Cafe Offering Free Coffee to Unvaccinated Individuals as a Gesture of Support Announces Notice

Cafe Owner "I Don't Want to Discriminate Against the Unvaccinated"
Notice Removed After Some Citizens' Complaints... "Free Coffee Event Will Continue"

An event was held at a franchise cafe in Bucheon, Gyeonggi, offering free coffee to those who have not been vaccinated against COVID-19. Photo by Online Community Capture.

[Asia Economy Reporter Yoon Seul-gi] It has come to light that a franchise cafe located in Bucheon, Gyeonggi Province, is holding an event offering free coffee to those who have not received the COVID-19 vaccine.

On the 21st, the cafe operator, Mr. A, posted a notice on the glass door of the store stating "Free Coffee for Unvaccinated." The notice included a disclaimer that it was unrelated to the headquarters and read, "It must have been tough dealing with society's judgment, right? Just come in and quietly mention that you are unvaccinated, and as a gesture of support, we will provide coffee for free. Stay strong! We support you!"

It also added phrases such as "Unvaccinated individuals are not virus carriers," along with "Oppose Vaccine Pass," "Oppose Youth Vaccine Pass," "Unconstitutional Policy," and "Good Rebellion."

On the same day, Mr. A explained the reason for holding the event through his social media. He said, "Rather than catering to a specific group of customers, I wanted the cafe to be a place where anyone can come and relax comfortably. However, contrary to my goal, the government is asking to distinguish unvaccinated people. I will not do that."

He continued, "They threaten to impose fines and suspend business, so I cannot allow unvaccinated customers to rest inside the hall, but with a feeling of apology and gratitude, I want to offer free coffee. I do not want to discriminate against unvaccinated people," he explained.

After this became known, netizens responded positively with comments such as "We support you, boss," and "Thank you for acting with conviction. We will support you until the end."

However, after some citizens directly complained to the franchise headquarters, the notice was soon taken down. Mr. A said, "Even though I added a caption stating it was unrelated to the headquarters, I was informed that complaints were made to the headquarters. Considering the potential harm to others (headquarters and other branches) caused by me, I agreed to take down the post," he stated.

Mr. A also said, "For now, I will continue to offer free coffee to those who are discriminated against. Anyone who sees the notice can come anytime and confidently mention it. We will welcome customers without discrimination and with gratitude," he said.

Meanwhile, the government announced the mandatory implementation of the "vaccine pass" (proof of vaccination or negative test). Accordingly, private gatherings nationwide are limited to a maximum of four people until January 2. Operating hours for multi-use facilities are restricted to between 9 and 10 p.m., depending on the facility.