4. Sannakji (Live Octopus)
Let’s start with one of the most shocking entries – live octopus, known as sannakji in Korean cuisine. Daring diners actually eat this small octopus while it’s still squirming on the plate.
As bizarre as it sounds, the octopus’ writhing tentacles pose a very real choking hazard if not chewed thoroughly.
There are frequent cases of the still-moving appendages clinging to a person’s throat, obstructing airflow and sometimes requiring emergency removal. Only the most skilled eaters can tackle sannakji without risking a terrifying trip to the hospital.