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.

Source [1]

Broadcaster Park Seul Gi recently shared a heartwarming update about her reunion with actor Byeon Woo Seok, proving that his kind and gentle personality hasn’t changed at all.

On April 2nd, Park Seul Gi posted several photos on her social media, along with the caption, "It’s been a while since I saw Woo Seok, and he is still so kind and gentle".

The photos featured Park Seul Gi hosting a fan meeting event for Byeon Woo Seok, organized by a coffee brand.

In the pictures, Park Seul Gi and Byeon Woo Seok looked close and friendly, highlighting their strong bond. Byeon Woo Seok, standing at 190 cm, even bent down to match Park Seul Gi’s height, showcasing his thoughtful nature.

Park Seul Gi shared more about the event, saying, "I made a meeting that felt like a fairy tale, with actor Byeon Woo Seok and the adorable ‘Tong Tong’ (the nickname for Byeon Woo Seok’s fan club) all gathered together! There were many moments where my heart raced, but it was an hour where I stayed focused and did my best."

She also expressed her gratitude, saying, "I’m really thankful for and happy about the Tong Tong fans who always greet me warmly, not just actor Woo Seok. Is there any April Fools’ Day more unbelievable than this!? Let’s run through April with energy!"

Park Seul Gi, who married a non-celebrity in 2016 and has two daughters, continues to stay busy hosting various events.

Byeon, who gained love through the tvN show Lovely Runner, has already chosen his next project, the upcoming MBC drama 21st Century Prince's Wife.

He’s also been making a positive impact, recently donating 100 million won to the Hope Bridge National Disaster Relief Association to help wildfire victims.

Source: [1]