Chef Son Jong-won, who has gained popularity through appearances on various variety shows, including Netflix's "Culinary Class Wars 2," has been promoted to an executive at Shinsegae Group.
Shinsegae Group said Friday that Son, head chef of Eatanic Garden at Josun Palace, a hotel operated by Josun Hotels & Resorts, was promoted to professional executive as part of its regular executive reshuffle for 2027.
Son joined Shinsegae Group in 2018 as head chef of L'Amant Secret, a restaurant at L'Escape Hotel launched by Josun Hotels & Resorts that year.
Before that, he gained experience at Michelin three star restaurants COI and Quince in the United States. In 2022, he also took charge of Eatanic Garden, a Korean fine dining restaurant at Josun Palace in southern Seoul, establishing himself as a leading figure in Shinsegae's fine dining business.
Son is known as a "double one star" chef after L'Amant Secret and Eatanic Garden each received one Michelin star in 2021 and 2023, respectively. His polished appearance also earned him the nickname "a man with good vibes" during his appearance on "Culinary Class Wars 2."
Shinsegae Group appoints specialized executives who have been recognized for their expertise and performance in specific fields, rather than those in general management positions. This year, as Shinsegae Group selected a record-high number of 36 new executives, Chef Son was the only specialized executive among them.
It is assessed that Chef Son’s promotion resulted from his achievements in maintaining Michelin stars for two restaurants and enhancing brand awareness through broadcasting activities.
With this promotion, Son will take on the role of leading Shinsegae Group’s gourmet competitiveness, going beyond being the executive chef of Michelin-starred restaurants.
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