CNN Original Series ‘K-Everything’ is turning its focus to Korean cuisine in its latest episode, with actor and executive producer Daniel Dae Kim exploring the stories, traditions and emotions that have shaped South Korea’s globally celebrated food culture. The episode, titled K-food, traces the rise of Korean cuisine beyond barbecue and examines how food has become deeply connected to identity, nostalgia and cultural pride.

According to a CNN press release, the episode takes viewers across South Korea, from traditional kimchi-making festivals in Pyeongchang to bustling food markets and Michelin-starred restaurants in Seoul. Through personal memories and conversations with chefs, food stylists and restaurateurs, Kim explores how Korean food reflects the country’s history, resilience and transformation over the decades.

The episode begins in Pyeongchang, where Daniel Dae Kim joins one of South Korea’s largest kimjang gatherings, an annual community tradition where large quantities of kimchi are prepared ahead of winter. Accompanied by his parents, Kim revisits the cultural importance of food and family before heading to Seoul, where he meets food stylist Ellie Lee, who recreates a dish featured in the global hit series ‘Squid Game’. The segment highlights the growing influence of Korean entertainment and media in popularising Korean cuisine around the world.

Kim also visits Gyeongdong Market, known for its vibrant street food culture, where he reconnects with flavours from his childhood. The journey further brings him together with renowned chef Corey Lee, the first Korean chef to earn three Michelin stars for his San Francisco restaurant Benu. Together, they explore some of Seoul’s hidden culinary gems, including a small family-run restaurant serving raw soy-marinated crab.

The episode also delves into Korea’s unique drinking culture and social etiquette around food and alcohol. Acclaimed chefs Corey Lee, Mingoo Kang and Lucia Cho guide Kim through traditions that remain an important part of Korean social life. Another segment sees Kim visiting GS25, one of Korea’s popular convenience store chains, showcasing the country’s love for snacks and quick comfort food.

In another emotional moment, Kim and Corey Lee share a meal of kimchi jjigae, or kimchi stew, a dish deeply rooted in Korea’s history of hardship and survival. The episode later moves to a mountainside retreat in Pyeongchang, where Chef Cho Hee-sook, often referred to as the ‘Godmother of Korean cuisine’, introduces Kim to the foundational sauces and flavours that define Korean cooking.

The episode concludes on a personal note as Daniel Dae Kim and his parents share jjajangmyeon, or black bean noodles, while reflecting on their memories of growing up in rural Pennsylvania during the 1970s. Through food and conversation, the series captures how cuisine often becomes a bridge between generations and cultures.

‘K-Everything’ continues CNN’s host-led storytelling format focused on global culture and human experiences. The series is sponsored by Hyundai Motor Company and will premiere its ‘K-food’ episode on May 23 at 8pm HKT on CNN International, with additional repeat telecasts and streaming availability across CNN platforms and HBO Max where available.