Michelin-star chefs to compete in season two of ‘Culinary Class Wars’
Premiering on Netflix on Dec. 16, the culinary competition show teases legendary White Spoon contestants and returning faces from season one
Judges Paik Jong-won and three Michelin-starred chef Anh Sung-jae return as judges.
Netflix
Words by Daniel Anderson
Netflix is sharpening its knives for the return of Culinary Class Wars, unveiling the main trailer for season two.
The show’s central rivalry remains: elite “White Spoon” chefs facing off against the underground talents of the “Black Spoons,” with blind tastings returning as the ultimate equalizer.
The White Spoon roster once again reads like a culinary who’s who. Two-Michelin-star chef Lee Jun and cross-disciplinary Michelin talent Son Jong-won headline the brigade. They’re joined by Venerable Sunjae, South Korea’s pioneering master of Buddhist temple cuisine. Additional veterans include Chinese cuisine authority Hou Deok-juk, French cuisine master Park Hyo-nam, as well as well-known South Korean chefs Jung Ho-young, Sam Kim, Raymon Kim, and Song Hoon.
On the other side of the kitchen arena, the Black Spoons return with their signature flair—and dramatic monikers—such as “Three Star Killer,” “Seochon Prince,” “Culinary Monster,” and “Barbecue Lab Director.”
One element still unclear is whether any Korean American chefs will join the season two lineup. The first season’s breakout finalist Edward Lee, who became a fan favorite, raised the profile of Korean American culinary voices in the competition.
The trailer did tease some masked contestants returning and aiming for redemption in season two. Culinary business tycoon and restaurateur Baek Jong-won and three-Michelin star chef Sung Ahn of Mosu also return as lead judges.
The South Korean cooking showdown quickly transformed into a global sensation in its debut season, climbing to the top of Netflix’s Global Top 10 (Non-English TV) list for three consecutive weeks—an unprecedented achievement for a South Korean unscripted series. Its success also ignited a renewed appetite for South Korea’s dining scene, sending reservation numbers soaring at many of the restaurants spotlighted on the show.
Culinary Class Wars season two premieres on Netflix on Dec. 16.
Published on December 2, 2025
Words by Daniel Anderson
Daniel Anderson is a disabled Chinese American adoptee based in Seattle. His freelance writing specialties include K-pop, entertainment, and food. He believes that any restaurant can be a buffet, and the key to success is to take a nap each day. Follow his adventures on Instagram @danzstan.