South Korean prosecutors have sought a one-year prison sentence for the owner of a two-Michelin-star restaurant in Seoul who served ants as a dessert garnish, alleging violations of national food safety laws. Prosecutors also requested a fine of 20 million won ($13,510).
Ants are not among the 10 insect species approved for human consumption in South Korea. Investigators estimate that approximately 49,000 ants imported from the United States and Thailand were used in dishes over roughly four years. Health authorities found the ants contained up to 55 times more heavy metals than typical edible insects.
The owner admitted serving the ants on sorbets but argued they were offered only to consenting diners who could opt for alternative toppings. The court is scheduled to deliver its verdict on 2 September.