Starbucks has taken a unique step in South Korea by blocking the use of six political candidates' names on its app during the election season. This move aims to maintain a neutral environment in its coffee shops amidst rising political tensions. As the country prepares for a presidential election, even simple interactions like ordering coffee can become contentious.
• Starbucks has disabled names of all candidates running for president to avoid political discussions in stores.
• The ban includes prominent figures like Lee Jae-myung and Kim Moon-soo, reflecting the divided political climate.
• This is the first time Starbucks has implemented such a ban, aiming to ensure a pleasant experience for all customers.
• Many customers have expressed mixed feelings about the decision, with some finding it excessive while others understand the need for neutrality.
This situation highlights how deeply politics can infiltrate everyday life in South Korea. As the nation grapples with its political landscape, businesses like Starbucks are navigating a fine line to ensure they remain neutral and welcoming to all customers.
Enjoying the read? Subscribe for free to one of the fastest-growing newsletters and get weekly coffee news (TL;DR updates) delivered right to your inbox.