Diner’s Speed-Eating Demand Sparks Outrage at Yeosu Restaurant
Viral Video Shows Customer Rushed During Meal
A recent incident involving a customer at a popular Yeosu restaurant has ignited a firestorm online, after a viral YouTube video captured what many are calling unacceptable service. The footage shows a diner being aggressively pressured to finish their meal, leading to a premature departure and widespread criticism.
Customer Faced Pressure to Leave
The controversy began when a content creator, identified as Mr. A, visited five notable Yeosu eateries. During his visit to a Korean restaurant, Mr. A ordered food totaling 26,000 won. Despite the restaurant’s policy against single diners, Mr. A proceeded to eat.
However, shortly after beginning his meal, the restaurant owner reportedly began to rush Mr. A. According to the customer’s account, the owner repeatedly urged him to eat faster, with comments such as, “It’s not just one girl, my house is coming,”
“Eat quickly,”
and “It’s indefinitely.”
Mr. A stated that this harassment occurred just 20 minutes after his arrival. He noted that there were no patrons waiting outside, and other diners were present, yet the owner’s persistent remarks continued.
Customer Abruptly Leaves Meal
The situation escalated when Mr. A decided to leave, stating, “I think I’ll pretend.”
The owner allegedly responded, “I’m not going out.”
When Mr. A attempted to pay for what he had consumed, the owner insisted the full amount be settled, even as Mr. A asserted he could not continue his meal under such circumstances.
Online reactions have been overwhelmingly negative. Many netizens expressed disbelief at the restaurant’s behavior, with one commenting, “What kind of symbol do you want to get a guest?”
A patron who claimed to have visited the same establishment recently shared a similar negative experience, stating, “We also had a bad taste and left the shop.”
Another user suggested the treatment might be directed towards younger female customers.
Restaurant Responds to Allegations
In response to inquiries, the restaurant owner explained their actions. They claimed the intention was to address the customer taking photos without prior notice. “It was the purpose of paying attention to taking pictures of food without saying that I was taking a picture,”
the owner told Yonhap News TV.
The owner also added, “I felt bad because the original voice was so big, I didn’t do it on purpose.”
This statement suggests the perceived aggression may have been unintentional. However, the public response indicates a significant disconnect between the establishment’s intent and the customer’s experience.
Customer service expectations in the hospitality industry are high, with a 2023 survey indicating that 86% of consumers are willing to pay more for a better customer experience, highlighting the importance of positive interactions in retaining business (Forbes, 2023).
