Police raid Starbucks Korea over 'Tank Day'

South Korean police searched the headquarters of Starbucks Korea (SBUX) in Seoul on 5 August 2026 as part of an ongoing criminal investigation into the company’s “Tank Day” marketing promotion. The search was carried out by the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, which confirmed the raid as part of efforts to gather evidence related to the controversy.

Investigators are examining whether the promotion amounted to the insult or defamation of victims and honorees of the May 18, 1980 Gwangju pro-democracy uprising. The raid marks a significant escalation in official scrutiny of the coffee chain’s conduct and response to the marketing campaign.

The dispute centers on a campaign launched on 18 May to promote Starbucks Korea’s large “Tank” tumbler line. The date coincides with the anniversary of the May 18 Gwangju uprising, during which hundreds of people were believed to have been killed by military forces.

Civic groups allege that the “Tank Day” branding and timing insulted or mocked victims of the democratization movement. Complaints filed by these groups led to a formal police investigation into whether the promotion defamed those associated with the historical event.

Following the public backlash, Starbucks Korea quickly withdrew the “Tank Day” promotion and issued an apology. The company’s operator also took further steps, including dismissing the Korea chief executive the day after the campaign was launched.

In June, Starbucks Korea shut all of its stores nationwide for an afternoon so employees could undergo mandatory training on historical awareness and social sensitivity. The measures were presented as part of efforts to address concerns raised by the promotion and to prevent similar incidents.

Media reports indicate that Starbucks Korea has experienced a significant decline in sales since the “Tank Day” controversy emerged. The sales downturn has coincided with calls for boycotts and sustained public criticism of the brand’s handling of the incident.

The outcome of the police investigation remains unresolved, and authorities have not yet announced any charges. The raid on the company’s headquarters underlines the seriousness of the allegations and adds legal uncertainty to the company’s efforts to repair its reputation and stabilize its operations in South Korea.