This is how chef Yeo Kyung-rae (64) remembers his elimination moment in “Culinary Class Wars.” While everyone was too tense to laugh, he laughed alone, lightening the mood of everyone around him in what could have been an uncomfortable situation. It was a moment when the “dignity of a master” could be felt.
Chef Yeo Kyung-rae, who began his culinary career at the age of 14, has been using the wok for 50 years. He was president of the Korean Chinese Cuisine Association for 10 years and is a master of Chinese cuisine. He has also been a judge of numerous prestigious cooking competitions. When he announced his participation as a contestant on Netflix’s “Culinary Class Wars,” many were surprised, thinking, “He has nothing to gain if he doesn’t win.” However, while others were concerned, Chef Yeo saw it as a learning opportunity. In an interview with Munhwa Ilbo on October 3, he downplayed any pressure, saying: “I didn’t feel burdened; I just thought it would be fun. Since there were many talented chefs participating, I thought I could learn something from this.“
Chef Yeo was eliminated in a 1:1 match against “Self-Made” with a score of 0:2. Judge Baek Jong-won, who had blindly judged the dishes, was so shocked by the result that he was left speechless. Yeo, however, humbly accepted the result with a smile, saying: “Younger chefs should take over.” Self-Made, overcome with emotion, bowed low before him. Yeo said: “Since I began my career as a self made man, I have chosen to compete against him. That young man must have felt an incredible joy, which made me even more proud. When I saw Baek Jong-won jump out of his seat, I knew “he’s really surprised” and found it quite funny.“
Chef Yeo, who says he has no regrets about appearing on “Culinary Class Wars”, expressed his satisfaction that the show has reignited interest in cooking and chefs and improved public perception. Relentlessly, he is now a judge on the SBS variety show “Decision to Pass It On,” helping to find the next generation of culinary talent. His focus on supporting his disciple Park Eun-young (goddess of Chinese cuisine) during the “Culinary Class Wars” was particularly impressive.
“I heard that the restaurants of the 100 chefs featured in “Culinary Class Wars” are now fully booked. People also want to try my restaurant, but reservations are hard to find. Usually, this type of fame lasts about three months. The restaurant industry is going through a lot right now, so I hope this popularity doesn’t come and go quickly, but lasts a long time and steadily. I am proud to see all the chefs working together to make the most of this golden opportunity.”
Source: Daum
