tvN's 'Chagane' Heads to Japan to Uncover Wasabi Secrets Amidst Ratings Challenge

tvN's real gangster sitcom 'Chagane' is heading to Japan to uncover the secrets of top-grade wasabi. The show, which started with a 2% viewership rating, has seen a decline to the 1% range by its second episode and has maintained this rating for three consecutive weeks.

In the fifth episode, airing on the 5th at 8:40 PM, the Chagane crew embarks on a journey to Shizuoka, the holy land of wasabi, to expand their spicy business. Previously, the crew held a street tasting event in Bangkok, Thailand, focusing on spicy flavor research. Now, they are on a mission to uncover the secrets of the 'green spicy' wasabi.

The crew heads to a mountain in Shizuoka, where fresh wasabi is cultivated in optimal conditions. They gather confidential information about wasabi and even set up an outdoor lab for research. The team is also set to showcase unique dishes using top-grade wasabi.

Amidst this, DinDin, showing off his unique 'cooking pride,' takes on the role of the first chef, setting the stage for an unpredictable showdown. With the proven culinary skills of boss Cha Seung-won and second-in-command Choo Sung-hoon joining in, a fierce three-way battle unfolds. DinDin, feeling the pressure, admits, "If I fail, it could be the end," adding tension to the competition.

DinDin is the first to secure wasabi for his secret dish, followed by Cha Seung-won, who captivates with a spicy 'half pepper, half fish cake' soup. Choo Sung-hoon counters with dumplings and a hidden Japanese sauce, igniting a rivalry. Notably, the dumpling dish is significant as Cha Seung-won previously failed with it in Thailand, adding an invisible pride battle.

As the Chagane crew delves deeper into the secrets of wasabi's 'green spicy' flavor, they continue their journey to Tokyo in search of even spicier flavors. The camaraderie and spicy passion of the crew, including Cha Seung-won, Choo Sung-hoon, Tommy, DinDin, and Danny Koo, are key highlights. The five members also attempt Japan's famous sticker photos known for excessive face editing, adding humor. The anticipation builds for the crew's new journey in Tokyo and their surreal visuals.

Tae Yuna, TenAsia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr