'Culinary Class Wars 2' Chef Cheon Sanghyun reveals battle with cancer: "I've had two surgeries so far, currently on drugs"

SOURCE: '흑백2' 천상현 셰프, 암 투병 고백…"수술만 두 번, 항암제 먹는다"

Chef Cheon Sanghyun, who appeared on Netflix's 'Culinary Class Wars 2,' has opened up about his battle with cancer.

On the 21st, a video was released on the Youtube channel 'One Mic.' In the video, Chef Cheon said, "I was invited to join Season 1 and actually planned to participate, but I was sick." He added, "It was cancer. It had recurred. I was in a situation where I had to undergo a surgery again, which is why I couldn't join Season 1."

He confessed, "I've had 2 surgeries to remove parts of my lungs. Now I have to take one pill of drug a day," and added, "There's also a tumor in my head. They suspect it's a meningioma. I have received radiotherapy and undergone a surgery. I also have a difficulty hearing due to noise-induced hearing loss."

Regarding on how he came to work as a chef in the Blue House for 20 years, he said, "The person who recommended me to be the chef for the President was Master Hu Deok Juk."

He explained, "I heard that Master Hu Deok Juk was asked to recommend someone for the chef position in the Blue House. Two people were recommended. After submitting my resume, they reviewed it and forwarded it to President Kim Daejung's staff. I was finally selected after 2 months of background checks."

Chef Cheon recently drew attention by facing off against his own mentor, Chef Hu Deok Juk, in 'Culinary Class Wars 2.'

Regarding the match, he said, "I find Master Hu Deok Juk very intimidating. It's not because he scolds me, but because he has a soft charisma that makes him difficult to approach."

He added, "It was also the first time I ever competed alongside my Master on 'Culinary Class Wars 2.' Even though I'm known as the chef for President, the match was very difficult. I never imagined we would be competitors, so I felt overwhelmed at the time. I was worried about his health because he mentioned several times that it was physically demanding. Since I lost to him, I felt somewhat relieved."

Continue reading 'Culinary Class Wars 2' Chef Cheon Sanghyun reveals battle with cancer: "I've had two surgeries so far, currently on drugs"

Im Sung-geun: Not just 3 DUI offenses but '5 prior convictions?' Fans are shocked

SOURCE: 임성근, 음주운전 3번 아닌 '전과 5범'이라고? 팬들 '충격

It has been confirmed that chef Im Sung-geun, who gained attention through Netflix's 'Culinary Class Wars 2,' has a more extensive history of drunk driving than previously known. Unlike his own confession, reports show that he was caught for drunk driving 4 times and has a total of 5 prior convictions according to court rulings.

On the 20th, Dong-A Ilbo reported that after reviewing court records, Im Sung-geun was sentenced to a fine of 5 million KRW for drunk driving on September 21, 1999. According to the report, he was caught driving about 3 km in Incheon at around 8.25 PM (KST) on August 15 that year with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.153%. This number far exceeded the limit for license revocation standard at the time (0.1%)

Notably, it was revealed that Im Sung-geun was driving without license at the time and was driving a motorcycle owned by his wife. As the result, he was detained for 37 days. Furthermore, the ruling states that this occurred while he was already serving a probation. Im Sung-geun had previously been sentenced to 8 months in prison, suspended for 2 years, and a fine of 300,000 KRW for violating the Road Traffic Act on March 25,1998.

Previouly, on the 18th, Im Sung-geun posted an apology on his Youtube channel, confessing, "I committed drunk driving about 3 times in the past 10 years." However, reports confirmed that he was actually caught for drunk driving 4 times. Combined with additional Road Traffic Act Violations, he has 5 prior convictions in total. Controversy is growing over the accuracy of his confession.

At the time of his confession, Im Sung-geun explained that he was apologizing preemptively, saying, "A wrong is a wrong." However, as difference between his statement and court records came to light, public sentiment has grown even colder. Some critics pointed out, "Was he downplaying it?" and "Trust is key, but the facts don't match."

The aftermath continues to escalate as his appearances on various variety shows and other broadcast activities are being canceled one after another. 

