Baek Jong-won, Im Soo-hyang, Suho, and Chae Jong-hyeop Become 'Honorary Antarctic Crew' After Grueling Initiation

Baek Jong-won, Im Soo-hyang, Suho, and Chae Jong-hyeop have officially been inducted as 'Honorary Antarctic Crew' at the King Sejong Station in Antarctica after undergoing a challenging initiation ceremony, as depicted in the 'Climate and Environment Project - Chef in Antarctica.'

The first episode of 'Chef in Antarctica,' which aired on the 17th, followed the four celebrities as they embarked on a journey to the Antarctic, the forefront of climate change research. They were the first to visit the continent with 'Honorary Crew' status, touring locations such as Penguin Village and the Sejong Station. Suho, a member of the group EXO, expressed his feelings about experiencing firsthand extreme weather changes, recognizing the impact of global warming. He conveyed a sense of responsibility and determination regarding their visit to Antarctica.

To survive in the harsh Antarctic environment, the four honorary crew members underwent rigorous survival training, including maritime safety, fire safety, and land safety drills. Chae Jong-hyeop remarked that the training made him realize the genuine dangers of Antarctica. After thorough preparation, they arrived in Punta Arenas, Chile, the gateway city to Antarctica, following a long flight. Punta Arenas is strategically located about a two-hour flight from King George Island in Antarctica, serving as a hub for researchers and explorers.

However, their journey to the Antarctic continent was fraught with challenges. On their second day in Punta Arenas, a blizzard struck, followed by icy conditions on the runway on the third day. Due to unfavorable runway conditions that persisted until the fourth day, their flight to Antarctica was canceled, dashing their hopes of entering the continent. The honorary crew members experienced significant frustration due to the repeated cancellations. Fortunately, on the fifth day, their flight was confirmed, bringing smiles of relief to the honorary crew.

After overcoming numerous obstacles, the four finally set foot on King George Island, Antarctica, marveling at the breathtaking scenery. Im Soo-hyang described the moment with awe, stating, 'I felt a sense of wonder.' Suho added, 'It was a moment that is hard to experience again in a lifetime,' reflecting on their arduous journey.

To travel to the Sejong Station, the honorary crew boarded a rubber boat. As they approached Marian Cove, where the Sejong Station is located, they spotted icebergs and smaller ice fragments broken off from glaciers. Kwon Oh-seok, a member of the maritime safety team, explained that the speed at which glacial walls collapse due to climate change has accelerated in Marian Cove. Compared to the past, the glacier wall has retreated by approximately 2 km, with bedrock exposed by 2025. The four witnessed firsthand the crisis in Antarctica, directly impacted by the changes brought about by global warming.

Upon arriving at the King Sejong Antarctic Station, located 17,240 km from South Korea, the four honorary crew members began their official duties by paying silent tribute at the statue of the late Commander Jeon Jae-gyu, who tragically died 21 years ago while rescuing a fellow crew member during a blizzard. Afterwards, they joined the overwintering crew for lunch at 'Sejong Restaurant,' the only dining facility in the remote area.

An Chi-yeong, the culinary specialist who prepared meals for the overwintering crew for a year, emphasized the significance of meals in Antarctica, saying, 'Eating three meals a day is the greatest joy. It's also a time to check if everyone is doing well.' He added, 'While we strive to provide enjoyment in this isolated environment, the crew finds it most difficult due to the lack of dining out options. They often wish for meals prepared by someone other than me.' Anticipation is high to see how the four 'Honorary Antarctic Chefs' will bring new flavors and support to the overwintering crew amidst the limited resources.

'Climate and Environment Project - Chef in Antarctica' airs every Monday at 10:50 PM KST. It is available on U+tv and U+ mobiletv every Monday at 12:00 AM KST.

Netizens commented, 'They must have been so disappointed when they couldn't fly due to the weather after going through so much hardship,' 'With Baek Jong-won, I bet we can eat delicious food even in Antarctica,' and 'This program makes us realize the seriousness of climate change once again.' They expressed their support and anticipation.