Starbucks Korea has experienced a significant drop in sales following backlash from a marketing campaign linked to the 1980 Gwangju Uprising. The campaign prompted public outrage, leading to an internal investigation and the firing of Starbucks Korea's head. Shinsegae Group's chairman publicly apologized for the incident.

• 01The 'Tank Day' tumbler campaign coincided with the anniversary of the Gwangju Uprising, a tragic event where military forces suppressed pro-democracy protests.
• 02Shinsegae Group chairman Chung Yong-jin acknowledged the marketing blunder and took full responsibility, urging the public not to blame frontline staff.
• 03Sales at Starbucks Korea have sharply declined since the controversy, prompting an internal investigation into the marketing team's decision-making process.
• 04The incident revealed significant flaws in Starbucks Korea's risk management, as the campaign was approved without adequate review.
• 05Shinsegae has terminated the head of Starbucks Korea in response to the backlash and initiated an investigation into the marketing campaign.

The marketing controversy has led to a significant drop in sales for Starbucks Korea, affecting its market position in South Korea.