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By Kim Se-jeong
The Korea Times readers were divided in their responses over a local coffee franchise's recent move to add "An Americano for your coffee delivery rider" for 1,000 won to its menu.
Last week, an unidentified coffee franchise introduced the option as a way to tip delivery drivers, triggering an online debate across Korean-language platforms. The Korea Times undertook a survey, asking its Facebook followers, "What's your take?"
As of Monday, 14 respondents showed clear support among 49 who replied.
"There are some days we are outside or just want a nice warm cup of coffee delivered and they are always so quick and efficient I would be happy to have the option to purchase them a warm drink as well," Danielle Ramos wrote.
"I don't mind paying extra for the rider. It's just a token of appreciation for their hard work & dedication to make sure that our delivery arrives on time," Rae Racheel wrote. "I am just concern if he can drink up so many cuppa per day?― or better to give him cash vouchers instead."
Rae's suggestion for the cash gift was supported among those who didn't support the franchise's move. In fact, non-supporters didn't like the move because it was not a cash donation.
"I am sure they want cash and not a coffee… bc in summer they have to pay for ac (air conditioning) at home and in winter they need the heater which nowadays is expensive," wrote Mery Kim, one of the 13 commenters who were against the idea. "So no coffee and as an option an extra cash for his service [optional]."
Reine Semaan suggested, "Give them the money instead… what if they don't drink coffee?"
Bob Jansen added, "I'm sure delivery drivers would prefer the money."