Story perspectives

Police seek Interpol red notices after Xi restaurant vandalism

By Drooid · Sep 30, 2026, 10:26 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Chinese nationals vandalize

Four Chinese nationals vandalized the Xi Jinping restaurant in South Korea on Sept 24, 2026.
Police estimated damage at about 15 million won (?$11,000), including two computers and kitchen equipment.
The suspects, aged 20-40, fled to Shanghai and Yantai the same day.
Authorities will seek Interpol red notices, noting extradition may be difficult because China delays treaty compliance.

Summary

Restaurant owner reports harassment

The restaurant owner disclosed a year-long harassment campaign with 40-50 callers demanding a name change.
The proprietor said most pressure came from South Korea individuals rather than Chinese nationals.
Threats began in July after President Xi’s visit ahead of the Gyeongju APEC Summit.
Some complainants offered monetary compensation if the restaurant renamed itself.
Police are probing a possible mastermind organization after surveillance captured suspects filming the attack.

History

Historical Context

The 2019 Hong Kong anti-extradition protests, which drew over one million demonstrators on 9 June 2019 and sparked worldwide solidarity rallies, marked a sharp rise in anti-China sentiment. That backlash continued, leading to attacks on mainland-linked businesses abroad and, on 24 September 2026, four Chinese nationals vandalised the Xi Jinping restaurant in Seoul, prompting Interpol red-notice efforts.

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Chinese nationals vandalize

Four Chinese nationals vandalized the Xi Jinping restaurant in South Korea on Sept 24, 2026.
Police estimated damage at about 15 million won (?$11,000), including two computers and kitchen equipment.
The suspects, aged 20-40, fled to Shanghai and Yantai the same day.
Authorities will seek Interpol red notices, noting extradition may be difficult because China delays treaty compliance.

1 / 3