A still image from “Culinary Class Wars” is shown in this photo provided by Netflix. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, Nov. 11 (Korea Bizwire) – A month after Netflix’s global culinary competition sensation “Culinary Class Wars” aired its finale, the show faces mounting controversies as allegations of financial misconduct, illegal business operations, and personal scandals have emerged around several contestants.
Lee Young-sook, 69, celebrated on the show as a “master of Korean cuisine,” faces legal troubles over an alleged 100-million-won debt. On November 1, the Nonsan branch of the Daejeon District Court granted a creditor’s request to seize Lee’s appearance fees from the show’s production company.
The debt stems from a 2010 loan that has reportedly remained unpaid for 14 years. Lee allegedly transferred her real estate assets to family members while failing to repay the debt, an action characterized as fraudulent conveyance.
Lee’s representatives stated they are “reviewing the matter with legal counsel” and promised to “fulfill any remaining debt obligations,” while citing communication issues with the creditor.
Yu Bibim, 60, known for his controversial appearance in royal garments on the show, announced the closure of his restaurant following admissions of illegal operations.
Through an Instagram post on November 1, Yu confessed to running an unlicensed establishment since 2003, resulting in a suspended prison sentence. He revealed subsequently operating under his wife’s name to circumvent regulations.
Court records show Yu received an eight-month prison sentence in 2015 for violating food service laws, later reduced to probation on appeal. He had previously incurred multiple fines for similar violations.
Perhaps most dramatically, Kang Seung-won, 33, dubbed “Triple Star” on the show, faces multiple controversies, including allegations of personal misconduct and financial impropriety.
A letter of apology published by Dispatch, a Korean entertainment media outlet, revealed admissions of marital infidelity and inappropriate behavior toward female customers, including secretly watching them through CCTV cameras.
Additional allegations suggest Kang gifted luxury bags to secure employment at Michelin-starred restaurants during his time in the United States. The Seoul Gangnam Police Station has launched a preliminary investigation into embezzlement charges filed through the People’s Petition Board, concerning alleged misappropriation of funds at his restaurant Trid.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
