SOUTH KOREA. Lotte Duty Free has rolled out a palm-vein payment system at its Gimpo International Airport store, becoming the first duty-free retailer to offer this solution.
The palm-vein authentication technology enables Korean customers to complete transactions by simply entering their mobile number and scanning their palm over a sensor, without the need for a passport, boarding pass or payment card.
This cutting-edge biometric payment system is designed to shorten transaction times and further enhance customer convenience.
The launch was supported by Customs regulatory reforms and strategic cooperation with Korea Airports Corporation.
Once customers enroll their palm-vein information at kiosks in the Gimpo Airport International Terminal, Lotte Duty Free can confirm their identity and boarding status to simplify purchases. Linked payment cards can be registered through the Smart Airport app from Korea Airports Corporation.
To celebrate the launch, the retailer is offering KRW5,000 (US$4) discount to customers spending over US$100 at the Gimpo Airport location until the end of this month.
Korea Airports Corporation is also running a prize draw for customers who register on the Smart Airport app until 13 October, with coffee coupons as prizes.
Plans are underway to bring the service to Gimhae Airport, depending on customer response.
A Lotte Duty Free official said, “With the introduction of the biometric authentication and payment service, we expect the convenience for customers using the Gimpo Airport duty-free store to be greatly enhanced.
“We will continue to lead digital transformation in the duty-free industry and introduce various innovative services that elevate the customer experience.” ✈
