South Korean police have questioned Yang Jong-hwan, head of Shinsegae Group’s audit team, as part of an investigation into the controversial Starbucks "Tank Day" promotion. The campaign launched on May 18, coinciding with the 46th anniversary of the Gwangju uprising, triggering immediate public backlash and allegations of violating laws prohibiting false information about the 1980 pro-democracy crackdown.
Shinsegae Group terminated its Korea chief executive following the scandal, while Chairman Chung Yong-jin issued a formal apology. Despite these measures, civic groups filed complaints against Chung and other executives for defamation and insult. Investigators are now examining whether corporate negligence or intentional misconduct occurred during the campaign's approval process.
Starbucks Korea will close all stores for half-day history lessons next Monday to educate staff on the Gwangju uprising. Senior executives, including Chairman Chung, will attend similar sessions two days later. The operator acknowledged a sharp decline in sales immediately following the controversy, which sparked protests in both Seoul and Gwangju.
South Korea remains Starbucks' third-largest global market after the United States and China. Shinsegae has pledged full cooperation with authorities, stating it hopes facts will be clarified swiftly and transparently. Police have not commented on the ongoing investigation.