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Actor Jung Sung-il’s Culinary Journey: Discovering Korea’s Hidden Food Gems & New Thriller Movie

Join us on a delectable journey as we follow acclaimed actor Jung Sung-il, best known for his captivating role in “The Glory,” on a special episode of a popular Korean show. Alongside comedian Jeon Hyun-moo and influencer Kwak Tube, Jung Sung-il embarks on a quest to uncover Korea’s most authentic and lesser-known culinary treasures. Beyond the plates, he also shares insights into his enduring acting career and gives a sneak peek into his upcoming psychological thriller.

First Culinary Stop: The Art of Handmade Dotori Mukbap

Our first destination is a true hidden gem, described as a “roadside house” in an unexpected location. This unassuming eatery has garnered immense popularity, not for its flashy facade but for its unwavering dedication to traditional methods. The menu centers around dishes made with dotori (acorn jelly), a staple of Korean cuisine known for its unique texture and health benefits.

A Taste of Tradition:

• Cold Dotori Mukbap: A refreshing dish featuring hand-made acorn jelly served in a special broth. Jung Sung-il, initially a bit nervous, truly lit up as he savored the unique flavor. The broth, a secret recipe, is prepared daily using 황태 등뼈 (Hwangtae deungppyeo – dried pollack backbones) simmered with various vegetables, creating a savory, slightly sweet, and incredibly complex base. He particularly highlighted its addictive balance, a perfect blend of sweet, sour, and a subtle nuttiness, distinguishing it from typical cold soups.
• Dotori Muchim: A vibrant salad made with acorn jelly, fresh vegetables like cucumber and onion, and a tangy dressing. Its texture perfectly complements the Mukbap.
• Dotori Haemul Pajeon: A crispy seafood pancake elevated with acorn flour, offering a delightful twist on a classic favorite.

What makes this place truly special is their commitment to quality: the acorn jelly is made fresh every morning, and despite its secluded location and short operating hours (closing at 3 PM), it consistently sells out. The enthusiasm of the guests, especially Jung Sung-il, for the delicate yet firm texture of the jelly and the exquisite broth, was a testament to its exceptional quality. While the exact address was kept a delightful mystery on the show, its reputation as a must-visit spot for authentic flavors is undeniable.

Second Culinary Stop: Authentic Seasonal Min-eo Tang & Grilled Bakdae

For the next stop, the trio sought a seasonal specialty: Min-eo (Croaker). They arrived at a highly acclaimed eatery, immediately noticeable for its significant scale and dedicated parking lot – a sign of a truly popular spot. The restaurant, packed mostly with an older demographic, exuded an aura of authentic, time-honored tradition.

Summer Delicacy:

• Min-eo Tang: This establishment specializes exclusively in Min-eo Tang, utilizing natural wild croaker. Contrary to assumptions, it’s served as a spicy, invigorating stew rather than a clear soup. The broth was praised for its profound depth, a clean yet potent flavor that offered both comfort and a burst of energy, perfect for the hot summer. The fish itself was plump and tender, with a satisfying chewiness in its roe and swim bladder (bulle), a prized part of the fish often compared to 90% of the croaker’s value.
• Grilled Bakdae (Flatfish): A remarkable highlight was the dried flatfish, 박대 (Bakdae), served as a complimentary side dish to each diner. Lightly grilled, its perfectly balanced seasoning and crispy yet moist texture left a lasting impression. Jung Sung-il, in particular, couldn’t stop raving about its flavor, noting that it could easily be a main dish on its own. The restaurant also sells these semi-dried Bakdae for home cooking, offering a piece of their culinary magic to take away.

The precise location wasn’t revealed on the show, but the consistently packed tables and the genuine appreciation from the elderly clientele spoke volumes of its local legend status and undeniable high rating. It’s a place where one can experience the true essence of traditional Korean seasonal cuisine.

Beyond the Plate: Jung Sung-il’s Journey & New Thriller

Amidst the feasting, Jung Sung-il candidly shared his remarkable journey in acting. With a career spanning two decades, he began in theater at the tender age of 21, dedicating himself to the stage. His path was one of perseverance, filled with numerous part-time jobs – from a cafe barista and valet parking attendant to a night bar worker and delivery driver – roles he continued even after the success of “The Glory” until he achieved financial stability.

Originally from Daegu (and later moving to Daejeon and Seoul in his high school years), he adapted his accent for acting, showcasing his commitment to his craft. Despite his immense appetite and love for food, he maintains an impressive physique through boxing and swimming, making his eating habits a source of friendly astonishment among his co-hosts. He even discussed his recent efforts to gain weight back after inadvertently losing it, turning to traditional nourishing foods like black goat hot pot.

The conversation inevitably turned to his exciting new project: a psychological thriller titled “A Killer’s Report” (살인자 리포트). Jung Sung-il takes on the chilling role of a serial killer in this suspenseful film, which promises to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. The movie is set to premiere on September 5th, and he passionately urged viewers to experience its thrilling narrative firsthand.

Conclusion

Jung Sung-il’s culinary adventure was a delightful blend of delicious food, heartfelt stories, and exciting movie news. His genuine love for food, combined with his humble yet inspiring journey, truly endeared him to both his co-hosts and the audience. Whether you’re a food enthusiast seeking authentic Korean flavors or a fan of thrilling cinema, make sure to mark your calendars for “A Killer’s Report” and keep an eye out for these incredible hidden culinary gems!