Starbucks Korea CEO Dismissed Following Controversial Promotion
Starbucks Korea has terminated its CEO after backlash over a promotional campaign that many interpreted as a reference to a violent historical event.
Editorial Staff
1 min read
Updated 30 days ago
On May 19, 2026, Starbucks Korea announced the dismissal of its CEO amid controversy surrounding a promotional campaign for drink tumblers.
The campaign was criticized by many who believed it alluded to a bloody crackdown in the country's history, prompting significant public backlash.
In response to the outcry, Starbucks decided to withdraw the campaign, highlighting the sensitivity surrounding historical events in the region.