A Michelin-starred restaurant in South Korea has found itself at the centre of an unusual legal battle after prosecutors sought a one-year prison sentence for its owner over the use of ants as a dessert garnish. Authorities allege the restaurant served around 49,000 imported ants over four years despite ants not being among the insect species approved for human consumption under South Korean law. Prosecutors are also seeking a 20 million won (about $13,500) fine against the restaurant. The case has drawn international attention because it raises questions about food safety regulations, fine dining innovation and the limits of culinary experimentation in one of Asia's most competitive restaurant industries.
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