On Netflix Korea's YouTube channel, a video titled 'Black and White After Service: Why Dark Chef Iron Arm Chose Choi Kang-rok' was released.
In the video, Iron Arm, who left a lasting impression on Netflix's variety show 'Black and White Chef 2,' shares his culinary journey and behind-the-scenes stories. He expressed disbelief upon hearing the news of being selected for the 'Michelin Guide 2025,' initially thinking it was a scam. He also expressed gratitude to his mentor, Jang Ho-jun, who taught him for seven years, for his heartfelt congratulations.
Meeting with Kim Poong, Iron Arm revealed the touching background that led him to start cooking buckwheat dishes. He shared memories of his mother selling buckwheat jelly and pancakes at the market, raising her children alone, and how eating the leftover food inspired his culinary journey.
Iron Arm, who suffers from a rare incurable disease causing muscle loss in his right hand, shared how his passion for cooking led him to develop a unique method of cooking using shoulder movements, evoking deep emotions.
He candidly spoke about his memory of being eliminated in a one-on-one match against Choi Kang-rok in the second round. Iron Arm explained that he had no ulterior motives when choosing his opponent; he simply wanted to compete directly with a chef he admired as a fan. Despite losing the competition, he sincerely congratulated Choi Kang-rok on his intricate and dazzling dishes, adding a heartwarming anecdote.
Iron Arm also expressed regret over his green onion dish used in the competition. In conversation with Kim Poong, he showcased the green onion rice pot dish he conceptualized after his elimination, jokingly saying, 'I really should have done this.' Having been deeply immersed in the competition, as evidenced by the belated realization of judge An Sung-jae's high praise, Iron Arm's transformation into a Michelin-starred chef after overcoming a painful past leaves much to anticipate for his future endeavors.
Reporter: Im Chae-ryeong, Ten Asia syjj426@tenasia.co.kr