MONSTA X member Kihyun has wrapped up his activity on 'Study Abroad: The Ryu Project.'
Kihyun completed the journey of 'Study Abroad: The Ryu Project,' which first aired on May 17, on the 21st. 'Study Abroad: The Ryu Project' is a variety show that experiences various dishes from overseas and completes a 'study abroad recipe' with 'his own kick.' Kihyun demonstrated his passion for cooking and successfully made his debut on a fixed variety show after his military service, proving his versatility.
Through each broadcast, Kihyun showcased his charm by alternating between being a 'handsome cook' and 'the adorable youngest.' He revealed a scholarly eagerness for cuisine from different countries, explored local foods, and diligently took notes on recipes learned from various master chefs, putting his heart into creating the perfect 'study abroad recipe.' Meanwhile, with his meticulous preparation and outstanding sociability, he became a reliable yet cute youngest member to Ryoo Soo-young and Yoon Kyung-ho, bringing energy to the show.
Kihyun's rich expressions and descriptions of flavors added to the enjoyment of the broadcast. After tasting local dishes, he made familiar flavor comparisons, such as, "It tastes like stir-fried pork wrapped in bread with cream added" and "It would taste good if eaten like Jeonju bibimbap triangles wrapped in seaweed," evoking empathy in the field and helping viewers understand as if they were tasting the food together, enhancing the charm of cooking shows.
Through this broadcast, Kihyun also earned the title of 'Dessert Prince.' Each time he visited a different country, he sought out various desserts, tasting and researching them. As the broadcasts continued, Kihyun showcased incredible culinary sense and demonstrated skills in substituting hard-to-find local ingredients, enriching the 'study abroad cuisine' with limitless dessert recipes such as bread, rice cakes, and cakes.
Amidst this activity, in the final episode aired on the 21st, Kihyun checked his response to the question 'To my future self after finishing my study abroad' that he wrote before leaving for study abroad. He noted that, unlike what he had previously written, "Are you perhaps just washing dishes and not cooking? I support you," he achieved remarkable growth, evaluating the results by saying, "I turned it around; it's a complete success," and encouraged himself by saying, "You worked hard. You've improved a lot," before concluding 'Study Abroad: The Ryu Project.'
Through his agency Starship Entertainment, Kihyun said, "I can't believe 'Study Abroad: The Ryu Project' is already over, and I feel a little sad. At that time, I was worried about my first official fixed schedule after military service being an overseas shoot, but Brother Ryoo Soo-young and Brother Yoon Kyung-ho took great care of me, allowing me to enjoy cooking. Through that process, I discovered a deeper affection for cooking, and I felt proud to introduce various recipes through the pop-up store to many people, including Monbebe (the official fan club). I want to express my deepest gratitude to the two brothers who shared this wonderful cooking study abroad with me and the production team. Thanks to them, I built unforgettable memories. I will continue to show good appearances as MONSTA X and Kihyun in the future."
Meanwhile, MONSTA X, to which Kihyun belongs, successfully completed the '2025 MONSTA X Connect X' concert held at the Seoul KSPO DOME (formerly the gymnastics stadium) from the 18th to the 20th. They are expected to release a new album on September 1 and engage in active promotions.
[Photo] Captured from E Channel's 'Study Abroad: The Ryu Project' broadcast
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