Starbucks Korea sacks CEO over controversial 'Tank Day' promotion
Starbucks Korea has dismissed its CEO following backlash over a promotional campaign linked to a historical massacre. The 'Tank Day' promotion, which coincided with the anniversary of the Gwangju Uprising, was criticized for its insensitivity and perceived references to military violence against pro-democracy activists. The company has since apologized and suspended the promotion, pledging to improve its marketing review processes.
- ▪Starbucks Korea's CEO was fired due to a controversial 'Tank Day' promotion.
- ▪The campaign was launched on the anniversary of the Gwangju Uprising, a significant event in South Korea's pro-democracy history.
- ▪The promotion sparked outrage and calls for a boycott from the public and government officials.
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Starbucks Korea sacks CEO over controversial 'Tank Day' promotion11 minutes agoShareSaveAdd as preferred on GoogleKelly NgandJake Kwon,Seoul correspondentGetty ImagesThe campaign referred to a bloody crackdown on pro-democracy activists in 1980Starbucks Korea's chief executive has been sacked over a campaign perceived as referring to a bloody historical incident.Launched on Monday, the anniversary of the Gwangju Uprising crackdown, the "Tank Day" coffee tumbler promotion sparked calls to boycott Starbucks Korea and prompted a harsh rebuke from President Lee Jae Myung.Many felt the "tank" motif referenced vehicles deployed by the military government in May 1980 to crush pro-democracy protesters.Starbucks Korea rolled back the promotion hours after it launched.
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