Gwangju Bar Sparks Backlash Over Menu Item Mocking May 18 Victims

[Anchor] A bar in Gwangju is facing fierce criticism because of the name of a single menu item.

[Reporter] What kind of name was it to cause such a reaction?

Recently, photos were shared on social media showing that a newly opened bar in Dong-gu, Gwangju, listed a dish named "pi tteokgalbi" (bloody grilled short rib patties).

This expression is known to have been used in some online communities as a derogatory term mocking the victims of the May 18 Democratization Movement.

As the controversy grew, the owner explained, "I didn't know the expression had that kind of meaning," adding that there were no political or social intentions whatsoever, but the criticism continued.

The owner posted another apology, stating, "It was wrong of me not to look into it thoroughly and to be inconsiderate," expressing remorse once again.

The menu item has currently been removed, and the May 18 Memorial Foundation is also known to have received related reports and is verifying the facts.

(Photo courtesy of Threads)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.