Latest news with #AhnSung-jae
Time of India
17-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Did BTS' V have a dinner date with IU? Viral picture raises speculation among fans
— nananajinnah (@nananajinnah) Whispers of a budding connection between BTS icon V and beloved K-pop singer IU are swirling across fan communities, setting the internet ablaze with theories and hopeful curiosity. The speculation took flight after snapshots emerged of V sharing an intimate meal with a mystery woman at a luxurious restaurant in her face remained obscured, keen-eyed admirers were quick to suggest that the woman in question was none other than IU, citing similarities in attire and physique as fuel to the flames, IU celebrated her 32nd birthday on May 16. Just two days before, on May 14, she had been seen during a live broadcast wearing a distinctive top—eerily similar to the one worn by the woman accompanying V at V currently fulfilling his mandatory military service, devoted fans believe he may have been granted leave to spend time with IU on her special day. This possibility has only heightened suspicions that the two may have shared a private birthday celebration, away from the public to a report by The Korea Times, the dinner date took place at Mosu, an upscale fine-dining establishment renowned for its exquisite menu and sophisticated ambiance. Helmed by acclaimed chef Ahn Sung-jae—known for his role as a judge on the Netflix cooking competition Culinary Class Wars—Mosu offers an exclusive 420,000 won (approximately $310 USD) tasting menu. The luxurious setting added another layer of intrigue to an already tantalizing were quick to raise eyebrows, especially given IU's ongoing relationship with actor Lee Jong Suk, who was noticeably absent from the evening. However, much of the doubt was dispelled when it was clarified that V and the woman were joined by 2AM's Seulong and another female companion, indicating the dinner may have been more friendly than foundation of the IU-V connection traces back to earlier this year, when V starred alongside IU in her emotionally charged music video 'Love Wins All'. Set against a dystopian backdrop, the video followed a couple's journey through despair and hope, with both artists delivering powerful performances that captivated millions. The chemistry they exhibited onscreen sparked widespread admiration and led many to wonder if their connection extended beyond the bond didn't stop there. V was later spotted attending IU's encore concert in September 2023, reinforcing notions of a close friendship. Since then, the two have occasionally crossed paths in subtle ways, each appearance stirring new conversations among IU is gearing up for her much-anticipated album Flower Bookmark 3, the next installment in her sentimental cover series. Set to release on May 27, the album will also feature a guest appearance by ASTRO's Cha Eun-woo in the accompanying music the truth behind the dinner date remains a mystery, one thing is certain: the dynamic between IU and V continues to captivate fans around the globe.
Korea Herald
22-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
Korean barbecue restaurants loved by stars
In recent years, Korean barbecue has become a global phenomenon, with its sizzling sounds and smoky flavors captivating food lovers around the world. However, there are a few exceptional spots in Seoul that have attracted attention from local foodies as well as Korean celebrities. From Nariuijip in Hannam-dong to Namsan Makchang, these restaurants are proving that good food and a little bit of star power are the perfect ingredients for success. Nariuijip Located in the heart of Hannam-dong, Nariuijip has earned its place as one of the most beloved barbecue joints in Seoul. Featured on popular TV shows such as 'The Must Try Restaurants 2,' 'Korean Pork Belly Rhapsody' and 'You Quiz on the Block,' this humble eatery is known for its unassuming atmosphere and frozen samgyeopsal (pork belly). The restaurant has become a symbol of consistency, receiving six prestigious Blue Ribbons based on surveys by the eponymous local restaurant guide for six consecutive years starting in 2020. What sets Nariuijip apart is its grilling method. Instead of the traditional charcoal, the frozen pork belly is grilled on a metal plate lined with aluminum foil, ensuring that the thinly sliced frozen samgyeopsal cooks quickly and evenly, without burning. Priced at 16,000 won ($10.97) for 150 grams, the dish draws long lines, particularly on weekends. However, the real star of the menu isn't the pork belly, but the cheonggukjang (fermented soybean stew), a dish that the servers proudly recommend. Made with what tastes like homemade doengjang, or