Lee Jang-woo Expands Culinary Ventures Amidst Shifting Entertainment Career

Lee Jang-woo, soon to marry actress Jo Hye-won, is diving headfirst into the culinary business. Known as the 'Son of MBC' for his variety show appearances, his fading identity as an actor is a point of concern.

On the 16th, Lee Jang-woo will open a curry restaurant, further expanding his culinary ventures. After opening a noodle shop in Seoul's Songpa District in January, he has since launched a 24-hour soup restaurant and a curry house, with plans to operate a porridge shop in Aewol, Jeju Island.

His foray into the food industry was significantly influenced by his appearance on 'I Live Alone.' Dubbed the 'Powder Prince,' he gained attention and showcased his genuine love for food and his boisterous personality as the youngest member of the 'Palm Oil Family.'

Lee's presence in variety shows has been notable. He solidified his position in the entertainment industry with appearances on MBC's 'The Captain's Side Dish' and 'Lee Jang-woo's Rural Village.' 'The Captain's Side Dish,' a spin-off of 'I Live Alone,' featured him alongside announcer Kim Dae-ho, introducing simple yet creative side dish recipes. His unique attempts, like 'tangerine side dishes,' piqued viewers' curiosity and provided healing moments with his delightful chemistry with guests.

In 'Lee Jang-woo's Rural Village,' he achieved record ratings through his genuine interactions with residents and food adventures. Despite the pressure of having a show named after him, he proved why he was the right fit with passion and sincerity.

However, his acting career leaves something to be desired. Once recognized for his flower boy image, Lee Jang-woo debuted in the 2006 MBC drama '90 Days, Time to Love' and gained recognition for his villain role in the 2010 KBS1 drama 'Smile Again.' He also gained popularity appearing as a couple with Ham Eun-jung on MBC's 'We Got Married' in 2011.

Known for his sharp and handsome looks, Lee gained weight for his role in 'My Only One.' Many expected him to lose weight after the show ended, but he maintained his weight instead. Although he occasionally showed signs of slimming down, he never returned to his prime visual.

His weight change affected his image, leading him away from the flower boy actor persona and enhancing his presence as a variety show personality. In February, he appeared on YouTube, lamenting, "The drama industry is in chaos. It's tough. Camera directors are out of work. Where did all the capital from our golden age go? Even weekend dramas aren't getting ratings."

Some critics argue that rather than blaming the industry's downturn, Lee should focus on self-management as an actor. They point out that actors who maintain strict self-discipline continue to be cast in leading roles despite the industry's challenges.

Given Lee's direct comments on the difficulties in the drama industry, it's interpreted that he isn't fully transitioning from acting to variety shows. However, it's undeniable that his image as an actor is gradually fading.

This year, Lee Jang-woo's filmography is empty. His last drama appearance was in tvN's 'Holy Idol' last year, and his only film work was dubbing for 'Garfield the Movie.'

While establishing a foothold in variety shows is commendable, if he still harbors dreams as an actor, he must focus on image improvement and self-management. Whether he can reclaim his image as an actor depends on his efforts.

Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr