Gwangju pub apologizes for menu name linked to 5·18 slur

A pub in the Dong-gu district of Gwangju has faced intense backlash after naming a menu item ‘Pi Tteokgalbi’ (Blood Tteokgalbi). The term has been identified by netizens as a derogatory expression used in far-right online communities to mock victims of the 5·18 Democratization Movement.

The pub owner issued an apology, stating they were unaware of the term’s historical context and political connotations. The owner explained that they had used the expression thinking it was common slang among students and intended only to create a unique name for the dish.

Following the public outcry, the establishment has removed the menu item from its offerings and deleted all related social media posts. The 5·18 Memorial Foundation has reportedly received reports regarding the incident and is currently verifying the facts.