A Starbucks store sign is seen at a store in Seoul, May 26. Yonhap
Starbucks headquarters in the United States has formally apologized over the controversial “Tank Day” promotion, which sparked widespread criticism for its perceived association with the May 18 Gwangju Uprising.
The May 18 Foundation said Sunday that it had received a written response from the company, in which Starbucks expressed its regret, saying, “We are truly sorry,” and described the promotion as “an unacceptable marketing incident.”
In an email obtained by The Korea Times, Starbucks acknowledged the hurt caused by the promotion, saying, “We understand the deep pain and offense this has caused, particularly for those who honor the victims, their families, and all who contributed to Korea’s democratization.”
On June 1, the foundation and three associations representing victims of the May 18 Gwangju Democratization Movement sent a letter of protest to Starbucks headquarters, demanding a corporate-level investigation, disciplinary action against Starbucks Korea, an official apology and measures to prevent similar incidents.
