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Chung Yong-jin, Chairman of Shinsegae Group. (Photo: Yonhap News Agency) |
[Alpha Biz= Kim Jisun] Chung Yong-jin, chairman of Shinsegae Group, has dismissed the head of Starbucks Korea following public backlash over a controversial promotion held on the anniversary of the May 18 Gwangju Democratization Movement.
According to industry sources on May 18, Chung ordered the immediate removal of Son Jung-hyun, CEO of SCK Company, after criticism intensified online that the event appeared to mock the historical significance of the date.
The group said the incident occurred without Chung’s knowledge and described the dismissal as a swift measure to contain the controversy and prevent further public misunderstanding.
The issue arose from a promotional campaign launched earlier in the day by Starbucks Korea, which marketed a “Tank Day” event featuring products such as a “Colorful Tank Tumbler Set” and a “Tank Duo Set.” Promotional materials on the Starbucks mobile app included phrases such as “May 18 Tank Day” alongside marketing slogans.
The campaign drew strong criticism for its timing and wording, as May 18 marks the anniversary of the 1980 Gwangju Democratization Movement, during which military forces deployed tanks and carried out a violent crackdown on civilians.
Observers noted that the use of the term “Tank Day” on such a date was widely viewed as inappropriate and insensitive, prompting rapid escalation of public backlash and the company’s swift executive action.
Alphabiz Reporter Kim Jisun(stockmk2020@alphabiz.co.kr)
