Julian Faces Backlash for Targeting Specific Business,
Issues Public Apology
Julian Quintart, a Belgian broadcaster and environmental activist who gained fame through the variety show "Non-Summit," issued a public apology after sparking controversy by openly criticizing a private cafe.
On September 22, Julian posted a photo of a cafe beverage on his social networking service (SNS) accounts, including Instagram and Threads, commenting, "Now there’s not just a double cup, but a triple cup," and calling it "over-packaging of over-packaging." He tagged the specific business account and added, "I hope those running the place will reconsider this just once more."
Having consistently raised his voice on environmental issues, Julian had previously criticized the use of double cups. Netizens responded to his latest post in agreement, saying, "This is definitely environmental pollution," and "It seems like a design flex." Some netizens also criticized the cafe in question.
In response, cafe owner A posted on an online community, expressing frustration. The owner wrote, "Our shop is being attacked because a celebrity publicly pointed this out," and added, "It would have been better if we had received a message in advance." A explained the necessity, stating, "We use small ice cubes made from natural ingredients to cool drinks quickly, so they melt fast and an insulated cup was needed."
A also clarified the situation through messages and comments but said there was no response from Julian. The owner added, "The number of people leaving hateful comments is increasing, and it’s frightening. I don’t know how to handle this, so I’m posting here (in the community)."
As the controversy spread, Julian deleted the post and issued an apology. He stated, "Tagging the shop was not a good choice," and admitted, "I should have contacted them in advance or hidden the logo completely. I have apologized directly to the owner." He continued, "My intention was to raise the issue of double cups, but things went in a different direction. I apologize for adding to the burden of small business owners."
He also said, "I was so shocked by the triple cup video that I acted without thinking things through. I now realize my approach was wrong and I am reflecting on it. Since this is a sensitive issue, I feel I must handle it more wisely in the future." He added, "I have suggested a way to compensate the owner for the damage," and reiterated his apology.
Julian is a Belgian broadcaster who became known through JTBC's "Non-Summit" in 2014. Since then, he has appeared on programs such as "Travelers at 25 O'Clock," "Earth Cleaners," and "Find Super K." He is currently active as an environmental activist, taking the lead in environmental protection efforts.
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