The “Difference” In Netizens’ Reactions To Somi And LE SSERAFIM Yunjin’s “Starbucks” Controversies Sparks Debates

Some believe there is a bias involved.
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Koreaboo

Since November 2023, Starbucks has been under fire following allegations of promoting anti-Palestine ideals and reportedly terminating employees who expressed support for Palestine on social media. This led to a widespread boycott aimed at stopping the company’s alleged contributions to the ongoing genocide that was not initially included in official boycott targets.

The criticism of those continuing to engage the brand included K-Pop idols, as fans attempted to inform idols of the ongoing boycott.

Is Change Finally Happening? K-Pop Groups Begin Flaunting Other Coffee Brands On Socials Instead Of Starbucks

LE SSERAFIM‘s Yunjin was one star recently criticized for drinking from the brand.

While entering IU’s concert, Yunjin was spotted holding a Starbucks drink, much to the fans’ disappointment. Fans reflected on the artist’s goals and desires while feeling less than satisfied with a post made after the initial criticism.

However, some netizens have called out an alleged difference between how Yunjin and solo artist Jeon Somi were treated over their “Starbucks” controversies.

In late December 2023, Somi posted a makeup video that began with a sip from a reusable Starbucks cup from the company’s 2023 holiday collection. It was harshly criticized, leading to the video’s deletion and her addressing it later.

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Jeon Somi

Months later, according to fans, content posted by Somi has still been negatively received.

Fans commented on this, using a video praising Yunjin made only days after she was spotted with Starbucks to remark on the apparent differences in how the two were treated.

However, this unlocked another layer of debates over idols and pro-Palestine boycotts.

Yunjin and Somi were compared likely because they are both Americans and are perceived to have more knowledge of the ongoing protests, resulting in what some have called biased criticism.

Some netizens felt that other idols who engaged with boycotted brands were not treated as harshly as Yunjin and Somi, whose criticism moved to “fan war” type insults about their talents and appearances rather than holding them accountable.

At the same time, netizens have used BLACKSWAN Fatou‘s knowledge of the boycott to show that there is a chance that all idols, especially English-speaking ones who are more “online,” are aware of what is happening.

Ultimately, it seems what most want is the focus to remain on showing support for Palestine.

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