Popularity of ′Culinary Class Wars′ driven by 100 chefs, boosts dining industry: Chef Ahn Sung-jae

Popularity of 'Culinary Class Wars' driven by 100 chefs, boosts dining industry: Chef Ahn Sung-jae: K-DRAMA&FILM / 연합뉴스 / 2026-01-21 15:09:11

▲ Chef Ahn Sung-jae, a judge on Netflix’s variety series “Culinary Class Wars,” shows in this photo provided by the OTT giant. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

SEOUL, Jan. 21 (Yonhap) -- “I’m deeply grateful as someone in the dining industry that many people have taken interest in this wonderful profession and are visiting restaurants to enjoy diverse experiences through ‘Culinary Class Wars.’”

Chef Ahn Sung-jae, a judge on Netflix’s variety series “Culinary Class Wars,” said the show’s popularity has had a positive impact on the dining industry.

Speaking at the “Next on Netflix 2026 Korea” panel talk held Wednesday at a hotel in Yeongdeungpo, Seoul, Ahn said the series helped viewers discover chefs they hadn’t known before and experience new cuisines.

“Culinary Class Wars” became a hit with its concept of pitting well-known “white-spoon” star chefs recognized by the Michelin Guide against lesser-known but highly skilled “black-spoon” chefs.

Season 1, released in 2024, topped Netflix’s global non-English TV rankings for three consecutive weeks — a first for a Korean variety show. Season 2, released late last year, continued the success by ranking No. 1 for two straight weeks.

Ahn credited the show’s success to its contestants, saying the 100 chefs who appeared in season 2 were exceptionally talented and compelling.

As Netflix announced that a third season will be released in the fourth quarter of this year, Ahn expressed high expectations. Unlike the previous individual-based seasons, season 3 will feature teams of four chefs who have worked together at the same restaurant.

“The casting notice for season 3 is out, and I hear many chefs have applied,” Ahn said. “I’m the most excited of all, and I hope viewers will show great interest.”