What: Lotte Department Store has become the first retailer to receive certification for its human rights management system, setting a new industry standard for ethical and stakeholder-focused management.

Why it is important: The move demonstrates how formalized, third-party-validated human rights management is becoming a critical differentiator and expectation in global retail.

Lotte Department Store has set a new benchmark in the retail industry by becoming the first retailer to receive certification for its human rights management system. Developed by the Korea Management Certification Authority in accordance with United Nations and ISO standards, this certification recognizes Lotte’s comprehensive approach to respecting and protecting the rights of employees, customers, partners, and the local community. The company’s achievement follows an ‘excellent’ rating in a third-party human rights impact assessment in 2023 and a ‘top-notch’ evaluation last year, underscoring its ongoing commitment to ethical management. By prioritizing respect for human rights as a core value and implementing rigorous, externally validated processes, Lotte is not only strengthening its own ESG credentials but also raising expectations for the entire retail sector. This move reflects a broader global trend toward transparency, accountability, and stakeholder engagement, positioning Lotte as a leader in responsible business conduct.

IADS Notes: Lotte Department Store’s achievement as the first retailer to receive certification for its human rights management system marks a significant milestone in the evolution of ESG practices within the retail sector. This certification, developed by the Korea Management Certification Authority in line with United Nations and ISO standards, underscores the growing importance of formalized, third-party-validated approaches to human rights and stakeholder responsibility. Lotte’s commitment to conducting third-party human rights impact assessments and prioritizing respect for human rights across employees, customers, partners, and the local community reflects a holistic and proactive stance on ethical management. This move positions Lotte as an industry leader in responsible business conduct, setting a new benchmark for competitors and aligning with the broader global trend toward transparency, accountability, and stakeholder engagement in retail.

Lotte Department Store earns first human rights management certification in retail