Shinsegae Group Chairman Chung Yong-jin on Tuesday formally “asked for forgiveness” regarding the widely criticized promotional event by Starbucks Korea. This controversial campaign had inadvertently evoked painful memories of the brutal military crackdown during the 1980 Gwangju pro-democracy movement, sparking significant public outrage.
Addressing a press conference in southern Seoul, the prominent retail company chief stated, “I take very seriously the fact that many people have felt deep pain and anger due to Starbucks Korea’s inappropriate marketing initiatives.”
Emphasizing his remorse, Chung Yong-jin added, “I sincerely bow my head in apology and humbly ask for your forgiveness from the bottom of my heart.”
Chairman Chung Yong-jin affirmed his commitment to not offering excuses, vowing instead to take full and direct responsibility for the incident. He specifically acknowledged the profound hurt caused to those affected, including the bereaved family members of the Gwangju Uprising victims and the entire community of Gwangju.
This significant public apology followed mounting controversy that persisted despite Chung’s previous statement. The controversy erupted after Starbucks Korea, a popular coffee chain operated by Shinsegae affiliate E-Mart, launched its online “Tank Day” promotion last Monday, coinciding with the sensitive anniversary of the May 18 Gwangju uprising.
