The treatment of celebrities in Korean prisons has sparked a heated debate, especially regarding the quality of food provided to those who have been incarcerated. Recently, actor Yoo Ah In and singer Kim Ho Jung have made headlines, not only for their crimes but for the meals they are receiving while behind bars.
Yoo, currently detained in the Seoul Detention Center after being sentenced for drug-related charges, is expected to spend his first Chuseokin confinement.
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Similarly, Kim Ho Jung, who was arrested for dangerous driving and attempting to cover up the incident, is being held in solitary confinement.
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However, it is the prison meals that have drawn much public attention.
According to the detention center’s meal plan for the holiday, breakfast will consist of bread, jam, soup, a boiled egg, and soy milk. Lunch and dinner will feature traditional Korean dishes such as potato soup, stir-fried squid, and soybean paste stew. The detention center has also confirmed that special Chuseok meals will be served, as is the custom for inmates during the holiday.
Such disclosure has ignited public outrage, with many questioning why individuals convicted of crimes should receive what they consider to be generous treatment, including special meals and access to televisions. The issue has resonated particularly deeply with those who feel that resources should be allocated to more deserving causes, such as helping underprivileged children.
While prisons typically provide basic meals for their inmates, the quality of food and perceived comforts such as TV access have raised concerns among the public.
- “Why are they giving special meals to criminals… They should make them starve so they can repent for their crimes.”
- “So what? Let them starve a bit.”
- “They’re living in luxury. Why are we treating criminals so well? And they even get a TV… That money should be used to feed starving children.”
- “Make them work for their food. Why are prison meals so good?”
- “What’s wrong with this country? Are we really talking about the human rights of criminals? How about focusing on the victims for once?”
- “Why are the meals so good?”
- “They’re eating well, huh…”
Source: TheQoo and Newsis