A Seoul restaurant located in the prestigious Apgujeong district issued a formal apology following an incident involving derogatory language used by its employee in an Instagram story. The target of this offensive language was Chenle, a member of the popular group NCT Dream. Since then, the restaurant has confirmed that the staff member has been fired for their actions.
Chenle Gets Disrespected at a Restaurant
Chenle had visited Aewol Sikdang, a renowned establishment known for its expertise in preparing barbecued black pork from Jeju. The NCT member was joined by “EXchange” cast member Kim Tae Yi and the two set down to enjoy a meal together. However, an employee quickly recognized the celebrities and began posting their images on their Instagram story.
The invasion of privacy itself was already worrying but the employee made things worse by mocking Tae Yi. They also wrote derogatory terms about Chenle in one post, calling the Chinese idol “jjangkkae,” a rude Korean term similar to calling someone a “chink”.
Since then, the restaurant’s management expressed deep regret for the incident. In a statement posted on a new X account, they issued an apology to Chenle and Tae Yi. It was also confirmed that the staff member had been fired.
애월식당 압구정점 입니다.
천러 님과 태이 님, 팬분들에게 깊은 사죄의 말씀을 드립니다.
직원의 잘못도 모두 저희의 잘못이라고 생각합니다.
그러나 용납할수 없는 행동이기에 퇴사처리를 진행 하였으며
천러님에게는 개인적으로 바로 사과를 하여 양해를 구했습니다.
정말 죄송합니다.
— 1122 yy (@1122yy2) September 1, 2023
“This is Aewol Sikdang Apgujeong. We are deeply sorry to Chenle, Tae Yi, and their fans,” the statement read. “We believe that the mistake of one employee is the mistake of the entire restaurant. But we are firing the staff due to their unforgivable actions, and we have also personally directly apologized to Chenle, and have asked for his forgiveness. We are really sorry.”
It is unfortunate that Chenle and Tae Yi were disrespected during their visit to the restaurant. However, it is assuring that the restaurant has promised to take corrective action. Hopefully, they will foster a more respectful environment for all patrons, regardless of background or celebrity status.