(The CEN News / Reporter Lee Ji-seon) Stones found in roasted chestnuts sold at a festival have sparked growing controversy.
On the 17th, Gwangyang City said a video circulating on social media showed stones inside a bag of roasted chestnuts purchased at the 25th Gwangyang Maehwa Festival.
The person who posted the video said they tried to buy 10,000 KRW (approximately $7.50) worth of roasted chestnuts using two local gift certificates valued at 6,000 KRW each (approximately $4.50 each), but the vendor said they had no change.
Online commenters criticized the festival’s management, and some speculated that organizers had accidentally handed out promotional bags weighted with stones to keep them from blowing away, which intensified the debate.
Gwangyang City confirmed the stall was operating illegally outside the permitted area and said it has stepped up guidance and enforcement.
The city has deployed 53 personnel across five sectors—building, roads, agricultural land, forestry, and food—to conduct inspections. If violations are found and not corrected, the city will pursue complaints or administrative action.
A Gwangyang City official said, "We will verify the facts and take necessary measures to protect the festival’s image. We will also increase on-site inspections for the remainder of the festival to minimize inconvenience to visitors."
The Gwangyang Maehwa Festival opened on the 13th around Maehwa Village in Daap-myeon and runs through the 22nd with exhibitions, performances, and hands-on activities.
Photo = Yonhap News
(The CEN News) Reporter Lee Ji-seon press@mhns.co.kr
