Music retailer K-pop Korner to open first northern store at the Merrion Centre
The incredibly popular music retailer, K-pop Korner, is opening its first northern store in Leeds this week with exclusive launch events
Leeds city centre is once again set to become a major hub for music fans this week as one of the UK's leading specialist K-pop retailers prepares to launch its first-ever store in the North of England.
The highly anticipated arrival of K-Pop Korner at the Merrion Centre marks the brand’s fourth UK location - following wildly successful branches in London Waterloo, London Euston, and Nottingham - and comes in direct response to booming demand from music fans across Yorkshire.
Recognised as the UK’s only multi-location dedicated K-pop retailer, the store will stock official K-pop albums, exclusive merchandise, signed records, light sticks, and rare collectibles imported directly from South Korea.
Beyond standard retail, the brand has built a massive national following through its immersive community trading days, fan events, and exclusive product launches.
Anastasia Tsappis, Director of K-pop Korner, said the vibrant energy of Leeds made it the natural choice for their northern expansion: “Our community has been asking for a more accessible location outside London and the Midlands for a long time, so Leeds felt like the natural next step.
“The Merrion Centre stood out because of its vibrant atmosphere, fantastic city-centre location, and strong connection to entertainment and youth culture.”
Anastasia continued: “Community has always been at the heart of what we do, and we’re looking forward to building a welcoming environment where fans can meet, discover new merchandise, celebrate their favourite artists, and enjoy special events together.”
To celebrate the Leeds launch, the store is hosting a series of high-profile fan experiences across the opening weekend.
Shoppers can look forward to dedicated Stray Kids events featuring exclusive merchandise and signed album access, alongside a special Xikers hello82 exclusive event. The weekend promises a packed itinerary of fan-focused activities, new merchandise drops, and a space for local enthusiasts to connect.
Leila Fell, Apprentice Asset Manager at Town Centre Securities (owners of the Merrion Centre), welcomed the arrival: “K-pop continues to grow in popularity across the UK, particularly among younger audiences, so we’re delighted to welcome K-pop Korner to the Merrion Centre.
“The brand offers a unique mix of retail and community experiences that complements our existing line-up of leisure, entertainment, and lifestyle operators.”
The new opening is also providing a boost to the local economy, creating several new part-time employment opportunities in the city centre. Anyone interested in joining the team ahead of the launch can submit an application directly to the company via their email address.
The pop-up doors open this May 22, with massive crowds of fans expected to head into the city centre from across the region to catch the launch weekend action.