Michelin-starred Labyrinth's LG Han becomes first Singapore chef on South Korea reality show ‘Chef & My Fridge' (VIDEO)
SINGAPORE, May 12 — Singapore's culinary scene just scored a spicy milestone on South Korean TV.
For the first time ever, the hit reality cooking show Chef & My Fridge featured a Singaporean chef — none other than LG Han of Michelin-starred Restaurant Labyrinth — in a special '50 Best' episode aired on May 11.
The concept? Chefs must whip up a dish using ingredients found in a celebrity's fridge.
Representing 'Team Asia' alongside Japan's Yusuke Takada (La Cime) and Hong Kong's Antimo Maria Merone (Estro), Han faced off against 'Team Korea', which included seasoned TV personalities Son Jeong-won, Kwong Seong-jun (aka Napoli Mafia), and Choi Hyun-seok — Han's chosen rival and longtime friend.
'He's the chef who has been on the show the longest and has the highest win rate,' Han said of Choi in an interview with Channel News Asia (CNA).
'When they asked me, 'Can you win against Choi? Why did you pick the oldest chef?' I said, 'He's a legend, and I would love to try to defeat the legend.''
The fridge he raided belonged to none other than Kim Jae-joong, former member of K-pop juggernaut TVXQ.
'My fridge had a lot of Korean ingredients: ssamjang, perilla leaves, gochujang, squid,' Han shared. 'Kim Jae-joong likes really spicy food, like, make you sweat kind of spicy.'
The episode also revolved around the K-pop star's new makgeolli brand.
'So, we had to create a dish suited for makgeolli,' Han explained.
Han's answer? A bold, Singapore-meets-Seoul take on chilli crab — reimagined with Korean pantry staples.
He swapped mantou for grilled rice cakes boiled in makgeolli, added heat with Korean 'death sauce', and used ssamjang in place of garlic and shallots. He also made a side of julienned pear wrapped in kimchi.
'I've been to South Korea quite often and tasted ssamjang, so I kind of knew it should work... but I'd never put those things together, so it was really just pure instinct,' he was quoted as saying.
'Towards the end, my hands were shaking because I was running out of time.'
Though known for his innovative approach at Labyrinth, Han opted for something traditional. 'I didn't want to do a modern, Labyrinth-style dish... I wanted to do something that could showcase Singapore's traditional foods to the world.'
Shooting took 13 hours, and language proved another hurdle. 'I had an earpiece with 'live' translation,' he said.
Asked what he took away from the experience, Han quipped, 'That I still have it in me to cook a delicious Singaporean dish in 15 minutes.'
Han and Choi will reunite in Singapore for a two-night collab at Labyrinth on July 13 and 14, serving their Chef & My Fridge creations and other dishes, paired with makgeolli. Watch Labyrinth's socials for booking updates.
The episode drops on Netflix on June 20.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Forbes
an hour ago
- Forbes
‘Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles' Looks Amazing
Final Fantasy Tactics is one of the best tactical role-playing games ever made, and it is finally getting remastered. Called The Ivalice Chronicles, it will include an enhanced and classic version of the game. The enhanced iteration will include new voiced dialogue, improved user interface, graphical updates, and a new and easier 'Squire' difficulty setting. The latter is actually a sensible addition for modern players, as the original Final Fantasy Tactics was an exacting game. This should come as no surprise, as it was directed by Yasumi Matsuno, who is a somewhat curious figure in gaming. Having worked on previous tactical role-playing games such as Ogre Battle and Tactics Ogre, Final Fantasy Tactics was as meticulous in many ways. While many hadn't played these kinds of tactical role-playing games outside of Japan before, for them, Final Fantasy Tactics was something very new and different. The tactical element, with characters moved around on a virtual board, was a visual and functional departure from the classic Final Fantasy games, and imbued a new kind of strategy. For many, Final Fantasy Tactics is regarded as the definitive tactical role-playing game. Although I would beg to differ, as the Super Robot Wars games, I think, are more involved, and also predate the likes of the first Ogre Battle as well as Final Fantasy Tactics. That aside, this new remaster of Final Fantasy Tactics is most certainly welcomed. Regardless of my personal tactical role-playing game preferences, it is still an excellent game. You should also check out Tactics Ogre: Reborn if you fancy a challenge before this remaster is released. Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles will be released for the PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Switch, Switch 2, Xbox Series X|S and PC on September 30. Follow me on X, Facebook and YouTube. I also manage Mecha Damashii and am currently featured in the Giant Robots exhibition currently touring Japan.