Continue reading Im Sung-geun: Not just 3 DUI offenses but '5 prior convictions?' Fans are shocked

Netflix: “Over 17,000 applicants for 'Better Late Than Single,' set to premiere in Q2 ... 'Culinary Class Wars 3' returns in Q4"

SOURCE: 넷플릭스 "2분기 공개 '모태솔로' 지원자만 1만7000명 넘어…→'흑백요리사3', 4분기에 돌아온다"

At the Next on Netflix 2026 Korea event held on the morning of January 21st at the Grand Ballroom of Conrad Seoul Hotel, Director of Variety Content, Yoo Gihwan, said, "Over 17,000 people applied when recruitment opened for Season 2 of 'Better Late Than Single.' The program is scheduled for release in the 2nd quarter of the year and will deliver warmth through the process of participants finding the first love of their lives."

'Better Late Than Single' is a makeover dating show that helps Motae Solos (NB: Those who have been single since birth) experience their very first romantic relationships. By sincerely portraying the clumsy yet honest and unpredictable first attempts at love, the show is expected to shift the genre of dating shows, raising anticipation for the new season. Previously, the show previously dominated global headlines and even ranked in the Netflix Global TOP 10 Non-English TV Shows immediately after its release.

The event also revealed the release timing for the next season of 'Culinary Class Wars,' which has recently become a phenomenon following the announcement of its winner. Director Yoo shared, "'Culinary Class Wars 3' will air in the 4th quarter of the year."

Following the success of Season 1 and 2, as both seasons ranked No. 1 in Netflix Global TOP 10 Non-English TV Shows, 'Culinary Class Wars' returns with season 3 with an evolved format, centered on restaurant vs restaurant battles, promising even more intense competition and thrilling entertainment.

Continue reading Netflix: “Over 17,000 applicants for 'Better Late Than Single,' set to premiere in Q2 ... 'Culinary Class Wars 3' returns in Q4"

0 guests from the bride's side ... 'Class Culinary Wars 2' Chef Hu Deok Juk reveals shocking wedding photos: "The marriage was opposed because I was a 'chef'"

SOURCE: 신부측 하객 0명…'흑백2' 후덕죽 셰프, 충격적 결혼식 사진 "'요리사'라고 반대 당해"

On the 19th, tvN' 'You Quiz on the Block' posted a preview of its upcoming episode featuring Chef Hu Deok Juk.

On the show, Yoo Jaesuk introduced Chef Hu Deok Juk, saying, "He is a living history and a legend of Chinese cuisine with 57 years of experience," before warmly greeting him. He shared, "I once ate Buddha Jumps Over the Wall at X," to which Chef Hu Deok Juk responded with a gentle smile, "You remember."

Chef Hu Deok Juk also shared his thoughts on filming the Netflix variety show. Regarding his elimination after reaching the TOP 3, he said, "Honestly, it was tough. I actually thought it might be better to be eliminated," drawing laughter. He added, "At first, I wanted to go all the way to the finals, so I did feel a bit disappointed when I was eliminated."

He also revealed his special connection with the late Chairman Lee Byungchul. When Yoo Jaesuk asked, "Did the Chairman look for specific foods because of his poor health?" Chef Hu Deok Juk replied, "At the time, there was a medicinal cuisine. I went as a customer, tasted it, and took photos to figure out the recipe, but the restaurant told me, 'We won't sell to you, leave now.'" He continued, "I waited outside until 10 PM. I told the head chef, 'I came because I love your food.' Eventually, he personally made it for me and even taught me the recipe."

He also credited his wife as the driving force that allowed him to continue cooking for 57 years. He recalled, "When we first met, there was a strong opposition," then revealed photos from their wedding. The photos shocked viewers as it showed the bride's side of the guest seats was completely empty while the groom entering. He said, "We just decided to get married on our own. Back then, if you said you were a chef, people wouldn't even look at you."

The episode of 'You Quiz on the Block' starring Chef Hu Deok Juk will air on the 21st at 8.45 PM (KST).

1. [+230][-2] That's just how it was back then... Imagine how the parents must've felt. These two are truly amazing.

2. [+210][-2] I think it wasn't so much about him being a chef, but because he was Hwagyo (Ethnic Chinese). Discrimination was severe in the past. I was deeply moved by the depth and character that come from his years of experience.

