'Culinary Class Wars' Faces Scandal as Contestants’ Past Controversies Come to Light
Nov 03, 2024
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In a related development, tvN's 'You Quiz on the Block' announced on the 3rd that they would edit out Ubibim's appearance from an upcoming episode. Ubibim, known for his role in 'Culinary Class Wars,' recently admitted to past illegal business practices. He confessed to operating a restaurant in an unauthorized location, received probation, and subsequently re-opened the restaurant under loopholes for financial reasons. Ubibim apologized, stating, “I’ll return to my roots,” pledging to open his original space as a free venue for culinary performances with legally sourced ingredients. However, his lighthearted tone on the issue has led netizens to respond with skepticism, suggesting he may be using the apology to justify relocating his restaurant.
This is not Ubibim’s first encounter with legal trouble. Between 2004 and 2013, he faced multiple fines for violating the Food Sanitation Act and the Building Act. In 2014, he was sentenced to prison for unreported business operations, though this was reduced to probation after an appeal. As a result, both 'You Quiz' and 'What on Earth!,' another show where Ubibim previously appeared, have decided to remove his content.
In addition to Ubibim’s controversies, 'Culinary Class Wars' has attracted scrutiny for other contestants' issues. Notably, Triple Star (Kang Seung-won), a well-known chef on the show, faced public backlash on October 30 after his ex-wife revealed troubling details about his personal life. She accused him of infidelity, unethical behavior in his restaurant business, and verbal abuse, releasing a collection of 40 apology letters where Triple Star reportedly admitted to actions such as spying on guests via CCTV. These revelations have tarnished his public image significantly.
Another figure in the spotlight is Lee Young-sook, CEO of Nagyung Mushroom Farm, who has been accused of unpaid debt. Reports surfaced that in 2010, Lee borrowed 100 million won from a friend, Mr. Cho, who passed away three months after the loan’s due date in 2011. When Mr. Cho’s son discovered an IOU in his father’s belongings, he sought repayment. Lee, however, initially denied owing money and later claimed financial hardship despite a court order in 2012. Though Mr. Cho's family managed to reclaim 19 million won by seizing some of Lee's assets, Lee has yet to repay the full amount, despite winning a significant cash prize on Korean Food Battle in 2014.
As 'Culinary Class Wars' gears up for a potential second season, these controversies have fueled discussions on the need for rigorous vetting processes for cast members in high-profile shows.
lunamoon@sportschosun.com
