Korean superstar Ji Chang-wook shared that he genuinely enjoyed his experience filming the upcoming reality show ‘Kumusta’, despite the challenges that came with it.
The actor joins Filipino stars Jodi Sta. Maria, Arci Muñoz, Janella Salvador, and Francine Diaz in the culinary travel program produced by TV5 and Viu.
During the show’s mediacon at the Sheraton Manila Hotel, Ji Chang-wook expressed gratitude for being part of the project, noting that his role was initially meant to be brief.
“And I really had a happy experience participating the program Kumusta. As you watch the teaser, it’s gonna be a warm and healing program.”
“Actually, I was just a guest of this program, but I would like to appreciate your warm welcome and warm invitation to this program. Kamsahamnida.”
He also encouraged viewers to support the show.
“As all the members of Kumusta try their best, we would like to ask for your interest and support for the program.”
Set in Gangnam, Seoul, ‘Kumusta’ follows the cast as they manage a fully operational Filipino pop-up restaurant, introducing Korean diners to Filipino cuisine.
Under the guidance of chef-restaurateur JP Anglo, the group prepares and serves local favorites such as chicken inasal, kare-kare, sisig, and lechon.
For seven consecutive days, the cast takes on the demanding task of cooking and serving meals for up to 12 hours a day—testing both their endurance and teamwork.
According to E&S Partners CEO Jack Hyunsoo Noh, the show offers a fresh take on Philippine television.
“Kumusta is a fresh take on Philippine television. It brings together Korean and Filipino stars in a way that feels natural. Through food, travel, and shared experiences.”
Chef JP Anglo also praised the cast’s dedication despite their lack of professional kitchen experience.
“Like they were troopers. They embraced their roles as they would embrace their characters when they act. And it was actually pretty impressive to watch.”
He added that the experience was a meaningful one, even for him as a seasoned chef.
“It was really a full circle for me because that’s how I started… On the third day, fourth day, I was excited actually to go to work or to go to the kitchen because I got my groove back.”
The show highlights the connection between Filipino and Korean cultures through food and shared experiences.
Ji Chang-wook noted that despite cultural differences, people connect in similar ways through dining and community.
‘Kumusta’ also features guest appearances from Korean celebrities Kim Min-seok, Kim Myung-soo, and Seo In-guk.
Produced by E&S Partners, a subsidiary of Echolive Korea, the show is set to premiere on May 24, 2026, at 6:45 p.m. as part of TV5’s Weekend Trip block and will also be available on the Viu app.
More than a cooking show, ‘Kumusta’ aims to demonstrate how food can bridge cultures—bringing people together through shared stories, flavors, and experiences.
