On the evening of January 2nd, 2026, the first episode of KBS 2TV's 'New Release, Pyeonstorang' aired.
The episode featured the versatile goddess Lee Jung-hyun and the pure-hearted chef Kim Kang-woo celebrating the New Year in a special way. Lee Jung-hyun prepared dishes filled with memories of her late mother, while Kim Kang-woo crafted meals that could be enjoyed without health concerns. It was a time that brought both joy and emotion to viewers.
Lee Jung-hyun, her husband, and the sisters Seo-ah and Seo-woo gathered to take Seo-woo's first birthday photos. The father's sacrifice was essential for capturing the perfect shots of his daughters. Despite this, Lee Jung-hyun's husband couldn't stop smiling, creating a sweet atmosphere by kissing his wife's hand during the photo session. The 'Pyeonstorang' family was touched by the fact that Seo-woo, who had been introduced to the world through the show with news of Lee Jung-hyun's pregnancy and birth, had already turned one.
As the family gathered to celebrate Seo-woo's first birthday, the highlight of the party, the doljabi, began. Everyone was curious to see what Seo-woo would pick from the stethoscope, microphone, judge's gavel, pencil, silk thread, and money. Lee Jung-hyun's husband commented, "Our first child picked the stethoscope, so it would be nice if the second one picks the microphone," and Lee Jung-hyun agreed, "I hope she picks the microphone." Seo-woo fulfilled her parents' wishes by choosing the microphone.
Later, a handwritten letter from Lee Jung-hyun's mother-in-law was revealed. The letter was filled with affection for her daughter-in-law, who tirelessly juggles work, childbirth, parenting, cooking, and studying. Lee Jung-hyun's mother-in-law also surprised everyone by gifting them money, suggesting, "I'll take care of Seo-ah and Seo-woo, so you two should go on a trip."
The day after Seo-woo's birthday party, Lee Jung-hyun was in the kitchen preparing holiday dishes. She made assorted pancakes, simple galbitang, and braised short ribs. During this process, Lee Jung-hyun's efforts to recreate her late mother's flavors, which she had been unable to replicate for five years, were revealed, evoking deep emotions. Lee Jung-hyun expressed, "My mom's meatballs were really delicious, but I regret not getting the recipe," adding, "I can finally look at my mom's photos now, but before, I missed her so much that I couldn't without crying."
Without an exact recipe, Lee Jung-hyun relied on her memories to recreate her mother's flavors, making meatballs that closely resembled her mother's. She used these meatballs to create visually appealing and delicious shiitake mushroom pancakes. While cooking, Lee Jung-hyun remarked, "This takes a lot of effort," and wondered, "How did my mom make so many of these?" Her efforts resonated with Kang Soo-jung, who was moved to tears.
Meanwhile, pure-hearted chef Kim Kang-woo shared his morning routine, which is the secret to his youthful appearance at 48. He also introduced a new '10-Year Eraser' recipe, 'Hairy Greek Yogurt,' surpassing the previously popular '10-Year Eraser Juice.' Additionally, he shared a cabbage pizza recipe for guilt-free enjoyment and a recipe for braised beef shank that requires no tearing or oil concerns, tantalizing viewers' appetites.
KBS 2TV's 'New Release, Pyeonstorang' kicked off 2026 with laughter, touching moments, and delicious recipes, airing every Friday at 8:30 PM.
Im Chae-ryeong, Ten Asia Reporter syjj426@tenasia.co.kr