SEOUL — Hanwha Galleria’s newest venture into the dessert industry officially begins with the launch of Benson Creamery Seoul, a premium ice cream brand under its subsidiary Betterscoop Creamery. Located just steps from Apgujeong Rodeo Station Exit No. 5, the flagship store opens Friday, anchoring a bustling district frequented by trend-savvy youth and international tourists.
The launch was preceded by a press conference on Monday, where Betterscoop Creamery CEO Oh Min-woo introduced Benson as a brand designed to “freeze the moment,” encapsulating memories in every scoop.
Backed by Hanwha Galleria Vice President Kim Dong-seon — who played a central role in shaping the product strategy — Benson reflects a broader ambition to elevate Korea’s dessert landscape through quality, innovation, and experience.
To ensure full control over taste and texture, Betterscoop Creamery established a dedicated production facility in Pocheon, Gyeonggi Province. All dairy ingredients are locally sourced, and the ice cream boasts a high milk fat content of up to 17 percent. By reducing air content to about 40 percent — roughly half that of typical commercial products — Benson delivers a noticeably denser, creamier texture.
The brand debuts with 20 flavors, each served in single cups priced at 5,300 won. Seasonal selections and limited-time offerings will rotate throughout the year.
The three-story Apgujeong location is more than just a storefront. Customers can immerse themselves in the full ice cream-making journey, from ingredient selection to packaging, through a hands-on experiential space. The top-floor tasting lounge will feature premium desserts crafted in collaboration with award-winning Chef Justin Lee, the first Korean to receive France’s prestigious La Liste gastronomy award.
The debut of Benson also marks Hanwha’s continued expansion into lifestyle and hospitality ventures. With the nearby Five Guys location already drawing crowds, Benson is poised to complement the area’s food and retail ecosystem.
Betterscoop Creamery aims to open at least 10 additional stores and pop-up locations by year’s end, signaling the company’s intent to establish Benson as one of the latest ice cream franchise contenders in Korea’s competitive dessert scene.
As consumer demand grows for quality, experience-driven brands, ice cream franchise opportunities like Benson may offer a new blueprint for upscale dessert innovation in Asia and beyond.
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