Baek Jong-won Frying Chicken Next to Gas Cylinder... The Born Korea Ultimately Fined

by Heo Midam

Published 20 Feb.2025 18:06(KST)

Baek Jong-won, CEO of The Born Korea, posted a video cooking indoors with high-pressure gas cylinders placed beside him, which ultimately led to a fine.

According to Yonhap News on the 20th, Yesan County in Chungnam decided to impose a fine of 1 million KRW on The Born Korea for violating the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Safety Management and Business Act.

YouTube channel 'Baek Jong-won'

Earlier, on the 2nd, a complaint was filed through the National Petition System alleging that CEO Baek violated the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Act. The controversial video was posted last May on Baek’s YouTube channel titled "Naekko Naemuk Baeks Beer. We even made this into a menu."

In the video, CEO Baek boiled oil and fried chicken over a brazier in the restaurant kitchen. However, two LP gas cylinders were placed right next to the frying area. According to current law, gas cylinders must be placed outdoors with good ventilation, and violating this can result in a fine of up to 40 million KRW.

The complainant pointed out, "The gas cylinders are openly placed indoors, and right next to the cooking equipment. This violates both the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Act and the safety regulations set by the fire authorities. If a fire breaks out, the entire building could be destroyed. It seems necessary to change the cooking environment."

As the controversy grew, CEO Baek’s side commented on the video, apologizing, "We should have been more thorough with safety rules and management, but there were shortcomings." They added, "The video was filmed to test equipment developed for a festival, with about 15 minutes of menu testing conducted while operating ventilation facilities to ensure sufficient air circulation. Additionally, a K-class fire extinguisher was prepared, and two gas safety managers accompanied and inspected before proceeding. All related equipment was removed after filming." They concluded by saying, "We will do our best to improve safety management going forward."