A South Korean chef has discovered a new way to end up in prison: topping his sorbets with sour ants

A two-Michelin-star restaurant in Seoul faces possible punishment after serving sorbet made with dried black ants, an ingredient not allowed under South Korean food rules.

Authorities said the ants had been used since 2021, prompting an investigation into violations of the Food Sanitation Act.

The Seoul Western District Prosecutors’ Office has asked for a severe sentence for the owner.

The case highlights that even high-end restaurants can face criminal penalties for using unapproved ingredients.