All Starbucks locations in South Korea will close for three hours on June 22nd for mandatory history training for employees. The closure follows a public outcry over a recent Starbucks marketing campaign deemed insensitive to the 1980 Gwangju pro-democracy uprising. The campaign sparked criticism for allegedly appropriating the symbolism of the event without proper understanding or respect. Starbucks Korea has publicly apologized for the campaign and the resulting offense. The training aims to educate staff on the historical context of the uprising and prevent similar incidents. This incident highlights a sensitive and contested historical memory within South Korea, and the need for cultural awareness among international brands operating in the country. The move reflects a broader reckoning with historical issues and corporate responsibility.