Installation of a 'Tip Box' at a restaurant in Yeouido, Seoul sparks consumer backlash

A tip box installed at a restaurant in Yeouido, Seoul is causing controversy among consumers.

On the 27th, a netizen, referred to as A, shared a photo on their social media showing the 'Tip Box (TIPBOX)' placed at the checkout counter of a restaurant in Yeouido, expressing strong displeasure with the caption, "This is Korea. Do not bring in tipping culture. Don't pollute the waters."

In the photo shared by A, the red rectangular box labeled 'Tip Box (TIPBOX)' displayed the message, “Did you enjoy your meal? We always strive to provide the best service and dishes. Thank you.”

Upon seeing this, netizens reacted with critical comments such as, "There is no tipping culture in our country. Why is it being imposed?", "I've seen places that say they won't accept money if the food isn't good, but it's the first time I've seen a place ask for more money if the food is good," and "Tips should be given directly to the friendly staff, why put it in a tip box? The owner will take it all."

This controversy quickly spread across various online communities, and negative reviews such as "Why are they asking for tips?", "Do not bring in tipping culture," and "Seeing the tip box has completely erased the good feelings I had" began to pile up on the restaurant's review page.

In fact, this is not the first time that the tipping culture has caused controversy in South Korea. Recently, a cold noodle restaurant in Seoul included an optional fee of 300 won as a staff dining expense on their menu, sparking debate, and in the past, a famous bakery faced criticism and removed a tip box installed at their checkout counter after consumer backlash.

According to South Korea's Food Sanitation Act, restaurants must display the 'final price' that includes value-added tax and service charges on their menus. Thus, demanding an additional service charge from customers is considered illegal.

Despite these legal regulations, attempts to introduce tipping culture in some establishments continue, leading to ongoing consumer pushback.

Image source: A's shared photo of the 'tip box' / A's Instagram, online community