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A new Wavve streaming series, “Chefs of the Gongyanggan” (“공양간의 셰프들”), is offering viewers a unique glimpse into the world of Korean temple cuisine. Premiering February 13th, the series follows six renowned Buddhist monks as they prepare and share meals, exploring the philosophy and practice behind this traditional culinary art. The show is already generating buzz, with viewers captivated by the dedication and artistry on display.
The series features Sunjae Seonm, Gyeho Seonm, Jeokmun Seonm, Daean Seonm, Jeonggwan Seonm, and Ugwan Seonm, each bringing their unique expertise to the kitchen. “Chefs of the Gongyanggan” isn’t just about cooking; it’s a deep dive into the spiritual and mindful practices that inform the creation of each dish. As vegan and plant-based diets gain global popularity, the series offers a compelling look at a centuries-old tradition that prioritizes healthy, sustainable eating.
A Lineup of Temple Cuisine Masters
The series showcases the “signature dishes” of six masters of temple cuisine, a practice that was designated as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2025, according to Megaeconomy. Among them is Sunjae Seonm, known for his appearance on the Netflix original series “Black and White Chef Season 2” as ‘Baeksujeo,’ and Jeonggwan Seonm, who gained international recognition through “Chef’s Table.”
The show’s first episode features the six monks preparing individual dishes and sharing a meal together. Jeonggwan Seonm remarked that the experience felt like a cooking competition, while Sunjae Seonm observed Ugwan Seonm, a “New York-educated” monk, and playfully commented, “We wouldn’t use ingredients like that, he’s already showing his youth!” as reported by Star News Korea.
Sunjae Seonm’s Journey to Wellness
The series also touches upon the personal journeys of the monks. Sunjae Seonm, for example, revealed he was once given a one-year life expectancy due to liver cirrhosis, but credits temple cuisine with his recovery. This personal story adds another layer of depth to the series, highlighting the healing power of mindful eating and traditional Korean cuisine.
The show’s appeal extends beyond culinary enthusiasts. It’s a chance to witness a unique cultural practice and explore the intersection of food, spirituality, and well-being. As one Facebook post promoting the series states, “서로의 마음이 오갈 수 있겠다” (“You can feel each other’s hearts”), suggesting the show offers a heartwarming and insightful experience. Wavve’s Facebook page is actively promoting the series with this sentiment.
What’s Next for “Chefs of the Gongyanggan”?
“Chefs of the Gongyanggan” is currently streaming exclusively on Wavve. The series promises to delve deeper into the individual stories of each monk and explore the nuances of temple cuisine, offering viewers a unique and enriching viewing experience. As the series unfolds, it will be compelling to see how these culinary masters continue to innovate and share their wisdom with a wider audience.
What are your thoughts on the growing interest in mindful eating and traditional cuisines? Share your comments below and let us know if you’ll be tuning in to “Chefs of the Gongyanggan!”
