3. It reflects the intense academic culture where children prioritize studies over leisure, leaving little time for personal development.
4. I would try to relax, talk with friends, or enjoy a small activity like reading or drawing to recharge.
5. Adults can show interest in their hobbies, listen to their thoughts, and provide a welcoming space where they feel safe.