Q&A with Kim Dong-jun
Q1. How do you feel about the successful conclusion of the mysterious pop-up hotel 'Hotel Goblin'?
“First, I want to thank the Goblinz members and staff who worked hard. Without them, 'Hotel Goblin' wouldn't have existed. I'm just grateful and relieved that we could finish the show safely. The warm feelings from our guests still linger deeply in my heart.”
Q2. You took on the significant role of 'main chef' in this program. What was your main focus when serving Korean food to foreign guests?
“Honestly, I haven't formally studied cooking, nor am I particularly skilled, so I remember being quite worried and nervous at first. However, I constantly thought about what dishes would make our guests happiest.”
Q3. Your thoughtful care for guests shone through despite the demanding kitchen work. Is there a guest or moment that stands out to you?
“I wanted to leave a good impression of 'Hotel Goblin' on our guests. I wanted to share and empathize with the memories they made here. I believe that's the essence of Korea's unique 'Jeong'. The family guests who had a traditional wedding ceremony are most memorable. They sincerely thanked us, but it was us who were more grateful and touched.”
Q4. You had great chemistry with Goblinz members, including Go Doo-shim. What does 'Goblinz' mean to you?
“Go Doo-shim is 'love' itself. She continues to share endless love with us Goblinz. Our Goblinz members are 'friendship' to me. We shared everything from dawn till late night, and now we've developed a strong 'camaraderie'. (Laughs) The part-time workers were also amazing. Especially actor Lee Joo-young (34), whom I met for the first time, was incredibly charming and talented.”
Q5. Your diligent image as 'human Kim Dong-jun' sweating in the kitchen was refreshing. What does 'Hotel Goblin' mean to you?
“'Hotel Goblin' was a big 'challenge' for me. Cooking and serving, and letting foreigners experience our culture was a huge challenge. Sometimes I wanted to disappear like a goblin, but other times I wanted to appear and show more. I learned a lot and realized that even without a common language or culture, we can share our hearts.”
Q6. There's a strong call from viewers for a second season. If you join season 2, is there a new menu you'd like to try? Any final words for the viewers?
“I'm ready to appear anywhere, anytime, like a goblin. If called, I'll be there! If I cook again, I'd like to serve soul food like stir-fried pork or soup, and braised short ribs.
Lastly, I want to deeply thank the viewers who loved 'Hotel Goblin'. I think we conveyed the 'Jeong' you always send us to our guests. Please continue to share your warmth and love, and look forward to when and where 'Hotel Goblin' might appear again!”
Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr