Baskin Robbins Korea Issues Apology To IVE’s Wonyoung

Baskin Robbins, the major ice cream manufacturing company, has issued a formal apology to IVE‘s Wonyoung.

The apology came in light of the criticism against the company after it launched a new ice cream flavor with the name “Lucky Vicky,” a term originally coined by Wonyoung. The “Lucky Vicky Mochi” was released in Korea on November 8, KST, a week before the College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT) this year. The product was promoted as a treat for students preparing for the exams.

Shaped like a four-leaf clover, a classic good-luck charm, the “Lucky Vicky” ice cream quickly drew attention online. But it was mostly in criticism of the product name. The phrase “Lucky Vicky” was created by Wonyoung, combining the word “Lucky” with her English name, “Vicky.” She first used it on a fan communication platform to refer to her positive outlook toward life.

The brand’s usage of the phrase came under scrutiny since Wonyoung is neither a model for Baskin Robbins, and neither did they obtain her permission to use the phrase.

On November 11, KST, Baskin Robbins released a public statement, formally apologizing to the idol for their mistake.

We did not carefully consider the need for prior consultation with the artist involved during the planning process…We will strengthen review procedures to prevent a recurrence of similar issues.

— Baskin Robbins

Notably, the company stopped the sale of the new product on November 9, just a day after its launch, due to mounting criticism.