South Korean government ministries are reviewing whether to cancel a Prime Minister’s commendation awarded to Starbucks Korea following a controversial promotion [1].
The move signals the government's sensitivity toward the May 18 democratization movement, a cornerstone of South Korean civic identity and historical memory. Revoking a state honor is a rare and severe administrative response to corporate conduct.
The Ministry of SMEs and Startups and the Ministry of the Interior and Safety are leading the review [1]. The controversy stems from a promotion launched on May 18 that used the phrases “Tank Day” and “Desk Tak!” [1]. Critics perceived these phrases as mocking the 5·18 Gwangju democratization movement, during which the military deployed tanks against civilians [1].
Starbucks Korea had previously received the Prime Minister’s commendation in November 2023 [1]. The award recognized the company's contributions, but the recent marketing campaign has led officials to reconsider the honor.
A spokesperson for the Ministry of the Interior and Safety said, "수시 취소도 할 수 있다" (Cancellation can be done at any time) [1].
Reporter Kim Hye-rin of YTN said the Ministry of SMEs and Startups reviewed the potential cancellation after the coffee chain became embroiled in the controversy for using the specific phrases in its promotion [1]. The government is now determining if the company's actions warrant the formal removal of the state award.
““Cancellation can be done at any time””
This situation highlights the high stakes for corporations operating in South Korea regarding historical and political sensitivities. The May 18 Gwangju movement is not only a historical event but a legally protected memory; mocking it can lead to significant state sanctions and public boycotts. By reviewing the Prime Minister's commendation, the government is demonstrating that corporate social responsibility includes strict adherence to national historical sensitivities.
