South Korean c-store chain deploys first liquor vending machine

Convenience store operator CU has installed a liquor vending machine at South Korea’s Sorak Sunvalley Resort branch in Goseong, Gangwon Province.

The machine works with a mobile app to verify the age of the vending patron. The hi-tech vending system uses a mobile driver’s license available on the identity app PASS for adult authorization. A QR code or barcode scan authorizes the user as an adult.

The vender is stocked with 45 liquor selections (soju among those). CU said it has the first liquor vending machine deployed by a convenience store.

CU is a South Korean convenience store chain operated and owned by BGF Retail. It was formed after FamilyMart's franchise license in South Korea expired. The chain plans to install more liquor vending machines.