Yoona's Culinary Brilliance Secures Victory for Joseon in 'The King Chef'

Yoona showcased exceptional ingenuity, leading Joseon to a triumphant win against Ming in a high-stakes culinary competition.

The latest episode of tvN's weekend drama 'The King Chef', aired on the 20th, featured Yeun Ji-yeong (Im Yoon-ah) brilliantly overcoming the challenge posed by Ming's chefs.

As the third round commenced, Ming presented their signature 'Buddha Jumps Over the Wall' soup, while Joseon prepared a nourishing 'Black Bone Chicken and Ginseng Soup' under Ji-yeong's direction. Ji-yeong eagerly awaited the arrival of Jang Chun-saeng (Ko Chang-seok) with his pressure cooker, creating a moment of suspense.

Upon the completion of both dishes, Woo Gon (Kim Hyung-muk) initially disparaged Ji-yeong's creation, deeming it less refined. However, after tasting the soup, he was awe-struck by its perfect flavor, comparing it to a phoenix. Prince Yi Heon (Lee Chae-min) couldn't hide his delight, remarking, "It is truly delicious."

The tasting of Ming's dish followed, with Yi Heon expressing his awe at the "immortal's soup" that evoked cosmic energy. During the tasting and critique phase, where three chefs from each nation would sample and review the opponent's food, Ji-yeong noticed one of the Ming chefs struggling to eat. She deduced he might be suffering from anorexia.

Realizing Woo Gon had strategically put forward a chef unable to eat to avoid giving points, Ji-yeong decided on a bold move. She created a mixed dish, combining elements of her own creation, to ensure the Ming chef could sample it. Presenting it to him, she explained, "When one eats, the eater should be happy, and isn't that the joy of cooking? It tastes delicious when everything is put together like this. I put my wish for your happiness into this dish."

The Ming chef, deeply moved after tasting the soup, confessed with tears, "I was shocked by the incredible taste of my grandmother's mixed dish. You've reached a realm of flavor without tasting, yet I couldn't eat. How can I call myself the best chef when I can't even surpass my grandmother's touch? I lost to you today."

Ultimately, Joseon emerged victorious by a narrow margin of one point. Ji-yeong expressed her joy, saying, "Thank you for the generous score." Yoona's astute strategy and compassionate approach captivated viewers as she steered Joseon to victory.

Im Yoon-ah, globally recognized as a member of Girls' Generation and a accomplished actress, has consistently impressed audiences with her versatile acting skills. She has successfully portrayed a wide range of characters across various genres, earning critical acclaim. Beyond her acting career, Yoona remains a prominent figure in the advertising industry, endorsing numerous high-profile brands.