Starbucks Korea's 'Tank Day' sparks outrage, echoes past political stunts

The Hankyoreh's editorial stance is critical of the actions of Shinsegae Group Chairman Chung Yong-jin and former President Yoon Suk-yeol, drawing parallels between their past political maneuvering and current societal issues.

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Starbucks Korea called May 18, 'Tank Day' and offered discounts on tumblers that could be placed 'on a desk.'

The article highlights how Starbucks Korea's "Tank Day" promotion, which offered discounts on tumblers, was perceived as a mockery of the 1980 Gwangju Uprising. This event is linked to a past incident where then-presidential candidate Yoon Suk-yeol visited an E-Mart and purchased anchovies and beans, a move interpreted as a nod to Chung's "멸공" (anti-communism) social media campaign. The article criticizes this as a "childish political stunt" aimed at consolidating support.

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It was a childish political stunt to rally supporters under the guise of 'freedom of expression,' but Yoon claimed it was just grocery shopping.

Furthermore, the piece draws a disturbing parallel between former President Yoon Suk-yeol's declaration of emergency martial law in December 2024 and former dictator Chun Doo-hwan's actions in 1980. The author argues that both leaders, despite their stated opposition to communism, ultimately resorted to authoritarian measures. The "Tank Day" event is presented as a consequence of this environment, where those in power create a space for their followers to engage in "hate and mockery."

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The name of the video file promoting AI Yoon Suk-yeol buying anchovies and beans at E-Mart was 'yj_loves,' exactly matching Chung's Instagram ID.

While Chung Yong-jin has reportedly expressed a willingness to receive historical education, the article contrasts this with the perceived lack of remorse from the instigators of the "martial law" incident. The Hankyoreh concludes by emphasizing that the Republic of Korea, having overcome authoritarianism, is now moving towards a "new world" distinct from the "Yoon Suk-yeol era."

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Yoon Suk-yeol had previously praised Chun Doo-hwan, saying many people, including those in the Honam region, acknowledged that he did well in politics.