Starbucks Korea to Close Stores Early for Mandatory History Training

1-Minute Brief

The move follows public backlash over a marketing campaign that referenced a sensitive period in South Korean history.

Key Facts

• Starbucks Korea will close all stores nationwide early on June 22 for mandatory training.
• The training will focus on history and social sensitivity.
• The decision comes after criticism of a recent Starbucks ad campaign.
• The campaign was said to evoke the 1980 military crackdown, according to Al Jazeera.
• Starbucks Korea announced the closure and training on Monday.

What Happened

Starbucks Korea announced it will close all its stores early on June 22 to conduct mandatory history and social sensitivity training for employees following criticism of a recent marketing campaign.

Why It Matters

The decision highlights the sensitivity of historical issues in South Korea and the importance of corporate awareness regarding local history and social context.

What's Next

All Starbucks Korea stores are scheduled to close early on June 22 for the training session. Further company statements or policy changes may follow.