When Sak Yiengjuntuek bought a restaurant in Myrtle Beach, he never expected to uncover $12,000 stashed away in an old cabinet. Without hesitation, he set out to return the money to its former owner, turning a simple discovery into a community’s celebration of integrity.
- Found $12,000 in an old tool chest after buying a restaurant
- Called the previous owner live on local TV to return the cash
- Community applauds honesty amid a challenging health situation
What happened
Sak Yiengjuntuek, the new owner of Lemongrass Pho & Thai Cuisine in Myrtle Beach, discovered a stack of $12,000 in cash hidden inside a sunglasses case within an old tool chest left by the previous owner. While preparing the restaurant for his new venture, he stumbled upon the forgotten money and immediately recognized it belonged to the former proprietor.
Despite initially struggling to reach the former owner by phone, Yiengjuntuek decided to tell his story on local NBC affiliate WMBF. During a live broadcast, he recalled having another contact number and successfully called the owner on air to inform him about the money. This direct connection allowed Yiengjuntuek to return the cash promptly, bringing relief and gratitude to the man.
Why it feels good
This story highlights the warmth of honesty in everyday life, proving that integrity still has a powerful place in communities. Yiengjuntuek's actions serve as a simple yet profound reminder to “do the right thing,” emphasizing character over personal gain.
Adding to the emotional impact, the former owner was facing significant health issues, making the timely return of the money even more meaningful. The Myrtle Beach community now celebrates Yiengjuntuek as a shining example of kindness and trustworthy behavior in challenging times.
What to enjoy or watch next
If this inspiring act of honesty brightened your day, there are more uplifting stories to explore, such as a Florida man who spent days searching to return $30,000 he found, or a teenager rewarded for immediately turning in $3,500 in cash. These tales reinforce the power of goodwill in everyday encounters.
For those interested in positive community stories, tuning into local news segments or following platforms dedicated to feel-good news can provide a steady dose of encouragement and hope. Authentic acts like Yiengjuntuek’s remind us that kindness and honesty create stronger, happier communities.