On May 31 KST, NCT members Taeyong and Renjun subtly hinted at the group’s ongoing merchandise collaboration with Starbucks Korea.

First, NCT’s leader Taeyong posted a succinct message on his Instagram story: the word “boycott.” Fans speculated that this message was directed toward the collaboration.

Next, Renjun updated his Instagram story with the word “peace” accompanied by specific emojis. These emojis appeared to reference the NCT x Starbucks Korea collaboration.

Meanwhile, the NCT x Starbucks Korea collaboration officially launched on May 30 KST, featuring three limited edition menu items and a variety of merchandise.

Interestingly, many overseas fans—especially in North America—are currently boycotting the global franchise Starbucks due to allegations of its support for Israel in the Israeli–Palestinian conflict.

When NCT announced their collaboration with Starbucks Korea, North American fans expressed disapproval and vowed to boycott.

However, Korean fans hold a different perspective. They believe that the political stance of Starbucks America does not necessarily apply to Starbucks Korea (SCK COMPANY Co., Ltd.).

The latter operates as a separate corporation, with its owner and largest shareholder being E-MART24 Inc., a subsidiary of the Shinsegae Group.

Although both companies maintain licensing contracts, requiring Starbucks Korea to pay royalties to Starbucks America for using the brand name and logo, the distinction remains.

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Former AOA member Kwon Min Ah—who opened up in the past about being bullied—has once again shared a deep and emotional message on social media, leaving fans feeling concerned and sending love.

On April 23, Min Ah took to her Instagram to write:
“I don’t know if I’ve become completely twisted, or if I’m just scared. Maybe I’m afraid the same thing will happen again. Everything feels scary. And I want to say something sharp to myself too—get it together.”

Along with the message, she posted a selfie where she wore a red knit top, had her hair half-up, and showed a soft pout with a calm expression. Though her outfit and style looked casual, the mood of her words felt heavy.

Fans aren’t sure if Min Ah was directing the message toward someone else or simply speaking to herself. The final line, “get it together,” sounds like a tough love reminder to herself—but also makes many wonder what she’s been going through recently.

People quickly filled the comment section with supportive messages, telling her to stay strong and reminding her she’s not alone.

Min Ah debuted with AOA in 2012 and left the group in 2019. In 2020, she made headlines when she revealed that she had been bullied during her time in the group. The confession caused a huge reaction in the K-pop world, leading to conversations about idols’ mental health and group dynamics.

Recently, she surprised fans when it was revealed she began working as a manager at a dermatology clinic, showing a new side of her life outside of the entertainment spotlight.

Fans continue to cheer her on, hoping she finds peace and happiness in whatever path she chooses next.

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