South Korean prosecutors are seeking a one-year prison term for the owner of a Michelin-starred restaurant in Seoul after an accusation that the establishment served dishes garnished with ants that are not approved for human consumption under local law. Multiple outlets report that the case centers on a palate-cleansing sorbet topped with black ants, said to be used to add a sour taste. The owner’s identity is not publicly disclosed in the reports.
Prosecutors argue the restaurant violated South Korea’s Food Sanitation Act and related food safety regulations, which allow only a limited number of insect species for consumption. Reporting also indicates the court request includes a fine: a 20 million won penalty is mentioned for the restaurant operator. BBC Sport reports that officials say the restaurant used tens of thousands of ants over several years, with one figure cited as 49,000 ants used in various dishes over four years.
The matter is being handled through the courts, following a hearing in which prosecutors presented their sentencing request.
