Van Gogh Museum Fires Multiple Workers For Pokemon Exhibit Misconduct - Report

Wild misconduct apparently appeared by a handful of Van Gogh Museum employees during a popular Pokemon exhibit over the past few months. As such, a new report says at least four workers have been suspended and won't be returning--including one who had spent 25 years there.

Eurogamer noted that Dutch site Het Parool reported on the Van Gogh Museum suspensions, which affected security guards and public service workers. Apparently one particular employee even stole a box of Pokemon cards during the special exhibit in Amsterdam for the franchise, which ran from late last September to January 7. Meanwhile, others supposedly provided ticket purchase information to people that broke codes of conduct for museum staff.

The Pokemon artwork for the Van Gogh Museum was announced in September. Apparently, scalpers swarmed the exhibit almost immediately to get their hands on special Pokemon promo cards. Pokemon merch for the Van Gogh collaboration then sold out days later, leading to The Pokemon Company apologizing to fans. Weeks later, the museum ended up just removing the Pokemon promo cards altogether because of safety concerns. The Pikachu with Grey Felt Hat was specifically sought after and can be seen above.

Similar issues struck a McDonald's Pokemon Happy Meal promotion back in 2021. Scalpers were reportedly trying to flip Pokemon trading cards that were included with the combo deals that are aimed at children.