Rakuten Viki, the global streaming destination for Asian entertainment, today announced the Southeast Asia-exclusive premiere of Bonjour Bakery, a new Korean variety series where four acclaimed actors — Kim Hee-ae, Cha Seung-won, Kim Seon-ho, and Lee Ki-taek — serve French-inspired desserts at a rural café.
Introducing what producers describe as Korea’s first “Senior Dessert Café,” the series operates under a “Yes Senior Zone” concept, reserving the café exclusively for older guests above 65 and their companions. Departing from conventional competition formats, Bonjour Bakery builds its narrative through unscripted exchanges and everyday human moments — each episode anchored by elderly guests sharing personal stories over desserts crafted from locally sourced Korean ingredients.
The cast is divided between kitchen and front-of-house roles. Cha Seung-won (Hwayugi), known for his cooking skills on the long-running Three Meals a Day, leads as head pâtissier, with the youngest cast member Lee Ki-taek (The Practical Guide to Love) bringing a spontaneous, energetic presence as his assistant.
On the floor, Kim Hee-ae (Moonlit Winter) oversees guest interactions as general manager, while Kim Seon-ho (100 Days My Prince) — widely beloved as the “Nation’s Grandson” — serves as barista, connecting with guests through his characteristically warm demeanor. The contrast in personalities across both teams drives much of the show’s tone, balancing structure with improvisation and light moments with more reflective ones. The series is also set to feature guest bakers throughout the season, adding fresh dynamics to the café’s growing story.
Central to the format is its intergenerational storytelling. Elderly guests are invited to share unfiltered accounts of their lives — woven naturally into the rhythm of hospitality and dessert service. All four cast members completed hands-on baking or barista training ahead of production, reinforcing the show’s commitment to authenticity.
With its focus on warmth and emotional resonance, Bonjour Bakery is positioned to appeal across generations — from younger viewers drawn to its star-studded cast to older audiences who may see their own stories reflected on screen.
Bonjour Bakery premieres May 8 on Rakuten Viki, available across Southeast Asia including Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand. The addition continues Viki’s expansion into variety entertainment, alongside recent acquisitions I Live Alone and The Return of Superman.
