The cast of the popular Netflix variety show has shared their visual editorials and reflections as the show nears its final episode, with just one more episode left before the ultimate winner is crowned. As the competition heats up, attention is focused on who will emerge victorious.
Among the final contenders, Baek Su Jeo, who secured the top spot in the “Endless Cooking Heaven” segment, has already earned a direct pass to the finale. Meanwhile, viewers are eagerly awaiting to see who will survive the final showdown between the two remaining contestants.
Hoo Deok Juk
Hoo Deok Juk, a master of Chinese cuisine who made it into the top three, shared his thoughts: “I still believe that cooking is an endless learning process,” he said. “I wanted to pass on my experience to younger chefs and learn from their energy and fresh perspectives.” Reflecting on his journey, he added, “Seeing young chefs doing their best in their respective fields reminded me of the passion and responsibility I’ve had towards cooking.” Hoo Duk Juk also expressed his gratitude, saying, “I’m sincerely thankful to all the viewers around the world who have shown interest in Chinese cuisine and my cooking. I will continue to serve honest dishes, infused with my name and philosophy, to repay this love.”
Venerable Seonjae
Venerable Seon Jae, Korea’s first certified temple food master, shared her reason for participating: “I wanted to share the wisdom embedded in Korean cuisine with more people,” he said. “Through this show, I hoped to convey the Buddhist principles of compassion and emptiness, and to inspire viewers to experience small moments of enlightenment, empathy and warmth at their own dinner tables.” He continued, “I saw how every chef was dedicated to their dish, giving their utmost, and this reminded me of the Buddhist practice of mindfulness and focus. Whether professionally or as a hobby, when one cooks with the heart, they are already on the path of enlightenment.”
Im Sung Geun
Chef Im Seong Geun, known for igniting a “sauce craze” in Korean cuisine, explained his motivation for joining: “I wanted to show the world how diverse and colorful traditional Korean cuisine is, beyond just fusion dishes or Haute Korean cuisine.” Im shared that his passion for cooking came from his desire to provide for his parents when he was young. “During tough times, I wanted to give my parents a meal they could enjoy, and cooking was the way I could do that,” he said. Im also expressed his appreciation for the young chefs he encountered in season two: “It was a pleasure to meet so many talented young chefs who introduced new stories and techniques in traditional Korean cooking. I learned so much from them.”
Jung Hoyeong
Chef Jung Hoyeong, a top Japanese cuisine chef in Korea, shared his reason for joining the show: “Watching season one, I thought, ‘How would I have handled that situation?’ I became so absorbed in the show that I decided to take on the challenge myself.” Cooking, for Jung, is a lifelong companion. “Being on this show gave me the opportunity to grow both as a chef and as a person,” he reflected. “I am deeply grateful for the love and support from viewers, and I will repay them with delicious food.”
Choi Kang Rok
Choi Kang Rok, who made a dramatic return to the competition and reached the finale, shared his unique reason for participating: “I joined to recharge my dopamine levels.” Reflecting on what he learned, Choi said, “The past version of Chef Choi Kang Rok helped shape the current one.” Citing author Han Kang’s Question, he left a lasting impression with his philosophical approach. “I believe that the viewers’ different interpretations of the characters will leave a small but meaningful impact,” he said.
Brewmaster Yun
Brewmaster Yun, a master of both brewing traditional alcohol and cooking, entered the competition with the goal of showcasing Korea’s diverse food culture. “I also wanted to be remembered as a mother who constantly challenged herself,” she said. For Yoon, cooking is about respecting the season, ingredients and those who enjoy the food. “Watching the other chefs cook made me want to continue this craft for a long time, with even more seriousness and passion,” she said. “I was deeply moved when viewers shared that they laughed and cried with me as I survived each round. I truly received a lot of strength and comfort from that support.”
Culinary Monster
Culinary Monster, one of the final three contestants, shared his reason for joining the competition: “There were many challenges in preparing to open my restaurant, but I wanted to test myself through cooking.” He continued, “I know it must have been uncomfortable for viewers to see me trying to maintain a confident front to avoid losing my spirit, but I’m grateful for all the support.” Reflecting on his journey, he said, “Throughout the filming, I worked hard to prove my skills, and I will continue to do so. Please keep supporting me.”
The winner of this thrilling competition will be announced in the upcoming episode, set to air on Tuesday, January 13th.
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Source: Netflix
