Chef Choi Kang-rok Triumphs in 'Black and White Chef 2' and Embraces New Opportunities

Chef Choi Kang-rok has emerged as the winner of Netflix's culinary survival show 'Black and White Chef 2'. While he garnered significant viewer support during Season 1 with his unique charm, his public activities were minimal. This time, however, things are different. From TV appearances to launching collaboration products, Choi is already heating up with a variety of activities.

The finale of 'Black and White Chef 2' aired on the 14th, revealing Choi Kang-rok as the champion. After being eliminated in Season 1, he returned with renewed determination for Season 2, ultimately claiming the victory. Upon winning, Choi expressed, "I'm not someone who makes extraordinary food. I'm just like the chefs working hard across the country, doing the same work as those who make food." He added, "I will cherish the words from the judges and the connections made here, and continue to think deeply about food."

Choi's appeal since Season 1 lay in his quirky demeanor and sharp culinary skills, which contrasted with his unassuming speech. His professional yet approachable nature was evident in his cooking.

Despite being a standout contestant, Choi's activities post-Season 1 were relatively quiet. While other chefs thrived, Choi made only a few appearances on JTBC's 'Please Take Care of My Refrigerator'. During his appearances, he even expressed discomfort with the spotlight, saying he didn't want to use benefits that focused attention on him. He also hosted Netflix's 'Subjective Restaurant', which ended quietly after about four months due to mixed reviews.

Additionally, Choi unexpectedly closed his restaurant after Season 1, citing a 'decision for new challenges'. This left fans disappointed as they had no place to taste his food.

Choi's return in Season 2 was thus more significant. His determination was evident, and he showed a more proactive approach throughout the competition. Unlike Season 1, he actively participated in team missions, offering advice and displaying a markedly different attitude.

Before Season 2 aired, Choi began increasing his public activities. He appeared on Moon Sang-hoon's YouTube channel 'Paddlers' alongside Kang Leo, a judge from 'MasterChef Korea 2', which Choi won. They discussed various topics centered around 'MasterChef Korea 2' and 'Black and White Chef'.

Choi also teamed up with PD Kim Tae-ho for a new variety show. 'Food Enthusiast', which premiered on the 12th, is a food exploration show available on the YouTube channel 'Teo'. The show, reminiscent of a vlog and a food documentary, has been praised for its alignment with Choi's unpretentious charm. The first episode garnered nearly 1.9 million views within three days of release.

A collaboration product with convenience store Seven Eleven has also gained attention. The premium distilled soju 'Neo25 White', made from domestic rice, recalls Choi's former restaurant 'Neo'. Released in limited quantities on the 8th, the initial batch of 10,000 units sold out in three days. Seven Eleven plans to increase the second batch from 10,000 to 15,000 units, available from the 23rd.

Once criticized for not seizing opportunities, Choi is now proactively embracing them. His genuine and unpretentious nature makes this change welcome. His sincerity was evident during the final mission, where he presented a broth dish with sesame tofu, despite being known for braised dishes. Choi candidly shared, "I've been called a 'braising maniac', pretending to be good at it despite my struggles. I've studied and worked hard, but lived a life of pretense. For a dish for myself, I didn't want to braise." His confession left a lasting impression.

Kim Ji-won, TenAsia Reporter bella@tenasia.co.kr