With just four episodes into its run, ‘Queen of Tears’ has already achieved widespread acclaim, earning high ratings and praise from viewers and critics alike. However, amidst its rising popularity, the drama recently found itself embroiled in controversy, sparking heated debates among international viewers.
The contentious moment unfolded in episode 4, where keen-eyed viewers caught a glimpse of Hyun Woo sipping from a Starbucks cup. While seemingly innocuous, this brief appearance of the global coffee chain stirred up a storm of controversy, particularly among those partaking in the ongoing global boycott against Starbucks amid the Israel-Palestine conflict.
The appearance of Starbucks in ‘Queen of Tears’ raised immediate concerns due to the widespread calls for boycott against the company over its perceived involvement in certain controversies surrounding the conflict. While Starbucks itself wasn’t explicitly listed by BDS (Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions), its alleged ties to controversial issues, including a lawsuit against employees expressing solidarity with Palestine, fueled the boycott movement.
Despite arguments that international branches of Starbucks may operate independently from the parent company and its policies, disappointment lingered among international viewers of ‘Queen of Tears’. Many expressed their dismay at the apparent oversight, highlighting the need for greater sensitivity and awareness in media representation. However, it’s essential to acknowledge that the scenes featuring Starbucks cups were likely filmed before the boycott gained widespread traction.
