[THE INVESTOR] The government launched a nationwide shopping event on Sept. 29, with planned promotions, cultural and entertainment events.

The massive shopping campaign called “Korea Sale Festa” runs until Oct. 9, involving major retailers, manufacturers and traditional markets, while cultural and entertainment programs for foreign travelers will be held throughout October. 

The shopping festival is jointly hosted by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism to tie up the retail industry with tourism and cultural sectors to unleash pent-up demands in time with the major Chinese holiday season.

A total of 249 retailers, manufacturers and online malls provide discounts and promotions at 59,000 stores across the nation, offering much wider options compared with last year’s fall shopping season when “Korea Black Friday” and “Korea Grand Sale” were held between September and October.

Among the big names are Samsung Electronics, LG Electronics, Hyundai Motor, AmorePacific and LG Household & Health Care.

About 400 traditional markets nationwide will hold various events and unique festivals in October to catch the eyes of visitors and spur the local economy.

(theinvestor@heraldcorp.com)