An unexpected crossover between Korea’s business elite and Netflix’s hottest food show is making waves online.
Lee Joo-young, a fourth-generation heiress of DL Group (formerly Daelim Group) and a well-known influencer, sparked buzz after posting a two-shot photo with Chef Son Jong-won, a contestant on Netflix’s Culinary Class Wars: Cooking Class War Season 2 (Black & White Chef 2).
“Eatanic Is the Best” — A Subtle Show of Support
On January 7, Lee shared the photo on her Instagram with the caption:
“Eatanic is the best…”
The post quickly drew attention, as Eatanic Garden is the fine-dining Korean restaurant led by Chef Son Jong-won, located inside Josun Palace Seoul Gangnam, one of Korea’s most luxurious hotels.
The timing made the message even more meaningful. Just one day earlier, Chef Son was eliminated in Episode 11 of Culinary Class Wars Season 2. Many fans interpreted Lee’s comment as a quiet but public gesture of support following his exit from the competition.
From Netflix to High Society: An Unexpected Connection
Chef Son Jong-won has been widely praised throughout the season for his refined approach to modern Korean cuisine and calm leadership style. His appearance alongside a chaebol family member added another layer of intrigue, highlighting how K-food culture now intersects with Korea’s upper social circles.
Lee Joo-young is the granddaughter of Lee Joon-yong, honorary chairman of DL Group, and the daughter of Lee Hae-chang, Executive Vice President and Head of Corporate Strategy at DL Corporation.
Born in 2000, Lee has long attracted media attention. In 2019, she ranked 4th nationwide in Sisa Journal’s report on stock holdings by minors under the age of 19, cementing her reputation as one of Korea’s most closely watched young heirs.
When K-Food Becomes a Cultural Status Symbol
The viral two-shot underscores a growing trend: Korean chefs are no longer just culinary figures — they are cultural icons. From Netflix competitions to Michelin-level restaurants and high-profile social connections, chefs like Son Jong-won represent the global elevation of Korean cuisine.
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KOREA FBI Editor’s Comment
In 2026, influence isn’t defined by boardrooms alone. When a chaebol heiress and a Netflix chef share the same frame, it signals something bigger — K-food has officially entered the realm of cultural prestige.
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