Paik Jong Won, the renowned CEO of The Born Korea, is set to return for Season 2 of Netflix’s hit series Culinary Class Wars. In a recent interview with Yonhap News, Paik confirmed his participation in the upcoming season and expressed his surprise at the show’s success.
“I didn’t expect it,” Paik said candidly. “Sometimes, even when you feel like you’ve filmed well, it doesn’t always translate on screen. But this time, it exceeded expectations.” He also mentioned that discussions about his involvement in Season 2 began naturally after the first season’s airing, though he hasn’t yet signed an official contract.
Paik pointed to his appearance on Culinary Class Wars as a key factor in The Born Korea’s growing visibility, particularly as the company prepares for its initial public offering (IPO). The show’s global popularity helped him gain international recognition as a judge alongside Chef Anh Sung Jae.
“The show’s success made a huge difference during our investor relations activities in Hong Kong,” Paik shared. “Typically, investors are reluctant even to schedule meetings, but this time, I was able to meet with groups of ten at once—almost like a fan meet-and-greet.”
Reflecting on why he joined the show in the first place, Paik recalled being drawn to the production company’s vision of promoting Korea’s cultural exports. “They said we can make Korea as renowned as Singapore,” Paik explained. “Right now, many tourists come to Korea for K-content and discover K-food as a bonus. But imagine if people started coming specifically for K-food and then explored K-content – that would be groundbreaking.”
Paik believes this shift is already beginning, citing an increasing global interest in Korean food. “Foreigners are now actively seeking out restaurants featured on Culinary Class Wars,” he said, emphasizing the impact the show has had in driving international attention to Korean cuisine.
In addition to his success on Culinary Class Wars, Paik is set to star in a new variety show on ENA, Chef Paik & Les Misérables, which will premiere on November 30. In this unique program, Paik will lead a team of accomplished chefs—including Kim Min Sung, David Lee, Lim Tae Hoon, and Yun Nam No—who will mentor 20 aspiring entrepreneurs. The contestants will face challenges in overcoming adversity and hardships as they work to establish successful businesses, with the chefs offering guidance and support.
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