fermented soybean paste, the stew exudes a rich, savory depth. The complimentary sides, including cucumber kimchi, further enhance the dining experience, showcasing the owner's attention to detail and commitment to quality. Namsan Makchang In the serene neighborhood of Bogwang-dong, Namsan Makchang has garnered fame thanks to an endorsement from the popular singer Kang Min-kyung of the K-pop female duo Davichi. This small, six-table restaurant specializes in garomaksal, a rare cut from the pig's diaphragm muscle. Tender and rich in flavor, the dish is offered at 19,000 won for 130 grams. Known for its chewy texture and unique flavor, garomaksal is a delicacy in Korean cuisine. Namsan Makchang brings it to perfection, serving up a taste that is both smoky and satisfying. In addition to meat, the restaurant also offers deulgireum gul sotbap (perilla oil oyster pot rice), an innovative dish that combines savory flavors and delicate textures. The doenjangjjigae (soybean paste stew) with seasonal naengi (shepherd's purse) adds a fresh and fragrant touch. The restaurant's offerings have made it a favorite among both locals and visitors, and with queues that stretch up to three hours, it's clear that this hidden gem is worth the wait. Hongbyeolgamne Located in Junggok-dong, Hongbyeolgamne has earned a reputation as a favorite spot of chefs -- including renowned chef Ahn Sung-jae who featured it on his YouTube channel -- quickly bringing the restaurant fame and attracting foodies. The main dish at Hongbyeolgamne is the fresh cut samgyeopsal, served at 15,000 won for 180 grams. This simple yet flavorful dish is paired with six different banchan (side dishes) that change regularly, offering a new experience each time you visit. The restaurant's focus on quality extends beyond the pork belly. Chef Ahn praised the restaurant's kimchi and side dishes, which are made with meticulous care. In fact, many chefs who work late into the night come here to unwind with a dish of duruchigi (stir-fried spicy pork) and doenjangjjigae. For those looking to enjoy a true taste of Korean barbecue, these star-endorsed spots are a must-try. But be prepared — dining at these popular restaurants requires patience, as the long waits are a testament to their mouthwatering offerings. yoohong@
Korea Herald
06-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
Chef Ahn Sung-jae's Michelin 3-star Mosu Seoul hints at reopening this month
Reservation slots for Mosu appear on restaurant reservation platform Catch Table Star chef Ahn Sung-jae's Mosu Seoul appears to be reopening later this month in Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, after a yearlong break. The reservation calendar for the contemporary fine dining restaurant appeared on restaurant reservation platform Catch Table on Wednesday afternoon. Although reservations have not opened, observers believe the Michelin-starred restaurant will likely open March 22, as the platform's page for Mosu Seoul showed possible booking dates starting that day. It remains unclear when reservations will open. A Catch Table official said more information would be "available soon," refusing to comment further. According to the app, the restaurant will only offer dinner, with a tasting course priced at 420,000 won ($289.36) per person. The corkage fee is set at 200,000 won and limited to one bottle of wine. In a recently uploaded video on Ahn's YouTube channel, the chef briefly showed the construction site of the new Mosu location on Namsan, near the Grand Hyatt Seoul. "I chose a location that is not in a busy or crowded area with a lot of foot traffic," Ahn said in the video. Also, in an interview with Esquire Korea in October last year, Ahn said Mass Studies, an architecture studio led by award-winning architect Cho Min-suk, is handling the restaurant's design and construction. Ahn opened the first iteration of Mosu in San Fransisco in summer 2015 and was given a one Michelin star in its first year. Michelin awards three stars to restaurants that offer "exceptional cuisine worth a special journey." Two-star restaurants serve "excellent cuisine worth a detour," while one-star restaurants serve "high-quality cooking worth a stop." Just two years on, Ahn's Mosu relocated to Seoul, opening in Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu with investment from Korean food giant CJ CheilJedang. The restaurant was awarded a one star in 2019, two stars in 2020 and became South Korea's only Michelin three-star restaurant in 2023 and 2024. Mosu Seoul, however, temporarily closed down in February last year after Ahn decided to end the partnership with CJ CheilJedang. Ahn said the decision was made due to differences in business goals.
