"Fined for Ordering in Korean"... Jeonju Japanese-style Tavern Finally 'Closes Down'

The entire menu of a Japanese-style pub in Jeonju. Photo by Online Community Capture

The entire menu board of a Japanese-style pub in Jeonju. Photo by Online Community Capture

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Bong-ju] A tavern in Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do, which had a rule that food orders must be placed in Japanese, decided to close down after sparking controversy online.

On the 3rd, the tavern owner, Mr. A, announced through the establishment's website, "Thank you for the past six years. Due to health reasons, I have made the difficult decision to close the business."

Mr. A wrote, "During my 22 years living in Japan, I received a lot of help and support from the Japanese people around me. After returning to Korea, I wanted to create a space where Koreans who have never been to Japan could experience Japanese food, the Japanese language, and Japanese culture, and contribute in some small way to improving relations with Japan by offering an indirect experience of an izakaya in Japan. That was the concept when we opened."

He added, "It seems that my short-sightedness may have caused some problems, and I am currently reflecting and refraining from activities. I have never received or paid any fines," he said.

Photo by Seonsuljip website capture.

Earlier, on the 30th of last month, a post titled "Unique Japanese-style Tavern" rapidly spread on online communities.

According to the tavern's notice and menu revealed in the post, the notice stated, "When you open the door and enter, you can experience a tavern just like one in Japan."

The notice said, "Please place your orders strictly in Japanese. A fine of 500 won will be imposed if you order in Korean."

It added, "Please use the basic conversational phrases provided on the table. The fines will be donated to underprivileged children."

It is reported that this notice has been in effect since before 2019.