Chef Lim Sung-geun's New Restaurant Faces Scrutiny Amid DUI Confession

Chef Lim Sung-geun, who gained fame from 'Black and White Chef 2,' has recently admitted to past DUI offenses, drawing attention to his soon-to-open restaurant.

On October 16, Lim shared on Instagram, "Here's a sneak peek of my restaurant under construction in Paju's Simhaksan," along with several photos.

The images reveal Lim's first restaurant in the midst of construction, with his face prominently displayed on the building's exterior. The interior boasts an impressive space reminiscent of an indoor gymnasium. Lim expressed his excitement, saying, "We're preparing a spacious area to welcome many fans, so please wait just a little longer!"

Paju's Simhaksan area is known for its culinary hotspots like Simhaksan Acorn Noodles and Cheongsan Fish Soup. Lim's restaurant is expected to cover approximately 500 pyeong (about 1,650 square meters) and has been in the works for 18 months, with an opening planned between February and March.

According to a banner on the new building, the main dishes will be ribs and jjageuli. Lim has ambitiously stated, "For 20,000 won per meal, I will create unforgettable food."

Previously, on October 18, Lim uploaded a video titled 'Food and Alcohol' on his YouTube channel 'Lim Jjang TV.' In the video, he confessed, "I made mistakes due to my fondness for alcohol, having driven under the influence three times over ten years." This revelation led to a significant drop in subscribers, just as he was nearing one million.

Lim later issued a handwritten apology, stating, "I wish to confess and sincerely apologize for my past mistakes, which have weighed heavily on my heart." He acknowledged, "DUI is an inexcusable mistake, and I have faced legal consequences. I have spent the past few years reflecting and atoning."

In response, KBS2's 'New Release, Pyeonstorang' and JTBC's 'Knowing Bros' have canceled Lim's scheduled appearances.

By Dayeon Jeong, TenAsia Reporter light@tenasia.co.kr