Shinsegae chairman apologizes over Starbucks Korea ‘Tank Day’ controversy

Chung Yong-jin, chairman of Shinsegae Group, issued a public apology Tuesday over the controversial “Tank Day” promotion held by Starbucks Korea on May 18, the anniversary of the May 18 Gwangju Democratic Uprising. In a statement addressed to the public, Chung said he “deeply wounded the spirits of those who sacrificed for the May 18 Democratic Uprising, their bereaved families and the people of Korea,” adding that he bows his head in apology on behalf of the group. He described the promotion as “an inappropriate marketing campaign that should never have happened and cannot be tolerated,” calling it “an inexcusable mistake that trivialized the pain and sacrifice of those who dedicated themselves to the nation’s democracy.” “I keenly feel that all responsibility for this matter lies with me. I am well aware that no explanation will be easily accepted,” he said, pledging to overhaul decision-making and review procedures. Chung also acknowledged the group’s lack of historical awareness and sensitivity, promising mandatory education for executives and employees, a tr

Original source: Korea Times