The recent Netflix series 'Black and White Chefs' has captured the attention of audiences both domestically and internationally, highlighting the contrasting journeys of its participating chefs.
Some chefs enjoy immense success, leveraging the show for restaurant promotion and skyrocketing reservations, while others face the fallout of past controversies. Since its premiere in September, the show has created significant buzz, featuring underground culinary masters challenging top chefs in an intense cooking competition. The winning team, Napoli Mafia, has seen a notable increase in their restaurant's bookings, with a staggering 100,000 users attempting to reserve through their app, causing server issues.
Additionally, former underground chefs who gained fame on the show have begun to participate in new projects, including a fresh cooking program titled 'Baek Jong-won's Les Misérables.' Chef Ahn Seong-jae has become a sought-after figure for various culinary events, while renowned chef Choi Hyun-seok’s restaurant was recognized in the prestigious French culinary guide, 'La Liste 2025.'
However, not all experiences have been positive; some chefs are now embroiled in scandals that have emerged post-show. Yeong-sook Lee, who gained recognition as a 'Korean cuisine master' after winning a competition, is facing allegations of failing to repay a loan post-2010, igniting public outrage over her financial history. Such revelations point to the complex narratives behind the glamorous facade of culinary stardom.
More troubling accusations have recently surfaced against chef Kang Seung-won, involving past relationships and serious claims of misconduct, which have shocked fans and the culinary community alike. Reports detail controversies surrounding his behavior, including inappropriate surveillance of female customers and demands made to former partners. These incidents reveal the darker side of fame and the scrutiny that comes with public success.