ENHYPEN member Jake faced scrutiny during his livestream on January 5, 2023, after being spotted drinking from a Starbucks cup. Fans had attempted to caution him about the sensitive matter, prompting Jake to quickly switch the cup for a glass. Despite this effort, dissatisfaction lingered among some fans, leading Jake to announce that he would refrain from further consumption, putting the drink aside. ENGENEs, the dedicated fanbase of ENHYPEN, promptly expressed their concerns and disappointment over Jake’s actions.
The controversy surrounding Jake’s Starbucks drink choice coincided with the ongoing boycott of the brand by many in solidarity with Palestine. Starbucks found itself at the center of controversy when it distanced itself from workers who had expressed support for Palestine, even resorting to legal action against them. This move by the company stirred widespread discontent, as customers criticized Starbucks for suing its employees over a humanitarian cause. The boycott gained traction, particularly in the U.S., where people felt Starbucks had taken an unexpected stance against the oppressed instead of supporting a just cause.
Amid efforts to alert Jake about the implications of supporting Starbucks in the context of the boycott, the ENHYPEN member responded to a fan’s post on Weverse. In his message, Jake apologized for his choice of beverage and expressed gratitude to fans for bringing it to his attention.
The incident showcased Jake’s ability to acknowledge and learn from his mistakes, demonstrating a positive and swift response shortly after the conclusion of the live stream. In contrast, other celebrities have faced backlash for endorsing Starbucks, raising questions about their alignment with public sentiments on social and political issues.
Jake’s willingness to address the controversy and adjust his behavior resonates positively with fans, highlighting the importance of continuous learning and sensitivity to global issues in the world of K-pop.