Associated Press
an hour ago
- Associated Press
K!DZ POP CON ASIA: Exhibitor Highlights at K!DZ POP CON 2025
SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 6 June 2025 - The ultimate kids and family event of the year, K!DZ POP CON 2025, is set to take over Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Level 1, Halls A,B,C on 21–22 June 2025, and it's bursting with exciting brand activations, workshops, live entertainment, and must-see experiences from some of the biggest names in kids' entertainment! 21 - 22 June 2025, Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Level 1 (Halls A,B,C) From beloved characters to high-energy activities, K!DZ POP CON promises an unforgettable weekend for the kids and family. This event is proudly supported by the Singapore Tourism Board with Mediacorp as Official Media, Moove Media as Official OOH Media and NTUC First Campus as Strategic Partner. Event Details - Date: 21 - 22 June 2025 Venue: Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Level 1, Halls A,B,C (135,000 sqft!) Watch promo video here: Get tickets: PINKFONG BABY SHARK 10-YEAR ANNIVERSARY Get ready to doo-doo-doo your way into fun as Baby Shark celebrates its 10-year Anniversary at K!DZ POP CON! Snap adorable memories with Baby Shark at the special 10-year Anniversary Photo Zone. Join the Lucky Draw Event for a chance to win fin-tastic Baby Shark prizes. Dive into creativity at the Coloring & Puzzle Corner, where little ones can enjoy fun coloring activities and brain-teasing puzzles. Plus, splash into the Game Zone, packed with exciting games the whole family will enjoy! Also, don't miss the exclusive Baby Shark merchandise at K!DZ POP CON! DISNEY AND PIXAR'S ELIO Get ready, Earthlings! Disney and Pixar's Elio is landing at K!DZ POP CON! Embark on an out-of-this-world adventure through a three-zone cosmic journey inspired by the all-new Elio movie! Create your very own cape and gear up for interstellar travel,dive into some colouring fun with the Elio-themed activity kit, and snap a mind-bending Trick Eye photo as you're 'beamed up' to the Communiverse. Don't forget to get hands-on with Galaxy Slime Making - a cosmic keepsake to bring home as proof of your stellar journey! Disney and Pixar's #ElioSG in cinemas 19 June 2025. MY LITTLE PONY & PEPPA PIG Get ready for a whole lot of fun and magical moments at K!DZ POP CON – with beloved Hasbro favourites PEPPA PIG and MY LITTLE PONY bringing extra joy to the event! It's a party like no other as we celebrate the most adorable news of the year – Mummy Pig's heartwarming pregnancy announcement has taken the world by storm! Now it's time to welcome the newest member of Peppa Pig's family - Evie - in a joy-filled celebration you simply can't miss! Expect laughter, games, photo-ops, and plenty of surprises as we toast to this new chapter for Peppa and her family. But that's just the beginning... MY LITTLE PONY is galloping in with a magical merch drop that will have everypony buzzing! From adorable plushies to must-have blind boxes and dazzling toys, the sparkle is REAL. Whether you're a lifelong fan or discovering magic for the first time, there's something for every dreamer! It's a weekend of wonder, surprises, and unforgettable moments – only at K!DZ POP CON. Don't just hear about it... BE THERE! JUMPTOPIA LITE Get ready for a bouncin' good time with Kiztopia Friends, popping up at K!DZ POP CON with two exciting inflatables, Honey's Meadow Farm and Tiger's Sports Meet, perfect for little adventurers! Watch your little ones zoom down the barnyard slide at Honey's Meadow Farm and jump into action at Tiger's Sports Meet, all while snapping their cutest photos along the way! Whether your kids are mini athletes or farmyard fans, there's non-stop fun waiting for them. Don't miss out on this family-friendly fun adventure! NTUC FIRST CAMPUS: IGNITING YOUNG MINDS THROUGH PLAY & DISCOVERY As the strategic and only preschool partner of K!DZ POP CON 2025, NTUC First Campus reinforces its position as a trusted leader in early childhood education with an inspiring, activity-packed booth for little learners and their families. Step into a vibrant showcase of their well-loved brands - My First Skool, Little Skool-House, and Changemakers! Embark on a hands-on learning journey filled with creativity, exploration, and fun! Highlights include: * Solve a case of the missing character through fun puzzles as a team * Learn about wildlife conservation through interactive displays & craft activities * Hands-on play & open-ended exploration through our Maker's Playground, where children can bring creations to life * Write your own stories & create your very own story puppets * Photobooth! Complete an adventure journey with NTUC First Campus and walk away with a complimentary gift. NTUC First Campus invites you to learn, play, and grow together at K!DZ POP CON 2025. POPULAR Join POPULAR at K!DZ POP CON for a world of fun, learning, and creativity! Discover the bestselling English children's book series—ranging from timeless classics to today's must-reads that kids adore. Don't miss the exciting selection of stationery and Bluey toys—perfect for playtime, school, or thoughtful gifting! Plus, celebrate culture with our unique selection of Wen Chuang (文创) items, suitable for all ages to discover our local heritage. VIPER KIDS Viper Kids is making its Singapore debut at K!DZ POP CON! Get your little adventurers to take on the thrilling Viper Challenge - packed with kids friendly obstacles and loads of fun! It's time to run, jump, climb, and most a blast! Origame Together with Mr Kiasu, Origame will run a Shop Until You