Namdaemun Market's Scarf Man gifts scarves to high school students

The popular Namdaemun Market vendor known as the "Scarf Man" visited a high school on the 9th to deliver scarves and encouragement to students preparing for the CSAT. The visit followed a direct message from the school principal requesting to purchase items for the exam-takers.

The "Scarf Man," who has gained nationwide popularity for his witty banter at Namdaemun Market, has launched a special cheering campaign for students preparing for exams. Known for his unique sales style of actually discouraging customers from purchasing his scarves, he visited a high school carrying large bundles to deliver warm encouragement and gifts.

On the 9th, the Scarf Man posted a video on his social media account showing him packing scarves into large plastic bags. The outside of the bags featured the large message, "Don't get exhausted! Hit the jackpot on the CSAT!" In contrast to his usual witty remarks where he actively dissuaded customers from buying goods, his message on this day contained sincere support to empower the exam-takers.

This school visit was made possible through an unexpected connection. It came to light after a teacher who met the Scarf Man posted a verification video, noting that the school principal had sent a direct message (DM) expressing a desire to purchase scarves to distribute to the students. What began as a simple inquiry about purchasing products evolved into a school visit and a gift of encouragement, creating a special day.

Upon arriving at the school, the Scarf Man displayed his signature playful wit with the students and teachers. When one teacher expressed joy by saying, "I'm a fan, a fan," he shot back, "Who is this teacher! Acting like we're so close. I thought I actually knew you." His unexpected and cheeky response turned the scene into a sea of laughter and provided an unforgettable memory for the students.

Following the visit, the Scarf Man stated through comments that he actually gained more energy himself. "I went to a school for the first time in a long while and ended up receiving energy instead," he said, adding, "Fighting to the exam-takers across the country who are currently going through the hardest times in South Korea." His encouragement to students facing the tension and pressure ahead of the CSAT added meaning through warm sharing that went beyond mere product sales.

The Scarf Man became famous at Namdaemun Market through his unique way of doing business. He would trigger laughter by pouring out remarks such as, "You are overspending right now," "It doesn't suit you. Don't buy it," "Don't spend money," and "Even if you buy it, you won't wear it when you get home," actively discouraging customers from making purchases. This sales method, which is the exact opposite of the typical way of persuading customers to buy products, created a large sensation online.

As these appearances spread rapidly through social media, he earned the nickname "Scarfrio." The name combines "scarf" with the Hollywood actor Leonardo DiCaprio. His unique expressions and wit have drawn public interest, turning him into a prominent figure representing Namdaemun Market. The number of visitors coming to his shop to take verification photos and videos has also surged.

This sudden fame has also impacted the market site. The market alleys became so crowded with visitors flocking to see the Scarf Man that police were even dispatched to the scene. As the number of customers visiting his shop increased sharply, he decided to take temporary closures several times and even hired private security personnel to prevent safety accidents.

Following his witty banter online which led to him becoming a market celebrity, the Scarf Man is continuing to make headlines with his warm encouragement toward exam students. Interest is gathering on his actions as his humble heart, sitting behind his unique character that provides laughter, presents another layer of charm.

Read the original (Korean)