Jung Min-chan Withdrew From Musical After Backlash Over Starbucks Post
Jung Min-chan has withdrawn from the musical Diaghilev after facing major online backlash over a Starbucks-related social media post during an ongoing controversy involving Starbucks Korea.
The issue gained attention after Jung Min-chan uploaded photos showing a visit to Starbucks Korea while the company was already under criticism and boycott calls linked to a controversial marketing campaign. Following growing public backlash, production company Showplay confirmed that the actor would step down from the musical.

Why Jung Min-chan Faced Criticism
The controversy started after Starbucks Korea launched a promotional campaign connected to “Tank Day,” which coincided with the anniversary of the 1980 Gwangju Democratic Uprising — a highly sensitive event in South Korean history.
After Jung Min-chan shared Starbucks-related content online:
- Social media users criticized the timing of the post
- Some accused him of being insensitive to the controversy
- Online criticism quickly spread across Korean communities and forums
Initially, Jung Min-chan explained that he had not fully understood the situation because he had been busy and unaware of the ongoing issue. However, that response triggered additional criticism from some online users.
Jung Min-chan Leaves Musical Diaghilev
Following the backlash, Showplay officially announced that Jung Min-chan would withdraw from the musical Diaghilev, where he had been playing the role of Nijinsky.
According to the company:
- Discussions were held regarding the controversy
- The production decided his withdrawal was the best option
- An apology was issued to audiences and fans
The announcement quickly became a trending entertainment story in South Korea.
Jung Min-chan’s Public Apology
After leaving the production, Jung Min-chan shared another apology through social media.
In his statement, he said:
- He did not intend to create political controversy
- He failed to fully recognize the seriousness of the situation
- He understood why many people were upset
He also promised to act more carefully in the future.
What Was the Starbucks Korea Controversy?
The backlash against Starbucks Korea centered around a marketing campaign connected to “Tank Day” promotions near the anniversary of the Gwangju Uprising.
Critics argued:
- The campaign wording was insensitive
- References to tanks carried painful historical associations
- The promotion should have been reviewed more carefully
The controversy led to:
- Boycott calls online
- Public criticism toward Starbucks Korea
- Discussions about corporate responsibility and historical awareness
Starbucks Korea later issued an apology and reportedly suspended the campaign.
For more latest update, visit starbucks-menus.ca
Public Reactions Online
The incident created divided reactions online.
Some people supported the decision for Jung Min-chan to leave the musical, arguing celebrities should be more aware of sensitive public issues. Others believed the backlash became too extreme over a social media coffee post.
The controversy also sparked wider debates about:
- Celebrity responsibility online
- Public backlash culture in South Korea
- Historical sensitivity in advertising
- Social media accountability
Who is Jung Min-chan?
Jung Min-chan is a South Korean performer and former ballet dancer who later moved into musical theater and television appearances.
Before the controversy, he was actively performing in Diaghilev as Nijinsky.
FAQ
Why did Jung Min-chan withdraw from the musical?
He withdrew after receiving backlash over a Starbucks-related social media post connected to an ongoing controversy in South Korea.
What musical did Jung Min-chan leave?
He stepped down from the musical Diaghilev produced by Showplay.
Why was Starbucks Korea controversial?
Starbucks Korea faced criticism over a marketing campaign linked to “Tank Day” near the anniversary of the Gwangju Democratic Uprising.
Did Jung Min-chan apologize?
Yes. He issued public apologies and admitted he had not fully understood the sensitivity surrounding the controversy.
Did Starbucks Korea respond to the backlash?
Yes. Starbucks Korea later apologized and reportedly suspended the controversial campaign.
