Lotte Department Store has launched a unique pop-up shop at the Jamsil Lotte World Mall, transforming the first-floor Atrium into an immersive experience featuring the beloved cartoon characters Tom and Jerry. This special event, titled ‘Tom and Jerry Hanok Grand Chase,’ runs until October 26th and offers visitors a journey back in time to the Joseon Dynasty.
A Blend of Classic Animation and Korean Tradition
The pop-up store is designed as an experiential space where Tom and Jerry embark on a chase set against a backdrop of traditional Korean architecture, known as Hanok. The environment meticulously incorporates elements characteristic of Hanok buildings, such as tiled roofs (giwa), spacious wooden halls (daecheongmaru), courtyards, and traditional earthenware pots (jangdokdae). This fusion creates a visually rich and culturally engaging atmosphere for visitors.
Exclusive Merchandise and Themed Products
A wide array of approximately 220 different products are available at the pop-up, including newly developed items and limited-edition merchandise. The standout product is the ‘K-Tom and Jerry Bongseong-in,’ a collection of plush toys featuring Tom and Jerry dressed in traditional Korean attire (Hanbok). These collectible items come in various sizes, from keychains to medium-sized figures, catering to different preferences.
The merchandise line extends to include:
- Tom and Jerry dolls wearing Hanbok, representing a Korean edition of the characters.
- Random keychains shaped like rice cakes (tteok) and featuring Tom and Jerry.
- Customizable keychains, allowing visitors to mix and match keycaps and body parts to create their own unique designs.
Many of these exclusive items feature custom graphics created specifically for this pop-up event, adding to their appeal and collectibility. The use of these bespoke designs underscores the event’s commitment to offering something novel and exclusive to attendees.
Interactive Experiences and Photo Opportunities
Beyond the merchandise, the ‘Tom and Jerry Hanok Grand Chase’ pop-up offers several interactive elements designed to engage visitors directly. The space itself is adorned with themed photo zones, encouraging guests to capture memorable moments within the Hanok setting.
A key interactive program is ‘Jerry’s Cheese Stamp Rally.’ This engaging activity involves visitors completing three distinct missions within the pop-up. Upon successfully collecting three stamps, participants are rewarded with a special ‘Tom and Jerry Banana’ – an item created exclusively for the event. This rally adds an element of playful competition and provides a tangible reward for participation, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
A Unique Cultural Encounter
Yoon Hyung-jin, head of the fashion division at Lotte Department Store, explained the concept behind the pop-up. “We planned this event to provide fresh enjoyment to customers of all ages by showcasing the globally popular IP, Tom and Jerry, in a unique space inspired by Hanok,” he stated. “We aim to offer an unforgettable and distinctive summer experience to both domestic and international visitors coming to Jamsil.”
The initiative aims to leverage the universal appeal of Tom and Jerry while introducing them to a distinctively Korean cultural context. By integrating the characters into a traditional Hanok setting, the event seeks to offer a novel form of entertainment that is both familiar and culturally enriching. The combination of popular characters, traditional aesthetics, exclusive merchandise, and interactive activities positions the pop-up as a must-visit destination for families and fans alike during its limited run.
Event Details
The ‘Tom and Jerry Hanok Grand Chase’ pop-up store is located at the Atrium on the first floor of the Jamsil Lotte World Mall. It is open until October 26th. Visitors can explore the themed environment, purchase exclusive merchandise, and participate in interactive games and activities.
Location and Dates
- Venue: Jamsil Lotte World Mall, 1st Floor Atrium
- Duration: Until October 26th
This event represents a creative collaboration, bringing together iconic animation and traditional Korean heritage to create a memorable experience for a diverse audience. The department store hopes this unique approach will attract a broad range of customers, offering them a delightful and culturally immersive outing.
