Chef Yoo Bang-nyeong recalls late Hyundai chairman Chung Ju-yung's patronage and lavish tips
Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Chef Yoo Bang-nyeong recalled his time working at a Chinese restaurant frequented by the late Hyundai Group honorary chairman Chung Ju-yung.
- Yoo mentioned receiving substantial tips from Chung, enough to buy a building.
- The story was shared on the TV show 'You Quiz on the Block,' where Yoo and fellow chef Lee Yeon-bok discussed their long culinary careers.
Veteran Chinese cuisine chef Yoo Bang-nyeong reminisced about his days at the renowned Seoul restaurant 'Do Won,' where he worked for 30 years. During his tenure, the establishment was a regular haunt for prominent figures, including the late Hyundai Group honorary chairman Chung Ju-yung and the late LG Group honorary chairman Koo Bon-moo.
Appearing on the tvN show 'You Quiz on the Block,' Yoo shared anecdotes from his extensive career. He recalled that when Chung Ju-yung visited, the tips were so generous they could have been used to purchase a building. Yoo also mentioned that wearing the restaurant's uniform offered a smooth passage through ์ฒญ์๋ (Cheong Wa Dae), the presidential office, highlighting the establishment's esteemed clientele.
If you wear the uniform, you pass through Cheong Wa Dae without issue.
On the show, Yoo appeared alongside fellow renowned Chinese chef Lee Yeon-bok. The two chefs, who had previously faced off in a "Street Restaurant Fighter" segment, shared stories from their long journeys in the culinary world. Lee playfully commented on Yoo's long tenure at Do Won, suggesting his loyalty stemmed from more than just the job, hinting at the good compensation he received.
He gave tips in stacks of checks, enough to buy a building.
Originally published by Dong-A Ilbo in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.