“Plain arrogant” - Culinary Class Wars 2 viewers debate over Culinary Monster’s alleged behaviour amidst cliffhanger ending

The debate around Culinary Monster’s on-screen persona has intensified following Culinary Class Wars season 2. This comes amid the cliffhanger ending of episode 10, in which the result of his one-on-one ‘life-or-death’ match against Son Jong-won remains pending.

Viewers' reactions are mixed, with criticism focusing on perceived “arrogance” rather than cooking skill. Some fans argue his attitude feels excessive, especially when compared to last season’s champion Napoli Matlia. While Matlia was also labeled "arrogant" at times, many felt that "confidence" made the difference. Comments calling for humility followed, with some viewers describing his personality as "unlikable."

"Culinary Monster? I don’t find him likeable at all. Napoli Matlia’s confidence could come off as arrogance, but he was still likeable. This Culinary Monster just feels plain arrogant. #CulinaryClassWars2," an X user commented.

Some online commenters expressed the view that he "looks down" on white chefs and comes across as "so full of himself."

However, not everyone agrees. A segment of the audience on Reddit has defended Culinary Monster, pushing back against the 'arrogance' label. Supporters argue the chef stands out precisely because he is "brutally honest," especially compared to other Black Spoon contestants, many of whom viewers find forgettable this season. Fans defending the chef also noted moments of collaboration. Culinary Monster openly backed other Black Spoon ideas, including Knife Omakase’s tofu cold noodles and BBQ Lab Master’s veal choice.

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Who is Culinary Monster in Culinary Class Wars season 2?

Recognition surrounding Culinary Monster appears before introductions begin on the Culinary Class Wars season 2. In the show, one chef has already referred to him by his name, Hasung Lee, reflecting industry awareness. Before joining the program, his leadership responsibilities were held at Atomix in New York City. During that period, the restaurant earned two Michelin stars.

In addition, his professional experience includes work as a sous chef at The French Laundry. Culinary Monster's training and development continued through roles at Geranium and Gramercy Tavern. According to Chosun Daily, preparations are currently underway for an independent project. A new restaurant named Oyatte is planned to open in New York.

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In other news, the online discussion says that Culinary Monster will be the one to get in the Culinary Class Wars season 2 finals instead of Son Jong-won. This is due to the show’s alleged editing slip-up, which showed his real name on the tag he was wearing during an interview on the show. Notably, the real name only displays for those black spoon chefs who make it till the end.

Edited by Shreya Jha