Michelin-Starred Restaurant Chef Faces Jail in South Korea for Serving Ants As Dessert Topping

South Korean prosecutors have sought a one-year prison sentence for the owner of a two-Michelin-starred restaurant accused of serving ants as a garnish in desserts, according to local media reports. Prosecutors have also requested that the restaurant be fined 20 million Korean won (around $13,510) for allegedly using an ingredient that is not approved for human consumption under the country's food safety laws.

The case centres on the restaurant's use of ants as a topping for sorbets served as part of a 15-course tasting menu. Under South Korean regulations, ants are not among the insect species approved for consumption. Sachin Awasthi Viral Video: What’s the Rule for Entering South Korea’s Jeju Island Without a Visa?

Prosecutors Seek Jail Term And Fine

According to prosecutors, the restaurant violated food safety regulations by serving ants imported from the United States and Thailand over a period of four years.

Investigators estimate that approximately 49,000 ants were used in multiple dishes during that time. Prosecutors have asked the court to sentence the owner to one year in prison and impose a 20 million won fine on the restaurant.

Restaurant Says Diners Could Choose Alternatives

The restaurant owner admitted that ants were served but argued they formed only a "small part" of the restaurant's menu. According to the defence, the ants were used solely as a topping for sorbets, and customers were informed they could choose alternative garnishes instead.

The owner also argued that only 60% of diners opted to try the ants, while the remaining guests selected alternatives such as fermented vinegar or edible flowers. Additionally, the defence maintained that restaurants in countries including Australia, Denmark and the United Kingdom also use ants as culinary ingredients.

Investigation Began After Online Reviews

The case came to light after officials from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety reviewed online posts in which diners shared photographs of dishes topped with ants.

During the investigation, health authorities reportedly found that the ants used by the restaurant contained up to 55 times more heavy metals than typical edible insects, according to a report by The Chosun Daily.

Why Ants Are Not Approved In South Korea

South Korean authorities currently approve only 10 insect species for human consumption, including grasshoppers, locusts and two-spotted crickets.

Officials evaluate insects for food use based on several criteria, including food safety risks, toxicity, nutritional value, and whether they can be bred and processed hygienically.

As ants are not on the approved list, their use in food is prohibited under current regulations.

Verdict Scheduled For September

Court documents have not identified either the restaurant or its owner by name.

There are currently 10 restaurants in Seoul that hold two Michelin stars. According to the Michelin Guide, two stars are awarded to restaurants that offer "excellent cooking" and are "worth a detour."

The court is scheduled to deliver its verdict on September 2.

Ants Used As Food In Several Cultures

Although ants are not approved for consumption in South Korea, they are traditionally eaten in several countries.

Weaver ants and their eggs are commonly used in Thai and Cambodian cuisine, while queen ants are regarded as a delicacy in Colombia and are often compared to caviar.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 22, 2026 11:27 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).