Baek Jong-won Faces Controversy Head-On in 'Chef's Table: Class War 2', Earns Chef Acclaim

'The standard for tasting is very clear.' With the premiere of 'Chef's Table: Class War 2', Baek Jong-won, CEO of Theborn Korea, has once again captured public attention.

The Netflix original variety show 'Chef's Table: Class War 2' (hereinafter referred to as 'Chef's Table 2') premiered on the 16th, unveiling episodes 1 through 3. The season immediately captivated viewers with its enhanced cast, set design, and the introduction of 'hidden rules.'

In 'Chef's Table' series, where only two judges must evaluate 100 formidable chefs, the judges' authority is uniquely powerful, especially since public voting is not permitted except in specific rounds. Michelin 3-star chef Ahn Sung-jae and Baek Jong-won, CEO of Theborn Korea and a titan of the food industry, were tasked with satisfying chefs from both the 'white spoon' and 'black spoon' categories.

Coincidentally, prior to the release of 'Chef's Table 2', a wave of criticism had been directed at CEO Baek Jong-won, stemming from allegations of misrepresenting the origin of products sold by Theborn Korea. While Baek Jong-won himself was cleared of the charges related to violating the Food Labeling and Advertising Act, his company and two employees were sent to prosecutors without detention. Despite this, 'Chef's Table 2' boldly broadcasted Baek Jong-won's segments without alteration, opting for a direct confrontation.

Even though controversies surrounding Theborn Korea had already emerged during the filming of 'Chef's Table 2', CEO Baek Jong-won approached the judging with confidence. The chefs' respect for him remained evident. When he took a large bite of a handmade burger as recommended by a chef, exclamations of 'vicarious satisfaction' were heard. The sudden applause prompted Baek Jong-won to react sheepishly, asking, 'Why are you clapping?'

The judging criteria have also become more stringent. Even successful restaurant owners or those who could swiftly prepare a Korean banquet were not easily able to pass. Among the 80 'black spoon' contestants, many were put on hold, with fewer than 10 passing outright. Choi Kang-rok and Kim Do-yoon, who returned as 'hidden white spoon' contestants from Season 1, required unanimous approval from both Baek Jong-won and Ahn Sung-jae from the first round itself. Notably, Michelin 1-star chef Kim Do-yoon was eliminated.

Ultimately, the chefs expressed their recognition, stating, 'Because he understands popular cuisine well, I wanted to be evaluated by him,' 'His standard for tasting is very clear,' and 'His dedication to tasting until the end is amazing.' The 'Chef's Table 2' production team appears to be responding to public scrutiny through the broadcast, setting aside the personal matters of CEO Baek Jong-won, who continues to maintain his stance on suspending broadcasts and focusing on his business.

Netizens have reacted positively to the show, with comments like 'As expected, CEO Baek Jong-won's judging standards are precise,' and 'God Jong-won, even those who don't know food recognize him.' Many also praised the production team's courage for releasing the show amidst the controversy, stating, 'It's brave of the production team to air the show even during difficult times.'