Choi Kang-rok Triumphs in ‘Culinary Class Wars’ Season 2 Finale
The second season of Netflix’s ‘Culinary Class Wars’ has concluded, with Choi Kang-rok emerging as the champion. The finale aired on January 13, 2026, highlighting intense cooking challenges and blind taste tests. Choi, a White Spoon chef, and the only returning contestant from the previous season, took home the title alongside a cash prize of 300 million won, equivalent to approximately $203,000.
Choi Kang-rok’s Journey to Victory
During the finale, Choi presented a dish that showcased his culinary skills. The theme for the final round was “Just One Dish For Myself.” Facing off against Lee Ha-sung, known as the “Culinary Monster,” both chefs encountered difficulties; they were accustomed to cooking for others rather than themselves.
- Choi’s winning dish featured soup with sesame tofu and a bottle of soju.
- Lee made a sundaeguk, or blood sausage soup, recalling childhood memories of visiting a bathhouse with his father.
Judge Ahn Sung-jae praised Choi’s creation as “a really honest dish,” which helped secure his unanimous win with Judge Paik Jong-won.
A Unique Culinary Background
Choi Kang-rok’s entry into the culinary world was unconventional. Initially aspiring to be a drummer, he took part-time kitchen jobs only to fund his music career. His perspective changed after reading ‘Mr. Sushi King,’ inspiring him to pursue a culinary path.
- Age: 47
- First culinary education: Tsuji Culinary Institute in Japan.
- Gained fame after winning MasterChef Korea in 2013.
Before his television success, he worked as a tuna trader and accumulated debts from failed restaurant ventures. His decision to apply for MasterChef came after seeing a commercial during a night out.
Television Career and Future Projects
Choi’s television presence extends beyond ‘Culinary Class Wars.’ He has appeared in multiple shows, including ‘What Shall We Eat Today – Delivery’ and ‘Please Take Care of My Refrigerator.’ Recently, he hosted ‘The Blank Menu For You,’ a Netflix show featuring celebrity guests.
As an author, Choi has published two books, including a recipe collection and an essay compilation, where he shares his experiences as a working chef.
Return to Culinary Class Wars
In ‘Culinary Class Wars’ season 2, Choi was characterized as a “Hidden White Spoon” contestant. After being eliminated in season 1, he returned for a second chance. He secured a spot in the competition by impressing judges with his braised eel and vegetables.
Looking Ahead
After closing his Japanese restaurant Neo in Seoul’s Songpa district in early 2025, Choi is now focused on various projects. He is starring in a new YouTube series titled ‘Food Otaku,’ where he searches for the best ingredients across Japan.
Choi Kang-rok envisions a future that aligns his culinary practice with his personal evolution. He dreams of creating a library and kitchen space, merging cooking with a love for culinary literature.
As he approaches his 50s, Choi is ready to adapt his cooking to the changes in his life. His resilience and passion continue to inspire aspiring chefs everywhere.
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