Ahn Seong-jae, on the Popularity of 'Culinary Class Wars': "Thankful for Increased Interest in the Restaurant Industry"... Anticipation for Season 3

Netflix's variety show 〈Culinary Class Wars〉 series judge Ahn Seong-jae Chef expressed gratitude for the increased interest in the restaurant industry due to the program's success.

On the 21st, at a panel talk for 'Next On Netflix 2026 Korea' held at a hotel in Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, Chef Ahn stated, "I am very thankful that many people are showing interest in the wonderful profession of the restaurant industry through 〈Culinary Class Wars〉, and that they are visiting restaurants to have various experiences as someone working in the restaurant industry."

He added, "Through the series, we were able to discover chefs we didn't know about and try new foods, and I am just grateful for all the love we have received."

〈Culinary Class Wars〉 gained great popularity with its concept of 'white spoon' star chefs recognized for their skills through the Michelin Guide, competing against 'black spoon' chefs who are highly skilled but not yet well-known.

Season 1, released in 2024, became the first Korean variety show to rank first for three consecutive weeks in the non-English show category on Netflix, and Season 2, which premiered at the end of last year, also maintained its success by ranking first for two consecutive weeks in the non-English show category.

Chef Ahn remarked, "The 100 chefs who participated in Season 2 were so charming and skilled at cooking that I thought they were amazing while judging, and it was also fun to watch as a viewer," attributing the show's popularity to the participants.

On this day, Netflix announced that the third season will be released in the fourth quarter of this year, and Chef Ahn expressed his anticipation for the upcoming new season.

Unlike the previous two seasons, which were conducted as individual competitions, Season 3 will feature four chefs working together in a restaurant to compete as a team.

Chef Ahn mentioned, "The announcement for Season 3 participants has gone up, and as far as I know, many chefs are applying. I am the most excited. I would appreciate it if everyone could show a lot of interest," he urged.