EXO's Kai Faces Backlash For 'Brand Endorsement' Amid Boycott Uproar
EXO's Kai was spotted taking a mirror selfie, but it was the Starbucks cup on the floor that quickly became the centre of controversy in South Korea.
Starbucks South Korea has come under fire for its support of Palestine during the Gaza conflict, and EXO’s Kai has inadvertently become part of the controversy. A photo of him with a Starbucks drink surfaced online, showing him taking a mirror selfie with the cup visible on the floor. The image quickly sparked frustration among his fans, who felt that their idol was publicly backing a brand they were currently boycotting.
In the photo, Kai is casually sitting in a rehearsal studio, with a Starbucks cup visible on the floor. Although the singer hasn’t posted anything on Instagram since 2023, many fans even left negative comments on his previous posts. However, some people defended the South Korean sensation for his choice. The issue escalated as the brand is on the global Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) list due to its stance in the war.
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This isn’t the first time a South Korean idol has faced criticism for supporting Starbucks. A few months ago, when NCT announced a collaboration with the coffee brand and launched merchandise, their fans were also upset with the deal. During the time, the brand released a statement claiming that they do not support hate or violence, especially towards innocent people.
As per Koreaboo, the spokesperson said, “Starbucks is a global company committed to providing a place where everyone feels welcome and a sense of belonging, anywhere in the world. We abhor hate and strongly reject violence against the innocent. Despite false statements spread through social media, Starbucks has never contributed to any government or military operation in any way."
While many people believe that Starbucks is supporting Palestine, the company has clarified on its website that it is focused on humanitarian relief efforts in Gaza through its Foundation and Alshaya Starbucks. The company announced its commitment to providing 1 million meals to those in need and donating $3 million to World Central Kitchen.
Kai’s involvement in the controversy came just a week after his discharge from the military.
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