Global anime streaming platform Crunchyroll has opened a pop-up store in Hongdae, Seoul, to commemorate the official launch of its service in South Korea.
Crunchyroll has been welcoming local anime fans at its "Crunchyroll Festival Korea 2026" pop-up store at AK Plaza Hongdae in Seoul since October 24.
Organized as part of an offline festival celebrating the official start of South Korean service, the event features photo zones, event booths, and a merch shop themed around popular anime. Around 1,600 people visited the pop-up store on its opening day, and visitors could be seen steadily participating in events even on a weekday afternoon.
At the pop-up store, visitors can check out photo zones themed after the anime movies "Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc" and "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Infinity Castle Chapter 1". Guests can also take four-cut photos at photo booths featuring frames designed after the two series and Crunchyroll. Additionally, visitors will find videos and posters of Crunchyroll's flagship titles, as well as a message wall where they can leave notes expressing their passion for their favorite series and characters.
A compact merch shop selling anime-related products has been set up, alongside a stamp tour where participants can win Chainsaw Man merchandise through a lucky draw. However, giveaways are available only while supplies last.
One visitor at the site shared, "It was great to easily participate in the events and get merch," adding regarding Crunchyroll's South Korean service that it seems like a welcome opportunity to watch anime that isn't available on other OTT platforms or has already been taken down.
Meanwhile, beyond this pop-up store, Crunchyroll is expanding its touchpoints with domestic fans through various programs, including live performances and special anime screenings. A live performance was held on October 25, and a special screening of three Crunchyroll-exclusive anime titles is scheduled to take place at CGV Hongdae on October 31.
The Crunchyroll Festival Korea 2026 pop-up store will operate on the 2nd floor of AK Plaza Hongdae through November 8.
