The second season of Netflix’s culinary competition series, Culinary Class Wars, has concluded with Choi Kang-rok emerging as the champion. This season showcased a variety of cooking challenges, culminating in a dramatic finale that aired on January 13, 2026.
Choi Kang-rok Claims Victory in Culinary Class Wars Season 2
Choi Kang-rok is a chef from White Spoon and notably the only returning contestant from the previous season. In a heartfelt moment during the finale, Choi expressed humility, stating that he represents the countless chefs working diligently in kitchens across Korea. His commitment to the culinary arts shone through while discussing his journey and the relationships he built throughout the competition.
The Finale Challenge
In the finale, Choi faced off against Lee Ha-sung, known as the “Culinary Monster.” The challenge was to prepare a dish centered on the theme “Just One Dish For Myself,” a concept both chefs found difficult given their training in serving others. Lee opted for sundaeguk, a traditional blood sausage soup inspired by childhood memories. However, it was Choi’s sesame tofu soup paired with soju that won over the judges.
- Winner: Choi Kang-rok
- Runner-up: Lee Ha-sung (“Culinary Monster”)
- Prize Money: 300 million won (approximately $203,000)
Judges Ahn Sung-jae and Paik Jong-won unanimously voted for Choi, praising his dish as “really honest.” Their decision highlighted Choi’s skill and the emotional depth of his culinary creation.
Choi Kang-rok’s Culinary Journey
At 47, Choi’s path to cooking was unconventional. Initially aspiring to be a drummer, he took kitchen jobs to support his musical ambitions. An inspiring manga, Mr. Sushi King, reignited his interest in cuisine, leading him to enroll at Japan’s Tsuji Culinary Institute after several unsuccessful business ventures.
Choi gained fame in 2013 by winning MasterChef Korea. At that time, he was a tuna trader, buried under debts from failing restaurants. His victory on MasterChef marked a pivotal moment in his life.
Television Appearances and Publications
Choi’s television career extends beyond Culinary Class Wars. He has made guest appearances on various cooking shows and hosted The Blank Menu For You on Netflix. His culinary versatility and charm have won him a dedicated following.
In addition to his on-screen presence, Choi is an accomplished author. His recent works include:
- 2023: Choi Kang-rok’s Cooking Notes
- 2025: Cooking For Life
During public appearances, he has shared insights from his writing, noting the importance of everyday stories from his experiences.
The Future of Choi Kang-rok
Choi recently closed his Japanese restaurant, Neo, in Seoul’s Songpa district, opting to focus on new projects. Alongside Culinary Class Wars, he is also part of a YouTube travel series titled Food Otaku, which explores Japan’s finest culinary offerings.
Looking ahead, Choi dreams of opening a combined library and kitchen space that would showcase his extensive cookbook collection. As he approaches his 50s, he is considering how his cooking style may evolve with age, emphasizing growth and adaptation in his culinary journey.
Choi Kang-rok’s victory in Culinary Class Wars Season 2 not only solidifies his status as a celebrated chef but also marks a new chapter in his intriguing culinary story.
