The Dark History of “Culinary Class Wars” Chefs: Scandals, Debt Controversies, and Illegal Business Operations

Controversies Surrounding “Culinary Class Wars”Non-Celebrity Contestants

The recent scandal involving non-celebrity contestants of the popular show “Culinary Class Wars” has been creating waves in the culinary world. Key figures like Yubibim and Triple Star have found themselves at the center of this controversy, revealing dubious pasts that have impacted their careers and reputations.

Yubibim’s Admission of Wrongdoing

On November 1, contestant Yubibim shockingly confessed to operating an illegal restaurant, revealing, “I have experimented with various businesses, including fruit sales and a food stall. However, each endeavor failed. Since 2003, I have been running a restaurant in an unauthorized location, leading to my arrest and a suspended sentence. I deeply regret my past actions and ceased operations for a year.”

Yubibim further disclosed that he had registered the restaurant under his wife’s name to circumvent regulations. He expressed a desire to return to his culinary roots, stating, “I’m shifting focus to researching bibimbap and writing a comprehensive encyclopedia on the dish. I intend to convert my former restaurant space into a venue for bibimbap exhibitions and performances, ensuring all operations are legal at a new location in Hanok Village.”

The repercussions of Yubibim’s past have been swift, with several of his television appearances affected. Shows such as “You Quiz on the Block” have entirely removed his segment, while “Wow! Really? This Is Incredible” made his preview video private. In addition, Dongwon F&B, which had used him as a promotional model, has ceased all collaborations and deleted previous posts featuring him, as reported by OSEN on November 7.

Triple Star’s Scandalous Revelations

Meanwhile, another contestant, Triple Star (Kang Seung-won), has faced scrutiny due to a scandal surrounding his private life, as uncovered by Dispatch. Allegations arose that he married “A” in May 2022, but the union ended just three months later. Reports have also surfaced regarding his alleged involvement in Michelin employment lobbying, verbal abuse, and threats.

A claimed she had forwarded a luxury bag to help Triple Star, who was studying abroad, believing it would assist him in securing a position at a prestigious restaurant through personal connections.

Chef Lee Young-suk’s Debt Controversy

Chef Lee Young-suk is also facing serious allegations concerning debt. In April 2010, he reportedly signed a promissory note after borrowing 100 million KRW from “B” to fund his local food restaurant. While Lee contends, “All debts have been repaid, this is malicious slander,” recent sources indicate that his appearance fee for “Culinary Class Wars” has been sequestered to address these financial issues.

As the drama unfolds in the culinary community, these controversies continue to unfold, prompting discussions about integrity and the challenges faced by those in the food industry.

Source: Daum

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