Like most K-pop singers, Heechul’s star power extends further than the stage. The Super Junior member recently joined new Korean food talk show Wednesday Dining that is a TV dream for foreign foodies.
The program explores renowned restaurants, exquisite cuisine and unique recipes of South Korea into viewers homes along with Heechul’s buoyant personality and unmistakable laugh. The 31-year-old was casted alongside Urban Zakapa’s Park Yong In, actor Kim Yu Seok, lawyer Kang Yong Seok and “food stylist” Hong Shin Ae.
Since its Jan. 21 premiere, Heechul has already pushed himself outside his comfort zone, like in a recent episode where the singer tries boneless chicken for the first time in his life (see the photo above). We caught up with the star to chat about his new show, 2015 plans and what Korean dishes and recipes he thinks we explore.
BILLBOARD: Are you having fun on Wednesday Dining?
Heechul: Yes, I am really enjoying talking about various Korean dishes on the show. However, sometimes talking about food itself makes me so hungry (laughs).
Why did you decide to join this show?
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First, I mistakenly thought it was about tasting many different foods, which made me a little worried because I am a picky eater. Later, I found out that it is not a typical food show and they want my opinion on behalf of viewers who are not particularly into discovering a wide spectrum of food choices. I try to deliver my honest thoughts on each subject.
Can you describe the show to those who haven’t seen it yet?
Wednesday Dining is a talk show exploring origins and cultural backgrounds of popular Korean food and renowned restaurants to help viewers fully enjoy what they eat.
What’s the best part about being on the show?
Meeting great people and sharing thoughts on food is the best part. These days, eating well is important as it also goes with broader social life. I am a guy who thinks if I get to know at least one good person during any program, it is valuable already.
Other than eating, what else do you have planned for 2015?
I am thinking about forming a band with Jungmo from Trax. I have been focusing on writing lyrics lately. Since I’m done with my military duty, I plan to go abroad more often whether it is for work or for vacation (laughs). I would love to explore various parts of the world.
What do you have planned for Super Junior in 2015?
I will be joining Super Junior’s world tour. I hope I have a chance to spend time with other members for a day or two to travel.
What are some Korean dishes you’d suggest we try?
Please note that I do not eat chicken, fish, shrimp and food that is too salty, too sweet or greasy…
1. Fried rice — with kimchi or vegetables. I cannot eat if it’s fired with too much oil, though.
2. Hoengseong Korean Beef — Hoengseong is my home town. Hoengseong Korean beef is as famous as me in Korea. Its taste is so great that I skip beef altogether when I’m in Seoul.
3. Japanese ramen — Oops! This is not Korean. “Sorry, Sorry…”
Wednesday Dining airs on CJ E&M’s general entertainment channel tvN every Wednesday at 11:00pm KST.