Starbucks in South Korea will close its stores for a half-day on June 24 to provide employees with a history lesson related to the Gwangju Uprising. This decision follows criticism of a promotional campaign for a new coffee thermos, which coincided with the anniversary of the uprising, resulting in the dismissal of CEO Son Jeong-hyun. The campaign faced backlash for its timing and the use of the slogan "Thwack on the desk," which has historical connotations related to police brutality. Shinsegae Group, which holds the licensing agreement for Starbucks in South Korea, has apologized and announced that Chairman Chung Yong-jin will participate in the training. The closure will mark the first nationwide early closing for Starbucks Korea since 1999.
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Starbucks South Korea to Close Stores for Employee History Training Following Controversial Campaign
Starbucks in South Korea will close for three hours on June 24 for employee training on the Gwangju Uprising's history, following criticism of a promotional campaign that launched on its anniversary. The campaign's controversial slogan and timing led to the dismissal of the CEO and widespread protests.
Companies
Starbucks
Shinsegae Group
People
Son Jeong-hyun
Chung Yong-jin
Lee Jae Myung
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Bias Analysis
Bias score
45/100
wirepublicmainstream
flavoredpartisanadvocacy
Inflammatory language
10/100
Sentiment
-20/100
Bias Indicators Removed
- ✕ loaded language: 'widespread criticism'
- ✕ loaded language: 'anger spread quickly'
- ✕ loaded language: 'inhumane and disgraceful'
- ✕ framing: headline asserting a conclusion
- ✕ framing: selective emphasis on criticism and protests
- ✕ editorializing: anger over the company’s campaign spread quickly
- ✕ vague attribution: other sources put the death toll in the thousands
Original vs. Neutral
Original Headline
South Korea’s Starbucks to close for staff history lesson after ‘Tank Day’ reusable cup campaign
Neutral Headline
Starbucks South Korea to Close Stores for Employee History Training Following Controversial Campaign