On May 21, representatives from civic groups in Gwangju and Jeonnam condemn Starbucks Korea and Chairman Jeong Yong-jin during a press conference in front of the E-Mart Gwangju store. [Photo=Yonhap News]
Starbucks Korea has issued another apology following backlash over promotional slogans related to the May 18 Democratic Movement. On May 22, the company released a statement to all its stores nationwide, expressing, "We deeply apologize for the significant hurt caused to the spirits of the May 18 Democratic Movement, the bereaved families, and the public."
Starbucks Korea clarified that the controversy stemmed from a mistake made during the operation of its online business and emphasized that it was unrelated to store partners. The company urged the public to refrain from criticizing its employees, stating, "We sincerely ask for your restraint in directing blame toward our partners, who strive to do their best every moment."
Additionally, they expressed gratitude for any warm consideration shown to employees, allowing them to work in a safe environment.
The controversy arose on May 18, the anniversary of the May 18 Democratic Movement, when Starbucks Korea used slogans such as 'Tank Day' and 'Bang on the Desk!' during a tumbler promotion. Following complaints and criticism directed at store employees, the company issued a further apology aimed at protecting its staff.
Internal measures are also underway. On May 20, Starbucks Korea held a town hall meeting at its headquarters in Gangnam, Seoul, to discuss the controversy and response strategies with employees. Reports indicate that about 150 out of 600 employees attended the meeting.
During the meeting, executives addressed the disarray within the organization caused by the recent controversy and the dismissal of the CEO, urging employees to continue their work without distraction.
Starbucks Korea clarified that the controversy stemmed from a mistake made during the operation of its online business and emphasized that it was unrelated to store partners. The company urged the public to refrain from criticizing its employees, stating, "We sincerely ask for your restraint in directing blame toward our partners, who strive to do their best every moment."
Additionally, they expressed gratitude for any warm consideration shown to employees, allowing them to work in a safe environment.
The controversy arose on May 18, the anniversary of the May 18 Democratic Movement, when Starbucks Korea used slogans such as 'Tank Day' and 'Bang on the Desk!' during a tumbler promotion. Following complaints and criticism directed at store employees, the company issued a further apology aimed at protecting its staff.
Internal measures are also underway. On May 20, Starbucks Korea held a town hall meeting at its headquarters in Gangnam, Seoul, to discuss the controversy and response strategies with employees. Reports indicate that about 150 out of 600 employees attended the meeting.
During the meeting, executives addressed the disarray within the organization caused by the recent controversy and the dismissal of the CEO, urging employees to continue their work without distraction.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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