[10] The challengers argued the law defines public officials too broadly by including private-school employees and journalists.
[8] The law clashed with Korean traditions,[3][5] such as that the most senior person at a social gathering should pay the entire bill.
[5] Another controversy surrounds traditional gift baskets during holidays such as Chuseok, which usually are priced at 70–80,000 won.
[5] Since the law came into force, many Korean officials reported that they are cancelling dinners and splitting bills at cheaper cafeterias, which have seen increased number of customers.
[12] Some officials also reported that they can return home earlier, spending more time with their families, as the number of work-related gatherings, often lasting until late hours, have been sharply curtailed.
[12] A survey conducted by Gallup Korea in early October 2016 showed that the law is supported by 71% of Koreans.