Seoul prosecutors are pushing for a one-year prison sentence against the anonymous owner of a two-Michelin-starred restaurant.

The charge? Violating South Korea's strict food safety regulations by serving black ants on a sorbet.

The ants were imported from Thailand and the US, but only 10 insect species are legally approved for human consumption in South Korea.

In his closing statement, the chef apologised for not fully understanding the rules. A verdict is expected in early September.

A high-end Seoul restaurant added black ants to its palate-cleansing sorbet for a sour kick — a bold move in the fine dining world.

The chefs argued it was a creative twist, and that only customers who consented in advance were served the dish.

But authorities say the insect topping is illegal, launching an investigation last year after complaints.

The case has sparked debate about where culinary innovation ends and regulatory violation begins.

Over nearly four years, the restaurant sold about 12,000 ant-topped sorbets, generating 120 million won (around $81,000).

Now prosecutors want not only a year in jail but also a 20 million won fine for the owner.

The legal trouble could destroy the reputation of a Michelin-starred establishment known for pushing boundaries.

With the court ruling set for September, the financial fallout is already hitting hard.

Michelin-starred celebrity chef faces jail for sprinkling dessert with ANTS

Michelin-starred celebrity chef faces jail for sprinkling dessert with ANTS

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Michelin-starred restaurant owner in South Korea faces jail for serving ants in dessert

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Owner of Michelin-starred restaurant in South Korea faces jail for ant-topped sorbet

Owner of Michelin-starred restaurant in South Korea faces jail for ant-topped sorbet

Michelin-starred restaurant owner faces jail in South Korea after topping sorbet with black ants

Michelin-starred restaurant owner faces jail in South Korea after topping sorbet with black ants

South Korea restaurant owner faces jail for ant sorbet

South Korea restaurant owner faces jail for ant sorbet

South Korea Michelin starred restaurant owner faces jail for ant sorbet

South Korea Michelin starred restaurant owner faces jail for ant sorbet