ICHILLIN' Joonie Speaks Out on Starbucks Sponsorship Backlash — 'I’m sorry, I ...'

A member of the renowned fourth-generation K-Pop ensemble ICHILLIN', known by her stage name Joonie, has recently found herself entangled in a contentious controversy.

Joonie stirred the online community after making a sponsorship request to Starbucks, a move perceived as insensitive amidst the ongoing discussions surrounding the Pro-Palestine boycott movement led by the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) campaign.

Navigating Controversy Amidst a Global Movement

The BDS movement has persistently advocated for a worldwide boycott of brands allegedly involved in or benefiting from the infringement of Palestinian rights, particularly those with ties to occupied territories.

With the persistent humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, attention has been drawn to the comprehensive list of boycotted brands shared by the Palestinian BDS National Committee.

Although Starbucks isn't explicitly listed by BDS, the brand hasn't been immune to scrutiny and calls for boycott from activists and sympathizers supporting the Pro-Palestine cause.

Despite not being directly implicated, the company has been under a cloud of suspicion, warranting careful consideration from public figures engaging with it.

READ ALSO: ICHILLIN Releases First Mini-Album 'Bridge of Dreams'

The Social Media Storm Unfolds

On February 19, Joonie posted a now-deleted image on social media, showcasing herself with a Starbucks cup alongside the caption, "Sponsor me Starbucks."

Almost immediately, her fans, deeply invested in her public image and mindful of ongoing global movements, reacted with swift criticism. They promptly alerted her to the implications of her association with a brand under such scrutiny.

Acknowledging the Misstep

In response to the backlash, Joonie addressed the issue directly through the Bubble app, a favored platform among idols for communicating with their fan base.

She issued a heartfelt apology, expressing remorse over her earlier post and promising to abstain from patronizing Starbucks in the future. Her message, succinct yet contrite, emphasized her commitment to learning and growing from the experience.

"I'm sorry. I won't buy from there (Starbucks). Thanks for letting me know."

- Joonie

Gratitude Amidst Adversity

Despite the turbulence, Joonie took a moment to express her gratitude to her steadfast supporters who continued to stand by her side throughout the ordeal.

Her acknowledgment of their unwavering support served as a testament to the enduring bond between idols and their fans, even in moments of controversy and misjudgment.

"No, I love you, thanks for loving me still."

Joonie's inadvertent entanglement serves as a poignant reminder of the responsibility that accompanies celebrity status, particularly in an age where social media magnifies every gesture and utterance. 

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Written by Cassidy Jones.