Apple shows off first South Korea retail store ahead of grand opening on Saturday

Located in the posh Gangnam area of Seoul, Apple's Garosugil store boasts a next-generation flagship design with a 25-foot glass facade, large sales floor flanked by an accessories avenue, a huge custom-built 6K TV display and Forum space for Today at Apple sessions.

"We're thrilled to open a new home for our customers in the vibrant city of Seoul and we look forward to continuing to grow in Korea," said Angela Ahrendts, Apple SVP of Retail. "Our stores are gathering places for the community where everyone is welcome to connect, learn and create."

The store's general architecture mimics other standalone Apple outlets, with high flung ceilings and a wide open product demo area. Four planters located just inside the outlet's glass walls hold large saplings that appear to be of similar variety to two large trees planted outside. The large glass facade, coupled with mirrored flora, is meant to blur the line between inside and outside, Apple says. The same design language has been applied to other recently opened stores like Apple's Chicago flagship.

Apple confirmed plans for the Seoul store a year ago when it posted hiring notices for various staff positions including potential candidates for the Apple Store Leader Program.

After a lengthy construction process, the company announced an opening date for its first South Korean store earlier this month.

Like other Apple stores, the Garosugil location will host Today at Apple Sessions starting with iPhone photography and music creation lessons. Those interested can sign up for a spot through the store's Today at Apple webpage.

The store's 140 employees will be on hand for a grand opening celebration set to kick off 10 a.m. local time on Saturday.