Korean mobile operator SK Telecom has taken the wraps off “gifticon,” a new service that allows users to exchange small gifts using their Internet chat programs and mobile phones, the Korean Herald reports. This service is the first to combine Internet chat and mobile phones, the operator said.

In practice, the service lets users sends a “flashcon” (short for flash and emoticon), which may be an image representing a Starbucks caramel macchiato, cafe latte, tea latte, juice, a Haagen Dazs single bar, green tea mini cup, or foods sold at convenience stores, for example. (SK Telecom has partnered with Starbucks, 7-Eleven convenience store chains and Haagen Dazs to provide this service.)

But these visuals convey more than images – they can also include movie tickets, and coupons for music downloads or ringtone services. The user gets the flashcon and a bar code for the featured item, which the user can then exchange for the real thing at the relevant store. The bar codes are valid for 60 days and can be downloaded via wireless internet for around 100 Korean won ($0.11).  Users can also ask for a present by selecting the relevant menu on the chatting screen. Payments can be made by credit card, discount coupons, or added to the monthly mobile phone bill.