Black Ants in Dish Violate Food Safety Law! South Korean Michelin Two-Star Chef Faces 1-Year Prison Sentence

South Korean media reported that the owner of a Michelin two-star restaurant in South Korea has been indicted for violating food safety regulations by garnishing sorbet with black ants to 'add sourness,' with prosecutors requesting a one-year prison sentence.

According to reports, on the 20th, Seoul prosecutors requested the court impose a one-year prison sentence on the unnamed restaurant's de facto representative, who is suspected of violating food safety laws.

Under South Korean law, only 10 insect species are currently approved for human consumption, including locusts and mealworm larvae. However, the South Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety stated that the Michelin two-star restaurant allegedly served black ants imported from Thailand and the United States, which are not approved for consumption.

On January 18, 2025, a blue official vehicle arrived at the Seoul Western District Court. (AP)

According to South Korean media, the restaurant placed black ants on sorbet for customers to consume.

The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety stated that authorities launched an investigation last year, accusing the chef of placing three to five black ants on sorbet desserts 'to enhance sourness.'

The ministry's statement said that over the approximately four-year period up to January 2025, about 12,000 servings of the related dessert were sold, generating approximately 120 million South Korean won (about $81,000 USD).

A piece of evidence released by the Ministry showed a circular metal can labeled 'Cuisine Black Ants.'

According to South Korean outlet Newsis, in addition to the one-year prison sentence, prosecutors also requested the Seoul Western District Court impose a 20 million won fine.

The report stated that the defendant's lawyer claimed the black ant dessert was only served to customers who had previously consented.

The defendant stated in their final remarks: 'I deeply apologize for causing this incident due to my failure to fully understand the relevant regulations.'

The court is expected to deliver its verdict in early September.