How Starbucks Korea Champions Inclusion for People with Disabilities
By empowering partners with disabilities and creating welcoming spaces, Starbucks is building a workplace and community where everyone feels respected, supported, and inspired to thrive.
At Starbucks Korea, inclusion is a core value embedded in daily operations. By empowering partners (employees) with disabilities and creating welcoming spaces, Starbucks is building a workplace and community where everyone feels respected, supported, and inspired to thrive.
Creativity with a Cause: Art Contest for Young Artists with Disabilities
Starbucks Korea champions creativity through its Art Contest for Young Artists with Disabilities, now in its fifth year. Supported by proceeds from the Community Store at Seoul National University Dental Hospital (SNUDH), the contest invites young artists to express their unique perspectives through art.
This year’s theme, “Belonging,” encouraged artists to reflect on inclusion, respect, and open-minded communication. A total of 275 young artists submitted their work, with 21 winners honored at an awards ceremony held on June 19th.
The grand prize went to Anna for her piece “Any Color or Shape is Fine,” which beautifully conveyed the message that our differences make us whole. Gold prizes were awarded to So-Hyun for “Summer LOVE” and Kyung-Ryong for “Connecting Differences and Running Towards Starlight.” These winning designs will be transformed into Starbucks merchandise, allowing customers to support inclusive artistry with every purchase.
To date, Starbucks Korea has introduced 14 merchandise items and mobile cards featuring artwork from young artists with disabilities. For each purchase made at Community Stores or online, 300 KRW (approximately $0.22 USD) is donated to support employment and disability-inclusion awareness programs.
The 21 winning works from this year’s contest will also be exhibited at locations including the Healing Gallery at SNUDH, Starlight Art Gallery at Starbucks Gwacheon DT, and several other Starbucks® stores across Korea.
A Store with a Mission: The Community Store at SNUDH
Inclusion is also reflected in Starbucks Korea’s physical spaces, and the Community Store at SNUDH is a powerful example. A portion of the store’s profits are reinvested into programs that support people with disabilities, including job training and community engagement initiatives. Of the 15 partners working at the store, more than half are partners with disabilities. It’s a space where every cup of coffee contributes to a greater cause.
“Our Pike Place Roast, which represents the first Starbucks® store, is a blend of various beans from Latin America that enhance the flavor. Just like this blend, our partners come together to deliver the best service to every customer—regardless of ability,” said Pia, Store Manager at SNUDH.
Celebrating Talent: The Barista Contest for Partners with Disabilities
One inspiring initiative is the annual Barista Contest for Partners with Disabilities. This event is more than a competition—it’s a celebration of skill, passion, and perseverance. Partners showcase their coffee craftsmanship and customer service excellence, demonstrating that talent knows no boundaries. The contest fosters confidence, builds community, and highlights the diverse abilities that enrich the Starbucks experience.
Recognized for Impact
As of 2025, Starbucks Korea employs 465 partners with disabilities, including approximately 10 percent in management roles. In 2024, the company was once again recognized by the Korean Ministry of Employment and Labor as an exemplary company for inclusive hiring—its fourth consecutive recognition, awarded every three years.
Brewing a Better Future
Through these initiatives and more, Starbucks Korea is shaping a more inclusive future—one where everyone can thrive. Whether through a barista’s skilled hands, a tumbler’s inspired design, or a store’s community impact, Starbucks proudly stands for inclusion, every day.
