PremiumENHYPEN's Jake addresses backlash with a heartfelt apology, expresses gratitude to ENGENEs
Despite being cautioned about Starbucks' links to the conflict, numerous K-pop idols continue their affiliation with the brand.
Last Updated: 05.58 PM, Jan 06, 2024
Jake from ENHYPEN faced criticism when he was spotted drinking from a Starbucks cup during his livestream on January 5, 2023. Fans attempted to alert him during the live session, prompting him to switch to a glass instead swiftly.
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Despite this, some fans remained dissatisfied, leading Jake to declare that he would "stop drinking" and put the drink away.
Online, fans were quick to express their disapproval, pointing out that Starbucks is part of a boycott supporting Palestine.
Despite warnings about Starbucks' association with the conflict, Jake responded to a fan's post on Weverse, offering apologies for consuming Starbucks and expressing gratitude to fans for informing him.
It was encouraging to witness Jake acknowledging his mistake and adopting a positive attitude towards learning from it. He addressed the issue promptly, almost immediately after the conclusion of the live stream. Meanwhile, other celebrities have also faced criticism for endorsing the same beverage.
Among them are SEVENTEEN’s Hoshi, Jeon Somi, Kep1er’s Huening Bahiyyih, Yujin, and Xiaoting, IVE’s Liz, Wonyoung, Leeseo, Yujin, Gaeul, and Rei, TWICE’s Jihyo and Sana, EXO’s Chanyeol, ATEEZ’s Seonghwa and Hongjoong, Stray Kids’ Hyunjin and I.N, aespa’s Karina, CN BLUE’s Jung Yonghwa, Girls’ Generation’s Taeyeon, Super Junior’s Siwon, Lee Donghae, Red Velvet’s Seulgi, THE BOYZ’s Jaehyun, 2 PM’s Taecyeon and Chansung, BLACKPINK’s Jisoo and Jennie.
ALSO READ | BLACKPINK'S Jisoo to Jeon Somi: K-pop Idols criticised for sudden endorsements amid boycott uproar
The unanticipated endorsement has sparked vehement criticism as fans raise concerns about the idols' affiliation with a brand situated at the heart of a substantial international boycott.
Starbucks' stand:
On its official website, Starbucks denies sending any profits to the Israeli government or military, refuting rumours to the contrary. CEO Laxman Narasimhan stated earlier this week that protests and disruptions over the Israel-Hamas conflict were based on misinformation circulating online about the company's beliefs.