发布时间: 1/12/2026
Im Woo-il’s Unforgettable Culinary Moment on Chef & Hunter
Broadcaster Im Woo-il is opening up about the most unforgettable meal he encountered while filming Channel A’s new survival culinary variety show, Chef & Hunter. During the online press conference held on the morning of January 8, Im didn’t hesitate to name bibimbap as the dish that left a lasting impression on him, calling it a truly transformative food experience that shifted his entire perspective on Korean cuisine.
When asked to pick a meal he’d remember for years to come, Im started with a playful, knowing note, saying, “I think everyone will instantly recognize this one” before immediately mentioning bibimbap. He went on to emphasize, “Isn’t bibimbap such an iconic Korean dish? It’s a staple that almost everyone loves, but this version was something else entirely.” His excitement was palpable as he recalled the moment, making it easy for listeners to share in his enthusiasm.
Im Woo-il specifically highlighted Chef Edward Lee as the mastermind behind this memorable bibimbap, even joking, “Didn’t Edward Lee hyung call himself a ‘bibimbap human’?” His warm laughter added a relatable, human touch to the story, showing just how much fun the cast had during filming. He then stressed that this bibimbap was nothing like the version most people are familiar with—its unique twist made it a meal he’d never forget.
The bibimbap in question was crafted entirely using locally sourced ingredients gathered during the show’s filming, which made it stand out from the standard versions we eat every day. Im shared the shock he felt when he tasted it, saying, “I couldn’t believe how amazing a bibimbap made only with local ingredients could be. It was beyond anything I’d ever experienced, like a whole new world of flavors opened up for me.”
To describe the impact of the meal, Im used a vivid, heartfelt metaphor, saying, “I felt like my tongue was a frog stuck at the bottom of a well, and suddenly it got to see the outside world.” This comparison showed just how much this dish changed his perspective on food, moving far beyond simple likes or dislikes. He added, “It wasn’t just about the taste being good or bad—it was on a whole other level. This one meal completely shifted how I think about culinary experiences and the potential of using local, fresh ingredients.”
What to Expect from Chef & Hunter
Chef & Hunter is more than just a typical food show; it’s a survival culinary adventure where cast members hunt for their own ingredients in extreme natural settings before cooking up delicious meals alongside talented chefs. Instead of focusing solely on eating, the show aims to highlight the value of each ingredient, the effort that goes into sourcing them, and the essence of cooking, leading to many unforgettable meals like Im’s bibimbap.
This bibimbap moment is set to be one of the show’s most iconic scenes, showcasing the unique collaboration between hunters and chefs to create something extraordinary using only what nature provides. Fans of culinary shows, Korean variety programs, and outdoor adventures won’t want to miss this exciting new series that blends excitement, delicious food, and heartwarming stories.
Mark your calendars: Channel A’s Chef & Hunter premieres on January 8 at 10 PM KST, bringing viewers a mix of thrilling outdoor challenges, creative cooking, and unforgettable moments that celebrate the beauty of Korean cuisine and nature.