Chef Lee Ha Sung, better known to fans as the “Culinary Monster” on Netflix’s Culinary Class Wars 2, has apologized following backlash over his on-screen attitude.
Culinary Monster’s Apology
In a video interview released on Netflix Korea’s YouTube channel on December 14th, the New York-based chef addressed the criticism regarding his intense demeanor.
“I was desperate during filming,” Lee confessed. “I had been fortunate to work in good restaurants, but the realization that opening my own place didn’t guarantee success wore me down. I felt that if I didn’t achieve good results here, everything I had done until then could amount to nothing.”
He admitted that this pressure affected his behavior. “This led to my actions, words and overall demeanor being expressed more intensely. Consequently, I believe I caused discomfort to many people.” He apologized to both the production team and viewers, adding with a smile, “I will remain a chef cooking in the kitchen. If you come to New York, please come and dine.”
Behind the Battles
Lee also reflected on key moments from the show. He revealed the had previously worked together with Chef Son Jong Won at L’Amant Secret. “I thought we could easily work together, which is why I chose him for the team mission,” he explained.
However, when they later became competitors, Lee admitted the situation was daunting. “I thought it was horrendous… Even now, he is an excellent chef with great form, and I wondered, ‘Can I really win?'”
He also shared a touching moment from the semi-final round against veteran Chef Hou Deok Juk. “There was a moment when I almost cried,” Lee revealed. “The filming was long, and he is much older than I, yet the moment the camera rolled, he cooked wonderfully for 30 minutes without showing any signs of fatigue. I was awed.”
Finally, he praised the competition’s ultimate winner, Choi Kang Rok. “He seems to have a truly excellent natural culinary touch,” Lee said. “I believe that’s something you’re born with. I want to learn his braising techniques.”
>> Who Is the Final Winner of ‘Culinary Class Wars 2’? Result Announced
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