'Kumusta': Ji Chang-wook swaps scripts for sisig
Korean actor Ji Chang-wook is trading his leading-man roles for an apron — stepping out of K-drama romance and into the world of Filipino cuisine.
At the media conference held at the Sheraton Hotel in Pasay City, Chang-wook opened up about what drew him to the project.
"When I was offered to join 'Kumusta,' I found it very interesting. Introducing Filipino cuisine to Korea was a compelling idea for me, and I felt I could be a real help to the program," the actor said through an interpreter.
"I truly appreciate being part of 'Kumusta,' " he added. "I gave everything I had to this program."
The Korean heartthrob also came clean about why he opted to work the floor rather than the kitchen — and delivered a self-deprecating punchline in the process.
"Actually, there is one reason that I chose to serve in a restaurant. It's because I'm not good at cooking, if I go to the kitchen, it's gonna be a big trouble for them," he said.
The show blends food and cultural exchange, pulling its stars out of their on-screen comfort zones to run a fully operational Filipino pop-up restaurant in one of Seoul’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Along the way, they learn to prepare and serve beloved Filipino comfort food — from Chicken Inasal and Kare-Kare to Sisig and the ever-iconic Lechon — giving Korean diners an exciting first taste of Philippine flavors.
The cast commits fully to the experience, spending up to 12 hours a day over seven consecutive days preparing, cooking, and serving dishes to an eager new audience.
Helming the kitchen is Chef JP Anglo, a respected culinary figure and former MasterChef Philippines judge who anchors the show’s culinary direction — bridging Philippine heritage with Seoul’s discerning food scene.
According to Chef JP, working with Chang-wook behind the camera made it more real.
"He's such a good guy, really. When we were doing this show, the camera just disappeared — it wasn't visible anymore. That's why it all felt so real. Everyone was just so genuine," Chef JP said.
For actress Jodi Sta. Maria, the experience left a lasting impression.
"The most memorable part for me was how four or five strangers came together and became a family. It was really the camaraderie — that bond everyone built," Sta. Maria said.
"Kumusta" is fully produced by E&S Partners, a subsidiary of Echolive Korea — the company behind Waterbomb Manila in 2025. Beyond Jodi, Chef JP, and Chang-wook, the series also features Janella Salvador, Francine Diaz, and Arci Muñoz, with guest appearances from South Korean stars Kim Min-seok, Kim Myung-soo, and Seo In-guk.
"Kumusta" premieres on May 24, at 6:45 p.m. as part of TV5’s Weekend Trip block, and will also be available on the Viu app.