Drop Kompetition throughout the event. Mr Kiasu books and Origame games will be given away to EVERY SINGLE WINNER who plays and wins a game of Shop Until You Drop at our tables! Meet & Greet Mr Kiasu There will be special appearances by Mr Kiasu himself from 10-11am every morning! Don't miss the opportunity to come take photos with the legendary Mr Kiasu with your family and friends. Family Game Bundles Origame will also have special prices and bundles for kids and family games at K!DZ Pop Con, so look out for the cheapest prices on your favourite Origame family games! Be Part of the Fun! K!DZ Pop Con Asia is more than just an event - it's a celebration of childhood, imagination, and family bonding. Event Details - Date: 21 - 22 June 2025 Venue: Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Level 1, Halls A,B,C (135,000 sqft!) Tickets for K!DZ POP CON 2025 are now on sale. Follow us on social media for the latest news: Facebook | Instagram | Website Hashtag: #K!DZ The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About the event organiser, Generation Experience Generation Experience is the driving force behind some of Southeast Asia's most exciting pop culture events, including Singapore Comic Con, Creators Con, and K!DZ Pop Con Asia. We bring together fans, creators, and entertainment pioneers to craft unforgettable experiences. Specializing in conceptualizing, curating, and organizing immersive events, our passionate team is led by a veteran with over 30 years of expertise in the MICE industry. With a deep understanding of fandoms and entertainment culture, Generation Experience transforms ideas into dynamic, community-driven events that captivate audiences. About NTUC First Campus NTUC First Campus (NFC) is committed to enabling bright futures for every child and their family by providing quality, inclusive educational and developmental services from infancy to the primary school years. NFC's two preschool brands, My First Skool and Little Skool-House, operate over 180 centres and serve 29,000 children, making it one of Singapore's largest early childhood care and education providers. About Mediacorp Mediacorp is Singapore's national media network and largest content creator. Its purpose is to create engaging and trusted content, as well as to connect communities and inspire people. Mediacorp engages over three million people in Singapore daily across four languages on its digital platforms including mewatch, melisten and six TV channels and 11 radio stations. Beyond Singapore, Mediacorp also has a growing international audience through CNA and content distributed across markets.
Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Yahoo
He drove a bulldozer at Asia's first World Expo. Now, he's one of the event's star architects
In 1970, when the World Fair came to Asia for the first time, Shin Takamatsu was just a student. The aspiring architect was studying at Japan's Kyoto University while supporting a wife and young child, but he desperately wanted to be involved. This was, after all, one of the foremost architectural showcases in the world: over its history, iconic landmarks including the Eiffel Tower, the Statue of Liberty, and the Space Needle were first displayed at the event. So when he heard that the event's construction site in nearby Osaka needed bulldozer drivers, he jumped at the chance, quickly getting his license and taking up a lucrative part-time job that gave him a front-row seat to watch the expo come to life. 'It was an exhilarating feeling to be in the middle of a tremendous creative phase,' Takamatsu recalled. 'Many dazzling, futuristic buildings were being constructed. But as I watched them, I felt that something was missing.' As a student, he didn't know exactly what that was. But the experience stayed with him, and over the years, it shaped his approach to architecture. 'I came to realize that the future cannot be envisioned solely by looking forward. By looking toward the past and interpreting and understanding it, we can develop a perspective on the future,' he said. In his latest project, his architectural philosophy and personal story come full circle: at Expo 2025 Osaka, Takamatsu returns to the event as the architect behind one of its most striking buildings. The pavilion — run jointly by housing company Iida Group and Osaka Metropolitan University — is modeled after a Möbius strip, which 'continues endlessly in a single loop,' and reflects 'reincarnation or sustainability,' explained Takamatsu. The pavilion looks like a delicately wrapped gift box, covered in a vibrant red, cherry blossom-adorned Nishijin brocade — a traditional textile that has been woven in Kyoto for 1,500 years and is typically used for luxury goods, like kimonos and obis, a kind of belt sash. Over 3,500 square meters (37,600 square feet) — the equivalent area of more than eight basketball courts — of the handmade silk material covers the pavilion's exterior, setting a Guinness World Record for the largest building wrapped in Jacquard fabric — a material with the design woven directly into the textile — and another for the largest roof in the shape of a fan. For Takamatsu, the historic textile represented the perfect way to bridge the past and future. 