Kim Junhyun: From Foodie Entertainer to Home Chef on ‘Fun-Staurant’
KBS2’s popular food variety show, New Release Fun-Staurant, is where celebrities develop and showcase original recipes they’ve created themselves. These aren’t just for show — the recipes compete to be turned into real products sold in convenience stores. For anyone who’s ever wondered if their favorite star can cook as well as they eat, this show is a fun testing ground.
Recently, comedian Kim Junhyun — long known for his legendary food-loving persona on TV — joined the show as a new contestant. This time, however, he’s not just eating. He’s cooking. For a celebrity with a strong ‘mukbang’ (eating show) image, it’s a big leap — and one that has fans and critics alike buzzing.
Kim’s Challenge: Transforming Passion into Credibility
The Upside: Practical Recipes and Relatable Energy
Kim’s recipes are inspired by everyday life — quick and hearty meals he’s made for himself over the years. He’s not trying to be the next Gordon Ramsay, but rather the go-to guy for comfort food that anyone can whip up at home.
His humble, humorous personality resonates well with viewers. His approach makes cooking feel accessible rather than intimidating, which is a welcome relief in a world of hyper-perfect culinary content. Even Michelin-starred chef Lee Yeonbok was so impressed he complimented Kim's dishes on air, saying, “I thought he was just good at eating, but he’s actually a great cook.”
For many fans who struggle with cooking, Kim’s journey is encouraging — proof that being passionate about food can translate into learning how to make it too.
The Downside: Expectations vs. Reality
Of course, not everything is smooth-sailing. Some critics think the show may be overhyping Kim's cooking skills just to boost ratings. There’s also concern that slick editing and strategic storytelling could exaggerate what happens behind the scenes, leading viewers to expect Michelin-level food from a man best known for devouring spicy ramen in 30 seconds.
Others have pointed out that Kim's previous forays into cooking online—including his YouTube recipe tutorials—haven’t gained much traction. That disconnect raises questions about whether the public is truly ready to embrace him as a cook, or if they prefer him in his more familiar role of lovable foodie.
Public Reaction and Cultural Significance
Reaction online has been mixed. Supporters point to Kim’s sincerity and growth, applauding his decision to show a new side of himself. They appreciate that unlike some celebrity-chef acts, Kim isn’t trying to be something he's not.
Yet, skepticism lingers. The transformation from “mukbang star” to “home chef” mirrors a broader tension in food media — where entertainment and expertise often blur. Can a comedian known for quantity-eating truly be taken seriously for quality cooking?
This isn’t just about Kim. It speaks to a larger question: Should we hold celebrities aiming to cross into the cooking world to the same standards as trained chefs? Or is there room for DIY charm and relatability in the food space?
Where It’s Heading
Kim Junhyun's appearance on Fun-Staurant reflects the growing interest in food content that’s not just polished but also personal. His presence brings an authenticity that viewers appreciate — even if his knife skills aren’t flawless.
If the producers can strike a balance between fun and credibility, highlighting Kim’s growth without glossing over his imperfections, they might help usher in a new variety of Korean cooking shows: ones where passion counts as much as perfection.
For now, one thing is certain: audiences are watching — and waiting — to see if this mukbang icon can earn a permanent spot at the stovetop.
