‘Don’t sell loneliness’: Korean restaurant refuses service to solo diners, sparks debate
Noodle outlet advertises sarcastic ‘options’ for people who want to dine alone as country faces rising number of single households
A restaurant in South Korea has caused controversy by refusing to serve solo diners as the country experiences an increase in the number of people staying single.
A sign outside the noodle restaurant in Yeosu City, South Jeolla Province in the south of South Korea, went viral on social media after an internet user who visited the eatery posted it online on November 17, according to a report by the Korea Times.
The notice said the restaurant provides four “options” for customers eating alone: pay for two servings, eat two servings, call a friend and come back with your wife next time.
It goes on to say in the form of a speech bubble: “We don’t sell loneliness. Please don’t come alone.”
The online post, which has been viewed 30,000 times, ignited a heated discussion, with most online observers criticising the restaurant.
“The mindset of the owner seems outdated,” one person said.
Another asked: “Why equate eating alone with loneliness?”
While a third user said: “The restaurant does not appreciate its customers.”