How did the May 18 Tank Day promotion link to Gwangju?

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The May 18 "Tank Day" Promotion's Link to the Gwangju Uprising

The "Tank Day" promotion by Starbucks Korea on May 18 was directly linked to the Gwangju uprising as the date coincided with the 46th anniversary of the 1980 event, a sensitive period in South Korean history. Starbucks Korea named the promotion "Tank Day" in an effort to market large tumblers.
Coinciding with a Historical Anniversary

The chosen date for the promotion, May 18, held significant historical weight as it marked the 46th anniversary of the Gwangju uprising. This event involved a government crackdown on pro-democracy activists in 1980, during which tanks and troops were deployed. The official death toll from the crackdown stands at 165 civilians, though many believe the actual number is higher.
Marketing Tactic and Public Backlash

Starbucks Korea's decision to christen the day "Tank Day" for the purpose of marketing large tumblers was widely criticized as insensitive. The promotion evoked painful memories of the government's violent suppression of dissent, leading to a significant public backlash against the company. This controversy resulted in the dismissal of Starbucks Korea's CEO and a public apology from the chairman of Shinsegae Group, the operator of the chain.
Company Response and Training Initiative

In response to the public outcry, Starbucks Korea closed over 2,000 stores nationwide from 3 p.m. on June 22 for staff to undergo three hours of "historical and social awareness" training. The company stated that these sessions focused on historical and social awareness, alongside a commitment to Starbucks' mission and values. Stores remained closed for the remainder of the day, with staff receiving full pay for the time.

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How did the May 18 Tank Day promotion link to Gwangju?

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