J.Y. Park, the iconic singer and producer behind K-Pop giants like TWICE and Stray Kids, recently gave fans an insightful look into his unexpected bond with Michelin-star chef Son Jong Won. During the July 26 episode of JTBC’s ‘Please Take Care of My Refrigerator,’ Park revealed how he first discovered the culinary genius and even played a role in his rise to fame.
J.Y. Park’s Culinary Discovery
Park recalled stumbling upon Son’s restaurant long before the chef became a household name. He shared his initial impression, stating he was so captivated by the food that he made the unusual move of obtaining the chef’s contact information. “I usually don’t prefer fine dining, but this chef was special. He was the only chef whose number I kept. This was before ‘Black and White Chefs 1’ had aired,” Park explained, highlighting Son’s unique talent that stood out even to someone not typically drawn to haute cuisine.
From Recommendation to Michelin Star: Chef Son’s Rise
J.Y. Park wasn’t just an early admirer; he actively encouraged Son Jong Won to take his career to the next level. Park proudly shared that he urged Son to participate in the Netflix cooking competition ‘Black and White Chefs 2.’ “I told him he absolutely had to be on the show. Without me, people might not have known Chef Son Jong Won,” he asserted, suggesting his pivotal influence in bringing Son into the wider public consciousness.
Indeed, Son Jong Won’s profile steadily rose after these appearances. He gained significant recognition after his stint on ‘Please Take Care of My Refrigerator’ and impressively advanced to the top 7 on ‘Black and White Chefs 2,’ showcasing his formidable culinary skills on a national platform. His renown soared even higher when he was entrusted with leading state dinners for South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and French President Emmanuel Macron and their spouses, a testament to his exceptional talent and esteemed reputation.
The Friendly Battle for Credit
The segment took a humorous turn as the show’s hosts playfully vied for credit in supporting Son’s illustrious career. Former footballer Ahn Jung Hwan cheekily joked, “We raised Chef Son. We cheered him on even when he was peeling garlic abroad.” Fellow cast members Kim Poong and Kim Sung Joo joined in, humorously claiming their part in nurturing his success. Park, with a characteristic grin, retorted, “What you say you raised, I actually did,” playfully reclaiming his role. Amidst the friendly banter, Chef Son Jong Won, ever humble, graciously gave credit to his mother for his achievements, eliciting laughter from the entire cast.
J.Y. Park’s Personal Health Update
In the same revealing episode, J.Y. Park also shared a personal health update that impressed many. He announced that his body fat percentage had dropped to an astonishing 9.2% for the first time, a remarkable feat of dedication. To maintain this impressive physical condition, Park revealed his disciplined plan to avoid carbohydrates for the next three months, underscoring his commitment to a healthy lifestyle.
