Man, 82, dies after eating ‘live octopus’ delicacy

In a tragic incident that occurred in Gwangju, South Korea, an 82-year-old man passed away on Monday after consuming a local delicacy called “san-nakji,” also known as “live octopus.” This dish, which involves chopped octopus served with sesame oil, is distinctive in that it is served immediately after chopping, causing the octopus pieces to exhibit continued movement.

The calamity began when the elderly man choked on this exotic meal, prompting a distress call to local emergency services. Regrettably, by the time help arrived, the man had already gone into cardiac arrest. Despite the valiant efforts of the fire station officials who attempted CPR, their endeavors proved futile.

To savor “san-nakji” safely, it is customary for diners to carefully cut the dish into smaller pieces and thoroughly chew before swallowing. This precaution is crucial due to the persisting motion of the octopus tentacles even after the dish is served.

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Octopus-Infused Delicacy’s Lethal Legacy: A Cautionary Tale for South Korea

What adds to the sorrow of this incident is that it is not the first of its kind in South Korea. Reports indicate that between 2007 and 2012, three individuals lost their lives after partaking in this delicacy. These tragic occurrences serve as a stark reminder of the potential risks associated with consuming certain foods, even those deeply entrenched in a region’s cultural heritage.

The phenomenon of “san-nakji” is intriguing and peculiar. It involves taking a deceased octopus, chopping it into pieces, and immediately serving it with sesame oil. This creates a visually striking and culturally significant dish. However, the risks associated with consuming live or semi-live animals are evident in this case.

Although “san-nakji” is a cherished culinary practice in South Korea. The unfortunate demise of the elderly man highlights the importance of exercising caution when indulging in such delicacies.

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