Actor Park Ji Hoon is turning his long-time passion into reality with his upcoming drama The Legendary Cook Soldier, revealing that his desire to wear a military uniform played a key role in choosing the project.
Set to premiere globally on May 11 via TVING, The Legendary Cook Soldier tells the story of Kang Sung Jae, a low-ranking private who swaps guns for kitchen knives and rises to become a “legendary cook soldier.” The drama blends military life with fantasy and culinary elements, offering a fresh take on the genre.
Known among fans as a “military enthusiast,” Park Ji Hoon shared candidly, “I always wanted to wear a military uniform through a project, and I also wanted to challenge myself with something new.” His character Kang Sung Jae particularly drew him in, as it portrays a young soldier adapting to unfamiliar surroundings while building his place through determination and skill.
To fully embody the role, Park Ji Hoon went beyond basic preparation. He revealed that he took cooking lessons prior to filming, steadily improving his knife skills to make the portrayal more convincing. This dedication raises anticipation for the drama’s cooking scenes, which are expected to be a major highlight.
The series also incorporates a unique “quest system,” where Kang Sung Jae levels up his cooking abilities with the help of a virtual guide called “Guardian.” Park Ji Hoon explained his acting approach: “I tried to imagine the Guardian as if it really existed in front of me, focusing a lot on my gaze and facial expressions to show the character’s growth.”
Interestingly, the actor expressed a desire to gain the nickname “Kkang Sung Jae,” derived from his character. He shared that the name feels both cute and memorable, adding a personal touch to his connection with the role.
Beyond the storyline, Park Ji Hoon highlighted the drama’s key viewing points, emphasizing character relationships and chemistry. He encouraged viewers to follow Kang Sung Jae’s journey as he forms bonds and evolves within the military environment.
Following his recent success in the film The Man Who Lives With the King, which surpassed 16 million viewers, Park Ji Hoon continues to expand his acting range. With The Legendary Cook Soldier, he not only fulfills a personal dream but also takes on a unique role that could further solidify his position as a versatile actor in the Korean entertainment industry.
Sources: Daum | MBC연예
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