"'The Antarctic Chef' sees Paik Jong-won begin physical training, and the treadmill inside his home also caught attention"
The 7th episode of MBC's new variety show 'The Antarctic Chef' finally lifted the veil. A project to offer one warm meal to wintering crew members who endure a year in the harsh Antarctic environment has officially begun.
First, the members arrived at an intermediate stopover airport en route to Antarctica after a long-haul flight totaling more than 31 hours. While waiting for the plane to Antarctica, they moved to their lodging amid tension, inspected the kitchen and began full preparations.
At that time, the production team revealed a message that had arrived for Paik Jong-won. It was a cute cheering message from his daughter saying, "Dad, be careful in Antarctica and come back safely." Before departure, footage showed Paik Jong-won exercising on a treadmill at home, and his diligent physical training in 'full mode' brought smiles to viewers.
But soon the members received news that startled them. Due to black ice on the runway, the plane's landing became difficult and entry to Antarctica became impossible. The members expressed despair and dejection, saying, "I thought it was a hidden camera," and "my head is in a mess." Paik Jong-won also lowered his head, saying, "Entering Antarctica is not easy. This is why everyone struggles."
Ultimately, facing the unprecedented situation of failing to enter Antarctica two days in a row, the members had no choice but to stay at the lodging and refocus on practicing cooking and physical training.
Meanwhile, with the broadcast airing, Paik Jong-won's 'home exercise scene' became a hot topic again. The T House in Seocho District where Paik Jong-won and So Yu-jin reside is a high-end residence known for tight security and an underground air-raid shelter. Recently its actual transaction price was reported to be about 2.6 billion won and it is called a 'landmark of the wealthy neighborhood.' When footage showed Paik Jong-won silently exercising on a treadmill there, various reactions followed, including "as expected, meticulous Antarctic preparation" and "both the house and fitness are on another level."
Even amid consecutive 'entry impossible' obstacles, anticipation is rising over how Paik Jong-won and the members' sincere challenge for the Antarctic wintering crew will unfold going forward.<
[Photo] OSEN DB, broadcast screen
[OSEN]