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Photo courtesy of Yonhap News |
[Alpha Biz= Paul Lee] SEOUL, June 5 — Sales at Starbucks Korea continue to decline for a second week following the “Tank Day” controversy, despite a public apology from Chung Yong-jin, chairman of Shinsegae Group.
According to data from Mobile Index, estimated weekly credit and debit card spending at Starbucks fell to 21.46 billion won for the May 25–31 period, down 9.4% from the previous week. Compared with pre-controversy levels, sales dropped by more than 30%, indicating a significant impact from the ongoing boycott.
The backlash began after marketing content released around the May 18 pro-democracy commemoration drew criticism for insensitivity. The controversy triggered a consumer boycott, with some organizations also suspending the use of Starbucks gift cards.
The company acknowledged the decline in sales and has taken follow-up measures, including easing refund policies for prepaid cards and suspending promotional campaigns.
Alphabiz Reporter Paul Lee(hoondork1977@alphabiz.co.kr)
