Starbucks Korea is grappling with a significant drop in sales after its "Tank Day" promotional campaign sparked widespread backlash. The campaign's imagery and messaging were perceived as referencing the 1980 Gwangju Uprising, a traumatic event in South Korea’s history involving military suppression of pro-democracy demonstrations. Retail leader Chung Yong-jin, chairman of Shinsegae Group which operates the local franchise, has publicly apologized multiple times in response to public outrage. Consumers and media have criticized the campaign for lacking historical sensitivity, leading to boycotts and negative sentiment toward the brand across the country.
Meanwhile, Ferrari has announced the launch of "Luce," its first fully electric supercar, signaling a major step into sustainable high-performance vehicles. This development reflects the company's strategic pivot amid growing global demand for electric alternatives in the luxury automotive sector. The unveiling marks a milestone for Ferrari as it seeks to maintain relevance in an evolving market landscape while preserving its reputation for speed and engineering excellence.