Gong Cha manager faces backlash for insensitive comments after plane crash in South Korea

On December 29, 2024, a Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 crashed in South Korea, killing 179 people. The incident occurred when the plane failed to deploy its landing gear at Muan airport. In response to the tragedy, a manager at Gong Cha, a bubble tea chain, reportedly told staff to contact him before their families in case of a crash. This directive was shared by an intern and sparked outrage on social media. Gong Cha issued a public apology after the backlash, stating they are investigating the manager's conduct. The company acknowledged the inappropriate nature of the comments made.