South Korean prosecutors seek jail for Michelin chef over ant dessert

A Seoul court may sentence the owner of a two-Michelin-star restaurant to one year in prison for serving an ant-topped sorbet, violating South Korea's strict food safety regulations. The prosecution has also requested a fine of 20 million won (≈$13,500) against the restaurant company. The verdict is expected on September 2.

The case

The restaurant, identified by international media as Evett in Gangnam district, served ants imported from the U.S. and Thailand on a sorbet dish between 2021 and 2025. According to the prosecution, the dessert was sold 12,200 times, generating 120 million won (≈$81,000), and required about 49,000 ants. The owner, believed to be chef Joseph Lidgerwood, apologized in court, stating, "I apologize for this incident, which arose because I did not fully understand the relevant regulations" Source: Clarín.

The law and health concerns

South Korea permits only ten insect species for human consumption, including grasshoppers and silkworm pupae; ants are not on that list Source: La Vanguardia. Additionally, health authorities found that the ants contained heavy metal levels up to 55 times the maximum allowed for edible insects Source: CNN. The restaurant did not seek the required temporary approval for unauthorized ingredients.

The defense

The defense argued that only about 60% of customers chose the ant option, with alternatives offered to others. They also claimed the chef used ants in previous roles abroad and was unaware of the prohibition in South Korea Source: El Mundo. The restaurant maintained that the ants were clearly listed on the menu and served only with consent.