South Korea’s Starbucks operator says its boss is apologizing again after a marketing campaign triggers backlash over references widely viewed as mocking victims of a 1980 massacre. Multiple outlets report that the campaign was criticized for evoking the 1980 military crackdown in Gwangju, where civilians were killed by South Korean security forces. The company faces public anger and calls for accountability, with critics saying the ads trivialize or disrespect the victims. In response, the Starbucks executive issues apologies, reiterating regret and acknowledging the offense caused by the campaign. The backlash highlights how sensitive the 1980 Gwangju events remain in South Korea’s public memory, particularly around symbolism and portrayals connected to the crackdown. The reports describe the apology as a response to the widening controversy as it spreads online and in public discussion. The outlets do not indicate that criminal charges have been filed, but the company’s leadership continues to address the controversy publicly.