Renowned restaurateur Baek Jong-won is set to host a new survival show titled Les Misérables, which aims to provide a life-changing opportunity for participants. The program, set to premiere on ENA on November 30 at 8:30 p.m. KST, brings together challengers vying for a second chance at success under Baek’s mentorship.

Les Misérables features a mix of familiar faces from Netflix’s Black & White Chef: Culinary Class War, including chef Im Tae-hoon, Yoon Nam-no, and David Lee, who reunite with Baek. They are joined by Japanese cuisine specialist Kim Min-seong, all determined to showcase their culinary prowess and resilience. The competition among these 20 participants, each wearing numbered attire, is highlighted in the show’s promotional poster, where Baek is seen supporting them with a protective arm—a powerful symbol of the stakes and intensity of the contest.

The show stems from Baek’s desire to help those who have faced failure and seek a fresh start. “I wanted to be that someone who offers a helping hand to people wondering if they’ll ever get another shot,” Baek shared, emphasizing the show’s message of resilience. The production team noted that Les Misérables is a blend of strong character-driven narratives, redemptive arcs, and elements of a human documentary, promising both emotional depth and inspiring stories.

In addition to the culinary challenges, each contestant will bring a unique backstory and motivation, adding layers to the competition and emphasizing the real-life struggles and aspirations that drive their journey. The program combines the thrill of a survival competition with touching personal stories, reflecting Baek’s commitment to fostering genuine change and growth among participants.

Fans of Baek Jong-won can expect a program that goes beyond typical cooking shows, delving into the heart of ambition, perseverance, and the reality of second chances. With appearances on radio, variety shows, and YouTube platforms planned for promotion, the show is poised to reach a wide audience.

As Baek embarks on this new venture, Les Misérables promises viewers a unique blend of suspense and heartfelt human experiences, as it challenges contestants to overcome past setbacks and transform their lives through grit and culinary talent.

Sayart / Sharon Jung, guhuijeong784@gmail.com