Police have mediated to restore utilities temporarily, with a key meeting scheduled for Monday to resolve the financial dispute in the presence of legal teams. (Image Source: Stocks)
A South Korean woman has accused the management of Global Foyer Mall in Gurugram’s Golf Course Road of harassment by repeatedly cutting the water and electricity supply to her restaurant. The incident came to light after she posted a video on social media, prompting police intervention.
Hyang Lee, owner of the Korean restaurant MISO, alleged in her video that the mall authorities have been disconnecting utilities despite her paying rent and maintenance charges.
“I have been running my restaurant legally for 14 years, complying with all Indian laws and licenses. For the past three years, the mall management and builder have been harassing me by illegally disconnecting essential services,” Lee said, according to PTI. “If no action is taken, I’ll be forced to return to my country with a bitter experience.”
Lee filed a complaint against the mall management at the Sushant Lok Police Station and also wrote to the South Korean Embassy, alleging that the authorities wanted her to vacate the leased premises.
The Gurugram Police confirmed that both parties met at the police station on Friday. Officials said Lee has operated her restaurant in the mall for around 14 years without major issues until recent disputes arose.
According to police statements, the mall management issued a notice to Lee demanding ₹9 lakh in damages. The management claims water leakage from her restaurant caused damage to the mall’s building.
According to reports, Lee's refusal to pay the sum heightened tensions and resulted in her utilities being allegedly disconnected.
A Gurugram Police spokesperson stated that an earlier meeting had temporarily resolved the dispute over electricity and water. However, the ₹9 lakh damage claim remains unsettled.
“A meeting is scheduled for Monday to address the remaining ₹9 lakh dispute. This will take place in the presence of legal teams for both parties,” the police spokesperson said.
Social media users have expressed worry over the treatment of long-term foreign business owners in India in response to the occurrence. Discussions concerning commercial tenancy issues and mall management's need to uphold equitable operating procedures have also been spurred by Lee's case.
While the legal process continues, Lee remains at her restaurant, awaiting the outcome of Monday’s meeting to determine whether she can continue operating without further interruptions.
