Lotte (롯데)

Lotte (롯데) is one of South Koreas largest and most influential conglomerates (chaebols), playing a significant role in the nations economy. With a network of more than 90 affiliated companies across diverse industries, Lotte is widely recognized in many countries, including Thailand, for its confectionery, beverages, and department stores.

Origins in Japan

The story of Lotte began in 1948 in Tokyo, Japan, founded by Shin Kyuk-ho (신격호), a Korean entrepreneur who migrated during World War II. Inspired by American soldiers distributing chewing gum to children, Shin started producing and selling gum under the name Lotte.

The name Lotte was inspired by Charlotte, a character from Johann Wolfgang von Goethes famous novel The Sorrows of Young Werther. Charlotte, affectionately known as Lotte, symbolized pure love and charm qualities that the founder wished to embody in his brand.

Initially, Lotte focused on chewing gum and sweets for the Japanese market, which was recovering from war and eager for affordable, quality confectionery. Its early success soon expanded into candies, cookies, and cakes. By the early 1960s, Lotte had become one of Japans leading confectionery producers and even sponsored the hit TV show Lotte Music Album.

Expansion into Korea

In 1967, Shin Kyuk-ho brought the business back to his homeland, establishing Lotte Confectionery in Seoul. The company quickly thrived, producing chewing gum, sweets, and instant noodles.

From there, Lotte expanded into various sectors, founding subsidiaries such as Lotte Chilsung Beverage (soft drinks), Lotte Samkang, Lotte Ham/Milk, and Lotteria, a fast-food restaurant chain.

The Rise of Retail and Diversification

In 1979, Lotte launched its first department store in Seoul, guided by its Customer First philosophy. The store rapidly grew into one of South Koreas leading retail landmarks.

Over the years, Lotte transformed into a powerful chaebol, alongside giants like Samsung, Hyundai, and LG. By the 1990s and 2000s, the company expanded internationally across Asia, Europe, and the Americas, forging global partnerships such as Lotte-Nestlé and Lotte-Asahi.

Economic and Social Impact

Lotte has played a vital role in South Koreas economic growth, creating tens of thousands of jobs while contributing to advancements in technology, tourism, and retail. The company has also invested in infrastructure, education, and cultural projects.

One of its most iconic achievements is the Lotte World Tower, a 123-story skyscraper in Seoul. It is South Koreas tallest building and one of the tallest in the world, symbolizing Lottes global ambition.

Todays Lotte

Currently, Lotte operates more than 90 companies with over 60,000 employees, spanning industries such as:

• Confectionery and beverages
• Hotels and fast-food chains
• Retail and department stores
• Finance, IT, and electronics
• Construction, publishing, and entertainment

The Founders Legacy

Shin Kyuk-ho, born in Ulsan, South Korea, in 1921, migrated to Japan during World War II. Starting with humble jobs such as newspaper delivery, he later built a chewing gum business that became the foundation of Lotte. After officially registering the company in 1948 and expanding back to Korea in 1967, Shin transformed Lotte into a global business empire. His vision and determination established Lotte as one of South Koreas most powerful conglomerates.

A variety of Lotte products are available at Rimping Supermarket.