'It is the culmination of techniques that have been continuously refined over those 1,500 years,' he said, adding that architecture like this 'cherishes history and traditions, while proposing a future based on them.' While the use of fabric in architecture is uncommon, textiles have been used in manmade structures for tens of thousands of years. Bedouin tents in the Middle East, Native American teepees, and yurts in the Steppes of Central Asia and Mongolia are all examples of nomadic, semi-permanent structures where fabric provides warmth and protection from the elements, while being lightweight and flexible enough to carry. But modern architects have been reluctant to use fabric in construction, said Sukhvir Singh, a design professor and textiles expert at Shree Guru Gobind Singh Tricentenary University, in India, which he attributes to a lack of familiarity with the materials and their technical properties. It wasn't until the 1960s that architects began experimenting with fabrics: German architect Frei Otto was one of the pioneers of lightweight architecture, and at Expo 1967, hosted in Montreal, his design for the German Pavilion used a tensile steel structure to support a lightweight polyester canopy, leading to its nickname, 'the floating tent.' Since then, textiles have been used frequently in temporary structures for major events, such as the Olympics or World Expos. 'During these mega gatherings, we have less time, and we have to erect many buildings as soon as possible,' explained Singh, adding that textiles, which are lightweight and are largely prefabricated off-site, are often the obvious solution because of their low cost, flexibility, and ease of installation. And there's been a lot of development in the strength and durability of fabrics in recent decades, with carbon fiber-enhanced fabrics that 'are stronger than steel,' as well as 'high-performance textiles' that can provide added functionality to building facades, such as self-cleaning or energy harvesting, said Singh. But using handmade silk brocade is quite different from using synthetic polyesters, and there were many technical challenges to overcome for Takamatsu's pavilion. For example, the textile is 'weak against rain, typhoons, and wind,' so it had to be given a special coating and insulating layers to make it fire and climate-resistant, explained Takamatsu. The fabric was made by HOSOO, a company that's been weaving Nishijin brocade since 1688. Takamatsu approached Masataka Hosoo, the 46-year-old, 12th-generation president of the family business, about four years ago — who was eager to take on the 'unprecedented challenge' of transforming a heritage textile into an architectural structure. 'In fact, I had been nurturing the idea of architectural textiles for over a decade,' explained Hosoo. Nishijin brocade had been declining in demand for decades: in 2008, sales of the fabric had fallen by 80% from 1990. Hosoo saw the need to adapt his family business to modern consumers' needs. So in 2010, the company developed 'the world's first loom' capable of weaving Nishijin textile with a width of 150 centimeters (58 inches), nearly five times the typical width, according to Hosoo. 'Expanding this technique to a much wider format was a significant challenge, requiring extensive innovation and technical precision,' he added. The larger loom enabled the company to apply its fabric beyond kimonos, into products such as cars, camera accessories, and furniture, and has led to collaborations with luxury brands like Gucci and Four Seasons. When it came to weaving the brocade for the pavilion, the larger loom was essential — and even then, it still took a team of multiple artisans and engineers two years to produce the required volume of fabric. 'The shape itself isn't that difficult, but because it's a form that writhes like a dragon, each part has to be bent, and no piece is identical,' said Takamatsu. To help with this process, HOSOO developed proprietary 3D software that could map out the textile, aligning the pattern precisely across the complex curves of the building. 'The possibilities for textiles are limitless. We're excited to further explore how textiles can transform architecture and expand into entirely new domains,' said Hosoo. The Expo in Osaka will run for six months, through to October 13 — at which point, the future of the kimono fabric-covered pavilion is unknown. Historically, Expo pavilions are 'momentary' pieces of architecture that are often dismantled. Some architects lean into that, with eco-friendly construction materials that can be recycled or biodegrade quickly, or modular designs that are easy to disassemble and rebuild. On the other hand, some structures have become so iconic, they've outlived their intended six-month lifespan by decades: the Crystal Palace, which housed the inaugural World Expo in London in 1851, was relocated after the exhibition and remained standing for more than 80 years; and the 'Atomium,' the flagship structure of the 1958 expo in Brussels, Belgium, was so popular that the city decided to keep it, renovating the monument in 2006. In terms of engineering, 'creating architecture that only lasts six months is the same as creating one that lasts 100 years,' said Takamatsu. So while the future of the brocade-covered pavilion is uncertain, Takamatsu hopes it will be relocated to a permanent location, such as the Imperial Palace in Tokyo. Looking around the Expo site, Takamatsu is heartened by the varying responses to the event's theme, 'Designing Future Society for Our Lives.' Whether the buildings live on or not, the ideas behind them will — which Takamatsu hopes will inspire a generation of architects, just as they did him in 1970. 'It's not just one design, but rather, various designs resonating with each other, creating a future that sounds like a symphony. I believe this is the greatest message of this pavilion, as well as the many other pavilions at the Expo.' Additional reporting by Yumi Asada and Hazel Pfeifer, CNN.
