A restaurant in Yeosu, South Jeolla Province, that gave a female YouTuber eating 'honbab' (eating alone) the hint to 'eat faster' became controversial and eventually posted an apology.
On the 20th, a photo of the apology letter posted on the restaurant's entrance was shared in an online community. The letter was handwritten, stating, "I apologize for causing trouble. From now on, I will serve customers kindly and gently. I am sorry."
The controversy arose when, on the 3rd, a female YouTuber posted a video titled 'A restaurant that gave a hint after 20 minutes for dining alone with two portions.' The video included scenes where the owner told the YouTuber during her meal, "It's not just one young lady coming," "Hurry up and eat," and "If you stay like this, it will be unlimited (time)." This restaurant was introduced as the top eatery in the Yeosu episode of the YouTube show 'TtoGanjip,' hosted by the YouTuber and broadcaster, Pungja.
This YouTuber ordered two portions worth 26,000 won after being told that ordering for one person was not allowed. The time she entered the restaurant was 10:40 a.m., and there were relatively few customers. Flustered, the YouTuber explained, "It doesn't take that long to eat. I have only been here for 20 minutes," but the restaurant responded, "So? With 20,000 won?" The YouTuber ultimately tried to stop eating and leave. The owner said, "Just go (since I won't take your money)," but the YouTuber completed the payment via bank transfer.
As the controversy grew, Yeosu City conducted an on-site inspection of the restaurant on the 16th. The owner reportedly told city officials, "The YouTuber filmed the video without consent, and it seems there was some misunderstanding due to her loud voice."
Yeosu City then sent out an official notice on the 17th to around 5,000 restaurant owners in the area titled 'Request for cooperation in courteous service by restaurant operators and staff,' stating, "It was reported in the media that a restaurant owner urged a customer to eat quickly in a loud voice. We ask that restaurant operators and staff provide customers with more courteous and polite service."
The official notice included points such as: ▲ Do not force customers to order more than two portions when visiting alone ▲ Ensure customers' right to choose seating and adequate eating time ▲ Greet and guide customers in a gentle tone ▲ Provide detailed explanations about menu items, ingredients, cooking methods, and prices.