NCT Doyoung Faces Backlash Over McDonald's Endorsement — Find Out Why
NCT's Doyoung recently celebrated a significant milestone in his career by signing an endorsement deal with McDonald's to promote their Happiness Burger.
Known for his love of the brand's burgers, fans initially shared in his joy as he officially partnered with the fast-food giant.
Unforeseen Complications Emerge
However, the elation quickly turned into controversy as fans and critics alike began to grasp the gravity of the situation.
The ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict has prompted global campaigns, with major brands like Starbucks facing boycotts due to perceived neutrality in the conflict.
McDonald's, too, found itself in the crossfire.
Fans Take a Stance
As fans learned about Doyoung's endorsement deal, a wave of discontent swept through social media.
Many argued that McDonald's, along with other brands, was indirectly supporting Israel, contrary to claims of neutrality.
Fans expressed their dissatisfaction, asserting that Doyoung's promotion of the brand felt out of place given the current geopolitical climate.
WE HAVE SEEN THEM FEEDING IDF SOLDIERS WITH OUR OWN TWO EYES COME ON NOWWWWW
— 🐻 | JISUNG DAY🐹 (@childreamlhc) December 25, 2023
they’re sponsoring the idf, giving them free meals while palestinians are left to starve, and you’re saying they’re not playing a direct role? https://t.co/hVrdTEYGaB pic.twitter.com/JZpeGSOzMN
McDonald's is not seen as playing a direct role in sustaining Israeli violationshttps://t.co/DNrhjZ27D3 pic.twitter.com/MkCXT9TTIJ
— 유비아 (@do0_lluvia) December 25, 2023
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On December 25, 2023, Doyoung posted a Christmas greeting on Instagram, including a photo of a snowman with a McDonald's container.
Fans deemed the post tone-deaf, especially considering recent attacks on churches and Christians in the Gaza Strip by Israeli forces.
Criticism escalated, flooding Doyoung's Instagram comments with dissenting opinions.
Divided Opinions on McDonald's Connection
Some fans defended Doyoung, arguing that the Korean branch of McDonald's is independent of the conflict.
They highlighted the brand's charitable efforts, with ₩100 KRW (about $0.08 USD) donated per Happiness Burger sold in South Korea to support disadvantaged children.
However, critics countered that McDonald's Korea operates under the headquarters, similar to other Asian branches, challenging the notion of complete detachment from the conflict.
McDonald's is not seen as playing a direct role in sustaining Israeli violationshttps://t.co/DNrhjZ27D3 pic.twitter.com/MkCXT9TTIJ
— 유비아 (@do0_lluvia) December 25, 2023
여러분 인도네시아 콘서트에서 테러를 하겠다는 글도 있고 심지어 자카르타에서 팬싸인회도 있기 때문에 큰 위협이 될 수 있을 것 같아요 안전에 관련된 예민한 사항이니 광야 119에 신고를 해야 할 것 같아요
— 비 (@lv_do0_21) December 26, 2023
As tensions mounted, Doyoung faced severe backlash, including alleged threats against him, particularly concerning upcoming Jakarta promotions.
Concerned fans urged reporting the matter to SM Entertainment's artist protection unit, citing potential dangers during concerts and fansign events.
Silence from SM Entertainment and Doyoung
Despite the growing controversy, both SM Entertainment and Doyoung have remained silent on the matter, leaving fans and netizens eagerly awaiting an official statement to address the escalating situation.
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KpopStarz own this article.
Cassidy Jones wrote this.