3. [+175][-2] I rooted for Chef Hu Deok Juk until the very end. His unwavering dedication to Chinese cuisine from start to finish is amazing. To be doing that at his age is truly admirable.

Continue reading 0 guests from the bride's side ... 'Class Culinary Wars 2' Chef Hu Deok Juk reveals shocking wedding photos: "The marriage was opposed because I was a 'chef'"

Strong candidates for the Daesang at the Baeksang Awards

 

Culinary Class Wars

When Life Gives You Tangerines

I wonder which one will win.

theqoo

-I haven't watched either, but it seems like 'Culinary Class Wars' had more viewers.

-I thought 'When Life Gives You Tangerines' would obviously win this one.

-Baeksang doesn't usually give the Daesang to variety shows...ㅋㅋㅋ

-It should be 'Culinary Class Wars.' That show basically revived the whole food industry.

-I haven't watched either, but I personally think 'Culinary Class Wars' seemed to have more buzz.

-I've watched both. I actually liked 'When Life Gives You Tangerines' more.

-They should give this one to 'Culinary Class Wars'ㅋㅋ The impact they had was on another level.

-'Culinary Class Wars' was on another level. People were totally obsessed with itㅋㅋ

-Considering it's the Baeksang Awards, I think they'll give it to 'When Life Gives You Tangerines.'

-If you compare the shows alone, it's obviously 'Culinary Class Wars.' But since it's the Baeksang Awards, they probably won't give it to a variety showㅋㅋㅋㅋ

-Considering that Baek Jongwon had an issue recently, I think 'When Life Gives You Tangerines' will win this one.

-From someone who hasn't watched either, I think 'Culinary Class Wars' had way bigger buzz than 'When Life Gives You Tangerines.'

-The Baeksang Awards doesn’t usually hand out the Daesang based on buzz alone...

Continue reading Strong candidates for the Daesang at the Baeksang Awards

Chef Ahn Sungjae joins ‘GD and Friends’… First variety show appearance after 'Culinary Class Wars'

 

https://m.entertain.naver.com/article/241/0003401840

Chef Ahn Sungjae is set to join the new variety show 'GD and Friends.'

According to industry insiders on the 16th, Chef Ahn Sungjae will appear in Kim Taeho PD’s latest project, 'GD and Friends.'

GD and Friends is a new variety show created by producer Kim Taeho and singer G-Dragon. The show has been generating buzz not only for G-Dragon’s return to the entertainment scene after a seven-year hiatus but also for reuniting Kim Taeho PD with MBC following their success with 'Infinite Challenge.'

The show revolves around G-Dragon and features an exciting lineup, including Kim Soohyun, Hwang Jungmin, Jung Haein, Im Siwan, entertainers Jung Hyungdon and Jo Seho, as well as groups Aespa and DAY6. With Chef Ahn Sungjae, who rose to stardom this year through Netflix’s 'Culinary Class Wars,' now joining the cast, anticipation for the program has increased. 

theqoo

-Looks like Kim Taeho isn't confident and is using guests to gain attention from the public.

-I’m honestly starting to get really curious, what kind of show is this?ㅋㅋ

-The show name is strange.

-What kind of show is this?

-GD will probably say a few words? Looking at the guests, this show might run for a year.

-The first episode will probably create a lot of buzz.

-At this point, I might end up starring in the show too.

-Is this like Family Outing?

-It looks like they’ll have a different guest each episode, so I’m curious what they’re planningㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ

-I heard they're coming up with a new format. Besides, the lineup is very great. So I'm really looking forward to this.

-What is this show? It doesn’t seem like a talk show, so what is it?

-I didn’t watch 'Culinary Class Wars,' so I don’t know much about Chef Ahn Sungjae, but I’m still excited for this show.

-Kim Taeho said he was trying something new. I’m really curious what it will be.

-How many people are going to be on this show?

-It looks like guests will appear briefly one by one.

Continue reading Chef Ahn Sungjae joins ‘GD and Friends’… First variety show appearance after 'Culinary Class Wars'

[Culinary Class Wars] The intense kitchen survival battle (Spoilers)

 

There's something more important than the chef in the kitchen, and that's the ingredients.

Continue reading [Culinary Class Wars] The intense kitchen survival battle (Spoilers)