Chef Lim Sung-geun Denies Rumors of Restaurant Opening Cancellation Amid Past Controversies

Chef Lim Sung-geun, who has faced public backlash due to his six prior convictions including DUI, has denied rumors that his plans to open a new restaurant have been canceled. A 'For Sale' banner near the restaurant was clarified to be related to nearby real estate, not the restaurant itself.

On the 3rd, a representative for Lim Sung-geun told TenAsia, "The banner is unrelated to the restaurant we are preparing to open. There are other buildings and land nearby, and the banner likely pertains to those."

The previous day, an online community post shared photos of the building in Paju City where Lim was planning to open his restaurant. The images showed a four-story building with Lim's photo on one side and a 'For Sale' banner on the other, sparking speculation among netizens about potential issues with the restaurant opening.

Lim's representative told TenAsia, "It seems someone is posting these things maliciously." They added, "It's a frustrating situation that would be difficult for anyone to handle." The representative emphasized that the banner is unrelated to the restaurant and confirmed that the March opening is proceeding as planned.

Lim's past offenses, including four DUIs, one instance of driving without a license, and one assault-related conviction, have drawn public criticism. Notably, he was detained in 1999 for driving with a blood alcohol level of 0.153% and received a suspended sentence in 2020 for driving with a blood alcohol level of 0.14%.

As the controversy grew, Lim issued a public apology, stating, "I acknowledge my wrongdoings and will accept any criticism." He also announced his withdrawal from all broadcasting activities, including the shows he was appearing on. In response to excessive criticism directed at his family, including his 4-year-old granddaughter, Lim pleaded, "Please stop the attacks on my family."

Kim Ji-won, TenAsia Reporter bella@tenasia.co.kr