Hwang Ji-oh, the first-ever winner of MBN's 'Chunha Baking', the nation's first 'baking survival' show, shared his heartfelt reflections and emotional victory speech after the show concluded on the 5th.
In a '9 Questions, 9 Answers' interview, Hwang Ji-oh, the inaugural winner of 'Chunha Baking', revealed the intense efforts he put in and his future aspirations.
Q1. How do you feel about winning 'Chunha Baking'?
Having been in the baking industry for 10 years, every moment was about proving myself both internally and externally. There were countless worries and moments of doubt, but 'Chunha Baking' gave me the confidence that I made the right career choice. I'm especially happy to have become a source of inspiration for my juniors who have been with me for a long time. I can finally give myself some credit.
Q2. Did you come up with the nickname 'Crazy Patissier'? What does it mean?
I often hear that I'm crazy at work. The term 'crazy' is used to express deep love for something, and that's how much I love this job. Chef Choi Hyun-seok, whom I consider my mentor, once said, “To move others, you must be crazy,” and I've learned a lot from that attitude. I can proudly say I'm crazy about this work, hence the nickname 'Crazy Patissier'.
Q3. What was the most challenging mission?
The '1-on-1 Death Match' in round 3 was the toughest. The shrimp theme was challenging, and initially, I planned to make a simple 'Shrimp Mayo Cream Bread'. But I realized it wouldn't truly represent me. Making a cake with shrimp was risky, but I decided it was better to showcase my true self, even if I lost. It was tough and nerve-wracking, but I have no regrets.
Q4. From round 3 to the end, you were in competition with 'Jeju Blue Ribbon Rich' Kim Si-yeop. What's your real relationship with him?
We had no interaction before round 3's '1-on-1 Death Match', but we became friends after that. Although it wasn't shown on TV, during the 'Revival Round', Kim Si-yeop and Chef Kwak Dong-wook cheered loudly for me, which was very encouraging. Most of the contestants, including Kim Si-yeop, are senior to me in the industry, so I learned a lot from them. We still keep in touch and check in on each other. After losing to Kim Si-yeop, I decided to give my all to win. I believe my demeanor became more serious from round 4 onwards.
Q5. How did you prevent spoilers about your win, and what was the reaction after it was revealed?
To avoid spoilers and to keep my family from worrying, I told them I was busy with work until the 'Revival Round'. I only revealed I was filming by round 4. I even took precautions like dining in private rooms with my family. I tried to forget about the competition and my win. Chef Choi Hyun-seok, who rarely shows emotion, told me he was proud when I informed him of my win, which was touching. Recently, a foreigner recognized me from Netflix and wanted to greet me, which was surprising and gratifying.
Q6. Your victory speech about Chef Kim Na-rae was touching. Did she give you any advice after your win?
Chef Kim Na-rae hugged me and said I worked hard, which was a true fan moment for me. I later thanked her on social media, and she told me to reach out if I ever needed help, which was incredibly moving and something I'll cherish forever.
Q7. Your creative ideas stood out in every round. Where do you get your inspiration, and what was the most challenging project to realize?
I usually get ideas from exhibitions or travel, but during the competition, I focused on intuitive concepts. Like with the shrimp in round 3, I personified ingredients and imagined them. I have a habit of thinking about picky eaters around me and trying to satisfy them. For the 'Final Round 1', I wanted to sculpt a chicken shape myself, so I rushed to make a mold, completing it just a day before the competition, which was nerve-wracking.
Q8. You received $1 million and a luxury electric SUV as your prize. How do you plan to use them?
I received the car early but kept it covered to avoid spoilers. I haven't received the prize money yet, but once I do, I plan to treat Chef Choi Hyun-seok and others who supported me to meals or gifts. Personally, since my parents moved and I need to live independently, I'll use the money for a deposit or to set up a workspace.
Q9. As the first winner of 'Chunha Baking', what are your future plans and aspirations?
My imagination for desserts continues to grow, and I hope to have opportunities to create what I envision. I'm studying hard for that. I also hope to continue creating fun projects with Chef Choi Hyun-seok and to inspire juniors in the industry, helping them stay on their path without giving up. I aim to become a chef with a strong presence. Thank you.
Meanwhile, MBN's 'Chunha Baking' concluded its broadcast on the 5th.
Ryu Ye-ji, TenAsia Reporter ryuperstar@tenasia.co.kr