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| Korean Haidilao Staff Member Sparks Buzz with Idol-Level Visuals (Photo: Dailyhansome) |
A regular night out at a Haidilao branch in Daegu has unexpectedly turned into a full-blown online talking point, after a waiter caught netizens’ attention for looking strikingly similar to K-Pop idol Cha Eun Woo.
What started as casual clips quickly snowballed into viral content, with many viewers doing double takes and replaying videos just to be sure their eyes weren’t playing tricks on them.
The clips show the waiter confidently performing Haidilao’s signature noodle dance, something customers usually enjoy for the fun theatrics alone. This time, however, it was his sharp features, calm expression, and polished vibe that stole the spotlight.
Netizens were quick to point out that the resemblance goes beyond facial structure, saying even his mannerisms felt oddly familiar to fans of the ASTRO member.
The timing couldn’t be more perfect. With Cha Eun Woo currently serving his mandatory military service and not expected to be discharged until January 2027, fans appear extra eager for anything that remotely fills the visual gap.
Some online comments jokingly referred to the waiter as a “temporary visual stand-in,” while others teased about making a special trip to the Daegu outlet just to see him in action.
Reactions online have been mixed but mostly light-hearted. A large group of fans are clearly amused, flooding comment sections with praise, screenshots, and playful comparisons. Many joked that ordering hotpot suddenly feels like attending a fan meeting, while others claimed the noodle dance now deserves its own encore.
On the other hand, more grounded voices have stepped in to remind everyone that the waiter is not a celebrity but a staff member simply doing his job.
Several netizens urged people to enjoy the moment without crossing boundaries, stressing that privacy and respect should come first, even when someone goes viral overnight.
There is also practical chatter making the rounds. According to posts shared online, those hoping to catch him at work might want to plan carefully, as he reportedly takes Tuesdays off.
Still, that hasn’t stopped speculation that the Daegu branch may soon see an influx of curious diners hoping for both hotpot and a front-row view of the famous noodle routine.
What do you think, is the resemblance uncanny or just clever angles and good lighting? Would you actually travel just to see him, or is this internet hype taken too far?