Shinsegae Group Chairman Chung Yong-jin apologized Wednesday over the "Tank Day" marketing controversy involving Starbucks Korea. The public apology, made eight days after the controversy erupted, marks Chung's first public apology since he was appointed chairman of Shinsegae Group in March 2024.
At a press conference held at the Josun Palace Hotel in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, Chung said, "As chairman of Shinsegae Group, I sincerely bow my head and apologize to the bereaved families of the May 18 Gwangju Democratization Movement, the citizens of Gwangju, and all the people who have felt deep hurt and disappointment over this incident." He added, "I bear full responsibility for this matter," and, "I will make no excuses."
He continued, "We will fundamentally re-examine our internal systems and risk management framework," adding, "We will start over from scratch to make tangible changes and regain the trust of the people." Chung bowed three times while reading the apology statement to express his contrition.
According to Shinsegae Group's internal investigation, the controversy stemmed from a comprehensive failure of oversight. The event proposal passed through approval lines including the team leader, executive, division head, and CEO, yet not a single objection was raised. However, Shinsegae Group said it found no evidence that employees had planned the event with the intent of disparaging the May 18 Gwangju Democratization Movement.
