Chef Lim Sung-geun's Restaurant Opening Faces Rumors Amid Controversy

Chef Lim Sung-geun, who has faced public backlash due to his six criminal offenses, including multiple DUIs, is reportedly facing rumors that his restaurant opening has been canceled. This speculation arose after a 'For Sale' banner was spotted near the location. However, Lim's representatives have clarified that the restaurant opening is proceeding as planned.

On the 3rd, a representative for Lim 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 a photo of the building in Paju, Gyeonggi Province, where Lim is preparing to open his restaurant. The image showed a four-story building with Lim's photo on one side and a 'For Sale' banner on the other, with the entrance seemingly blocked, sparking rumors of the restaurant's cancellation.

Lim's representative commented on the post, suggesting it was written with malicious intent. They added, "It's a frustrating situation that would be difficult for anyone to endure."

The representative reiterated that the banner is unrelated to the restaurant and confirmed that the March opening is proceeding without issues.

Lim Sung-geun has previously been convicted of four DUIs, one instance of driving a motorcycle without a license, and one count of assault, totaling six offenses. Following the controversy, Lim issued an apology and halted all television appearances.

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