Jeon Hyun-moo and Hwang Jae-gyun Explore Culinary Delights in Mungyeong on 'Jeon Hyun-moo Plan 3'

Jeon Hyun-moo and Hwang Jae-gyun showcased their exceptional chemistry on the variety show 'Jeon Hyun-moo Plan 3' as they explored the authentic culinary scene in Mungyeong, Gyeongsangbuk-do. Hwang Jae-gyun, who married T-ara's Jiyeon in 2022, recently announced their mutual agreement to part ways in 2024.

The May 1st episode of the reality food documentary 'Jeon Hyun-moo Plan 3' (co-produced by MBN, Channel S, and SK Broadband) featured Jeon Hyun-moo and Kwak Tube (Kwak Jun-bin) as they embarked on a gastronomic journey with former baseball player and broadcaster Hwang Jae-gyun. The trio indulged in local delicacies, starting with 'Jok Saljji-gae,' a stew made from pork trotters fed with 'Yakdol' feed, followed by the highly sought-after glutinous rice cakes, premium Korean beef, and Yakdol pork barbecue, creating a comprehensive 'Mungyeong Food Map' that thrilled viewers.

Upon arriving in Mungyeong, Jeon Hyun-moo and Kwak Tube headed to a 'Jok Saljji-gae' restaurant, confirmed as a 'Mungyeong Soul Food' spot through citizen interviews. Kwak Tube, tasting the stew for the first time, remarked, "It's spicy and rich in meat flavor," while Jeon Hyun-moo expressed his admiration, saying, "If I lived here, I'd come three times a week." As they enjoyed their first meal in Mungyeong, Jeon Hyun-moo hinted at their dining companion, describing him as "a king and someone who is currently very dedicated to broadcasting," leading Kwak Tube to immediately guess, "Hwang Jae-gyun!"

Hwang Jae-gyun, who soon joined them, expressed his excitement for the Mungyeong culinary experience. However, the trio faced unexpected challenges as they repeatedly failed to secure a reservation at a Chinese restaurant run by a Chinese chef. They eventually switched to 'Plan C' and visited a renowned glutinous rice cake shop. Jeon Hyun-moo praised the rice cakes, comparing them to "a baby's bottom," while Hwang Jae-gyun, who had his first bite after a 20-hour 'forced fast,' commented, "I usually don't like overly sweet rice cakes, but this one isn't too sweet. It's really delicious," and even coined the nickname 'Chopjjonku' for it.

After satisfying their taste buds, the group moved on to enjoy Korean beef and Yakdol pork. They purchased a generous amount of meat from a butcher shop near the Mungyeong bus terminal and headed to a nearby 'table setting restaurant.' During the 'meat party,' they praised the quality of the meat, saying, "The meat quality is excellent," and "It's truly delicious." Amidst the feast, Kwak Tube asked Hwang Jae-gyun, "Why did you retire when you weren't in a condition to do so?" Hwang Jae-gyun candidly replied, "I felt that if I continued for another 1-2 years, my form would decline, and I'd be forced to retire. Although I could have earned more if I stayed, honor was more important to me."

As the conversation turned to baseball, the trio tested their grip strength, even attempting to split apples. Kwak Tube, now a father, succeeded with his newfound strength, and Hwang Jae-gyun also succeeded effortlessly. In contrast, Jeon Hyun-moo only managed to scratch the surface, providing a moment of comic relief. After the laughter subsided, Jeon Hyun-moo subtly broached the topic of remarriage, saying, "Talk about it on our show."

Hwang Jae-gyun revealed, "I'm open to remarriage," and expressed his desire to have a child, stating, "I definitely want my child to play baseball. I can teach and support them well." He humorously added, "I think I'll get married before you, Hyun-moo," to which Jeon Hyun-moo jokingly responded, "You're so greedy. You're planning to do something I've never done, twice in a row?" leaving Hwang Jae-gyun in stitches.

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