Actor Choi Soo-jong inherits Choi Bool-am's meal table and introduces 'Korean Table.'

On the 10th, a press conference for the 700th episode of KBS1 'Korean Table' and the new presenter was held at the KBS International Conference Center in Yeouido, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul. Attendees included director Lim Gi-soon, writer Jeon Seon-ae, and actor Choi Soo-jong.

'Korean Table' has served as a 'repository of flavors' that not only records memories and nostalgia but goes beyond a mere food program to document the culture, history, and community stories contained within a meal. It seeks out various foods that continue across seasons and regions, conveying the wisdom of life as well as the warmth of family and neighbors.

Regarding the 700th episode, director Lim Gi-soon noted, "Looking at the 700th special poster, I think the subtitle 'capturing time, recording taste' encapsulates the content best. We can summarize it as a journey of taste that records the times we have lived through food. 'Korean Table' is not just a cooking presentation program; it embodies the joys and sorrows, breaths, and wisdom contained in every meal. Such elements meld into culture and history. In 'Korean Table,' we aim to uncover and convey the warmth and stories embedded in food seasonally and regionally while striving to rediscover and communicate the emotional and cultural values of Koreans. This aspect holds significant meaning," he explained, adding, "I believe we are creating a repository that records and remembers the ingredients and foods that are fading away. Reaching the 700th episode is thanks to the honest accounts shared by the ordinary people and the viewers at the scene.

Writer Jeon Seon-ae stated, "While the significance of the 700th episode is important, it contains the spirit of a new beginning, so we did it differently from the format we previously had. Actors Kang Bu-ja, Lee Jeong-hyeon, and Chef Park Chan-il made grants to celebrate Choi Soo-jong's start. We prepared an episode to look back on the journey of 'Korean Table,' sharing stories and celebrating together."

Starting its first broadcast in January 2011, 'Korean Table,' which has explored the lives and cultures of Koreans over the past 14 years and 3 months, sees the symbolic Choi Bool-am completing his long journey and passing the baton to Choi Soo-jong.

Director Lim said, "For the past 14 years, Choi Bool-am has dedicated himself to traveling nationwide every week without fail. His affection, passion, and sense of duty toward the program were deep. He showed that the quest for the roots of our culture and its origins is not just for broadcasting but must form the basis for a stable community society." He added, "During his recent vacation, many filled that process, and around January, he expressed his desire to pass the torch to his juniors. In essence, Choi Bool-am is our symbol, and every gesture and tone he uses has a special power. I couldn't imagine him stepping back, but I requested him to reconsider multiple times, and he was determined. After much contemplation, we finally decided on Choi Soo-jong as the next presenter."

He added, "When I told Choi Bool-am that Choi Soo-jong became the next presenter, he said he hopes to carry on our deep and rich flavors for a long time. He expressed his support for Choi Soo-jong."

The new guide for 'Korean Table,' Choi Soo-jong, is expected to take on a friendly image as the nation's husband, son, brother, and older brother, becoming a warm friend and familiar neighbor for viewers.

Director Lim Gi-soon explained, "In the first stage of who to choose as the next presenter, we identified the conditions for the presenter. The most critical aspect was that they should be widely recognized across all demographics. They should also be capable of maintaining a good relationship with ordinary people on site by expressing warmth, and more importantly, they should be able to deeply understand the program's identity and the value of documenting food culture and convey that message to viewers from the heart." He noted, "Choi Soo-jong is well-known even to elementary school students. He is a living testament to epic dramas and is also a representative actor of KBS. While Choi Bool-am brings depth from years of experience as a presenter, Choi Soo-jong offers friendliness and intimacy, as he is known as the nation's husband. He radiates healthy energy from his bright and cheerful demeanor, and he is quite emotional as well. There were times when he had to pause recordings due to tears, which signifies his capacity for empathy. I believe he will be able to convey those aspects well."

Writer Jeon Seon-ae commented on the new presenter Choi Soo-jong, stating, "While there was no plan on how to draw him in during the journey with Choi Bool-am, the question now is how to make it Choi Soo-jong's own table from now on."

Choi Soo-jong said, "When the invitation came in, I couldn't easily accept it. 'Korean Table' is Choi Bool-am, and every detail from his gaze to his gestures is impressive. I pondered what kind of expressions I could bring. After deliberating whether I should take on the role, I discussed it with my wife Ha Hee-ra and talked for over an hour with Choi Bool-am. I also received a call from Ko Doo-sim. Choi Bool-am talked about his sense of duty and responsibility and mentioned the personalities of each producer, so I was well-prepared for the filming. Additionally, Ko Doo-sim's comment that "if you empathize and feel like your life, that's the best expression you can give" encouraged me."

Choi Soo-jong continued, "I can't change everything perfectly from the beginning, but I'm gradually incorporating my own touch as I participate in the filming. I've filmed four times now, and I have immense respect for Choi Bool-am. I honestly can't comprehend how he managed this. The average travel distance a day exceeds 900 kilometers, and I find myself being more active and given more tasks as a result. However, the people I meet express how wonderful they feel to see me, which is truly moving. From the elderly to children, their warm welcome has been touching. If Choi Bool-am viewed it leisurely as an elder or observer, I want to meet viewers through roles like father, son, uncle, brother, and older brother."

Many 'Korean Tables' have been introduced over the years. Will Ha Hee-ra's table be introduced as well? Director Lim Gi-soon remarked, "Since we target all Koreans, Ha Hee-ra is among them. If a good opportunity arises, I'd love to introduce it to our viewers at any time."

Choi Soo-jong stated, "If Ha Hee-ra appears, it immediately becomes a different program. It will become a program that conveys her own taste." He added, "During discussions with the production team, we reflected on how for 14 years, we've traveled across the nation, discovering new foods and sharing stories. I asked if there are still target areas left, although we've visited eight so far, it seems endless. Hearing life stories, there were many moving accounts, and revisiting the stories of the parent generation also presented a path forward on how we ought to live. Given that there are still many stories left, I wonder if Ha Hee-ra might join when she turns 90."

'Korean Table' is approaching a new beginning with its 700th episode. Writer Jeon Seon-ae noted, "Some wonder if there is still anything to do, but we are still working hard. We will continue to work diligently, so thank you for watching over us." Choi Soo-jong stated, "Although we express it as tomorrow or the day after, when that day comes, it will be 'today.' Instead of focusing on what I want to do, I will steadily follow the responsibilities and sense of duty and the program's value, reflecting the viewers' hopes and wishes in our production and communication." Director Lim Gi-soon remarked, "Unripe things are said to taste bitter while well-ripened things taste sweet. In the future, 'Korean Table' will strive to become a memorable and sought-after program that leaves a lingering taste."

The 700th episode of KBS1 'Korean Table,' featuring the new presenter Choi Soo-jong, will broadcast at 7:40 p.m. on the 10th.

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