Owner of South Carolina Restaurant Finds $12,000 and Returns Money to Previous Owner Who Left It Behind

In a heartwarming tale of integrity, Sak Yiengjuntuek, the owner of Lemongrass Thai Restaurant in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, has been praised for his honesty after making an unexpected discovery while cleaning up his establishment. Following a prolonged closure due to a fire that erupted at a nearby furniture outlet, Yiengjuntuek was left with the task of tidying up the restaurant before reopening.

While tidying a cabinet, he stumbled upon a significant sum of cash amounting to $12,000, cleverly concealed in a sunglasses case. “I was in shock,” Yiengjuntuek recalled of the moment he realised what he had found. Faced with a dilemma that could easily tempt any individual, he felt an immediate responsibility to track down the original owner of the money.

The discovery came shortly after Yiengjuntuek had taken over Lemongrass Thai Restaurant in April 2025, and he was determined to return the money to the previous owner. That man, an older individual who previously ran a Vietnamese restaurant from the same location, had unfortunately left the cabinet behind when Yiengjuntuek assumed ownership.

Determined to do the right thing, Yiengjuntuek reached out to local media outlet WMBF, keen to publicise his efforts to find the rightful owner. Initially, his attempts to contact the previous proprietor were thwarted by a disconnected phone number. However, he persevered and eventually succeeded in locating a valid phone number saved under a different name.

After successfully reaching the previous owner, Yiengjuntuek learned that the man was battling cancer and desperately needed financial assistance at this difficult time. “He was overwhelmed with gratitude,” Yiengjuntuek shared, noting the emotional response from the former owner, who was almost brought to tears by the act of kindness.

Yiengjuntuek described the satisfaction he felt in returning the money, stating, “It’s the right thing to do.” This sentiment reflects the values instilled in him by his family, who emphasised the importance of honesty throughout his upbringing. “I’ve always believed that you must do what is right, especially in tough situations.”

Since the incident, the news has spread throughout the community, leading to an influx of appreciative customers at Lemongrass Thai Restaurant. Yiengjuntuek expressed his pride in what he had done, feeling that his integrity had been recognised and valued by the local community. “I’m very proud of myself,” he added, underscoring the positive feedback he has received from visitors who admire his moral compass.

As the story circulates, it serves as a reminder of the power of honesty and compassion, particularly in challenging circumstances. Yiengjuntuek’s actions are a testament to the fact that integrity often goes beyond financial considerations, resonating deeply with the values we hold as individuals and within our communities.

Lemongrass Thai Restaurant has since reopened its doors, with Yiengjuntuek hopeful that customers will not only come for the culinary experience but also to support a local business with a heartfelt story. His commitment to doing the right thing has certainly made an impact, enhancing the restaurant’s reputation as one of honour and respect within Myrtle Beach.