Vending machines in Seoul, South Korea are shaking up the traditional gold buying experience by providing gold bars in a range of sizes. Found in convenience stores in the upscale Gangnam district and beyond, these machines are meeting the increasing desire for small-scale investments among South Koreans. Gold bars as tiny as 0.5 grams are up for grabs, with prices starting at around 88,000 won ($64) and adjusted daily to reflect worldwide market shifts. This groundbreaking concept was introduced by GS Retail Co. and has grown to encompass 30 locations nationwide. Taking advantage of the soaring gold prices, which have recently soared past $2,400 per ounce, these gold vending machines have become a hit. Their popularity has even prompted local online banks to incorporate gold purchasing options in their apps, catering to the strong demand for this traditional safe-haven asset in the face of ongoing economic uncertainties.
