Controversy Surrounding 'Black & White Chef': What's the Issue?
The Netflix show 'Black & White Chef: The Culinary Class War' has stirred anticipation for its second season. However, the cast members are entangled in several controversies, blending excitement with concern among viewers. These issues raise questions about the show's credibility and fairness, highlighting the need for thorough vetting of participants. As the team prepares for season two, more meticulous screening and management are essential.
Yu Bibim's Unlawful Business Operations Controversy
Yu Bibim was once jailed for running an unauthorized restaurant. He later admitted to operating a restaurant under his wife's name. In 2015, he was sentenced to eight months in prison for illegal operations but received probation on appeal. This revelation shocked viewers and undermined the show's reliability.
Chef Lee Young-sook's Debt Scandal
Renowned chef Lee Young-sook is embroiled in a controversy after it was revealed that she borrowed approximately 100 million KRW from an acquaintance and failed to repay it for 14 years. While Lee claims to have settled the debt, the victim’s family disputes this, insisting a substantial amount remains unpaid. This situation prompts a reevaluation of the cast's moral standards and responsibilities.
Chef Kang Seung-won's Personal Life Scandal
Chef Kang Seung-won faces controversies due to his ex-wife's claims of employment lobbying and infidelity. He publicly confessed to having relationships outside of a common-law partnership, causing significant backlash. Such personal scandals negatively impact the show's image.
The Need for Thorough Participant Screening
These controversies underscore the risks inherent in casting everyday people in reality shows and stress the importance of verifying participants' backgrounds. As casting for the second season proceeds, greater caution must be exercised. Despite the show's success, additional scrutiny and management are necessary to maintain trust and fairness.

About 'Black & White Chef'...
- 'Black & White Chef' is a Netflix cooking survival show that gained tremendous popularity, securing the production of a second season by 2024.
- Yu Bibim previously operated an unauthorized restaurant, served a suspended sentence, and later confessed to running a restaurant under his wife's name.
- Chef Lee Young-sook sparked controversy by failing to repay a significant loan from an acquaintance for 14 years.
- Chef Kang Seung-won was implicated in various personal life scandals, including allegations from his ex-wife.
- These controversies highlight the risks of reality shows and emphasize the importance of thorough background checks on participants.