"Reusing Side Dishes During COVID-19 Is Unacceptable" 'Kkakdugi Reuse' Busan Pork Soup Restaurant Reopens

On the 7th, footage aired showing the gukbap restaurant reusing kkakdugi. Photo by BJ broadcast capture

[Asia Economy Reporter Jumi Lee] A pork soup restaurant in Beomil-dong, Dong-gu, Busan, which had closed for a while after footage showing the reuse of leftover radish kimchi (kkakdugi) was exposed, resumed operations on the morning of the 29th.

According to Busan Ilbo, the restaurant owner, Mr. Kang, said, "The fault is entirely mine. I am very sorry to the customers. I will work hard, so please support me," showing tears.

He said that he was unable to sleep for several days during the suspension of business and added, "In the COVID-19 era, reusing side dishes was something that should never have happened. Although there are many unfavorable views, I am determined to work hard with the mindset of starting over from the basics."

To dispel concerns about 'side dish reuse,' he also announced plans to create a self-service corner where customers can directly take side dishes such as kkakdugi, kimchi, salted shrimp (saeujeot), and soybean paste (doenjang).

Mr. Kang also posted a handwritten sign at the entrance of the restaurant that reads, "We will start anew with a fresh heart. Thank you."

Earlier, on the 7th, controversy arose when AfreecaTV BJ 'Pai' live-streamed a serving event at the pork soup restaurant run by his aunt, during which the reuse of side dishes was broadcasted as it happened.

The footage clearly showed one employee putting leftover kkakdugi from a customer back into the side dish container, and another employee taking kkakdugi from that container to serve it to another customer's bowl, leading to criticism from viewers pointing out the issue.

In response to the backlash, Pai apologized through his AfreecaTV channel, saying, "I sincerely apologize. The restaurant will immediately correct its hygiene management and will accept any penalties accordingly."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.