Lotte Duty Free launches innovative authentication and payment service at Gimpo Airport store

Claiming a first in the duty-free industry, Lotte Duty Free has launched a biometric authentication and payment service based on the palm vein at its Gimpo Airport branch.

With this service, Korean customers can purchase duty-free products by simply entering their mobile phone number and authenticating their palm vein, eliminating the need to present their passport, boarding pass, or payment card. This is expected to reduce payment waiting times and significantly improve customer convenience.

This service was implemented through the Korea Customs Service's related system improvements and in collaboration with Korea Airports Corporation. Customers register their palm vein information at a kiosk in the Gimpo Airport International Terminal, and Lotte Duty Free uses this information to verify their identity and receive boarding information, facilitating the purchase process. Payment cards can be registered through the Korea Airports Corporation's "Smart Airport" application.

To celebrate the launch of this service, Lotte Duty Free is offering a KRW5,000 (US$4) discount to customers who spend over US$100 at its Gimpo Airport branch until September 30. Korea Airports Corporation will also hold a raffle to give away coffee coupons to customers who register their payment cards on the Smart Airport app until October 13.

Based on customer satisfaction, the service will be expanded to Gimhae Airport.

A Lotte Duty Free representative stated, "With the introduction of biometric authentication and payment services, we expect the convenience of purchasing for customers at Gimpo Airport duty free shops to significantly improve. We will continue to lead the digital transformation of the duty free industry and introduce various innovative services that enhance the customer experience."