Flight attendants face backlash over prolonged, unattended occupation of Starbucks seats

Local media reported on Feb. 11 that the incident took place at a Starbucks Reserve branch near Gwanghwamun Square, adjacent to the U.S. Embassy in central Seoul.

The café’s owner said groups of flight attendants frequently left their luggage inside for extended periods while attending visa interviews at the U.S. embassy, The Korea Herald reported.

The attendants were said to arrive in groups of around 30 people in the morning.

According to the owner, they would order only five to 10 drinks before leaving their bags on seats for more than two hours, returning only after completing their appointments, Must Share News reported.

The issue appears linked to embassy security rules prohibiting visitors from bringing luggage inside, as well as airline policies requiring crew members to carry standardized uniforms and personal items even when off duty.

Airlines have typically provided bus storage for such visits, but the service in this case was reportedly discontinued.

The airline later issued an apology and said it would reinforce staff training, according to local reports.

Starbucks Korea, known for its comparatively relaxed seat-usage policy, has previously faced criticism over customers occupying tables for prolonged periods, including instances of setting up desktop computers or makeshift workspaces, Korean news site Chosun reported.

A Starbucks Korea official said customers are advised that leaving seats unattended for extended periods poses risks such as theft or loss, and are encouraged to take their belongings with them when stepping away.