A recent incident at a Haidilao hotpot restaurant in Liaoning province, northeastern China, has sparked widespread controversy. A video showing a waiter performing a dance described as “vulgar” with a female customer has gone viral, eliciting criticism for its perceived inappropriateness. The episode has prompted discussions about the extent to which personalized services should go in the hospitality industry.
The dance in question is the Ke Mu San, or “subject three,” known for its significant hip movements. Originally a folk dance performed at weddings in the Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, it has gained popularity as an online meme, appealing for its dynamic moves and catchy music. The dance symbolizes the mental state of young Chinese burdened by intense pressure and workloads, with its name referencing the third part of China’s driving test.
Haidilao, renowned for its unique service approach, including noodle-making performances and complimentary manicures, had adopted the Ke Mu San dance across its outlets following positive customer feedback. However, the recent incident highlighted the potential discomfort such performances can cause. In response to the backlash, the restaurant chain emphasized that while employees are encouraged to personalize their service, customer comfort should not be compromised.
The incident has led to diverse reactions from customers. While some enjoy the energetic and engaging nature of the performances, others find them intrusive and excessive, especially in a family dining context. A recent incident in Hebei province, where a waitress was filmed performing the dance without smiling, further fueled the debate, highlighting the potential discomfort for both customers and introverted staff members.
Online reactions have been mixed, with some social media users on Weibo criticizing Haidilao for transforming the dining experience into something more akin to a club or ballroom. This controversy is not the first for Haidilao; earlier, the chain faced debate over accommodating a university student overnight and for refusing to seat a customer’s doll in a baby chair.
This latest incident at Haidilao raises crucial questions about the boundaries of customer service and entertainment in the hospitality sector. It underscores the need for a balanced approach that respects customer preferences and the authentic essence of cultural practices, without overstepping personal boundaries or compromising the primary focus on food quality and dining experience.
READ MORE: