TV5, Viu Launch New Korean-Filipino Culinary Series Bringing Filipino Flavors to Seoul

A cross-cultural culinary journey is set to take center stage as South Korean actor Ji Chang Wook leads the upcoming food and travel series Kumusta, premiering May 24, 2026, on TV5 and the Viu app.

Bringing together the rich flavors of the Philippines and South Korea, Kumusta offers viewers a fresh take on culinary storytelling—set in the bustling district of Gangnam, where Filipino cuisine takes the spotlight in an immersive pop-up restaurant experience.

A Star-Studded Cultural Collaboration

The series was officially unveiled during a media conference at Sheraton Manila Hotel in Newport World Resorts. Joining Ji Chang Wook is a powerhouse Filipino cast, including Jodi Sta. Maria, Janella Salvador, Francine Diaz, and Arci Muñoz, alongside acclaimed chef-restaurateur JP Anglo.

The ensemble showcases a unique blend of talent as they step outside their usual roles to operate a fully functional Filipino restaurant in Seoul—serving not just food, but a cultural experience.

Filipino Flavors Take Seoul

At the heart of Kumusta is its celebration of Filipino cuisine. The cast prepares and serves beloved dishes such as Chicken Inasal, Kare-kare, Sisig, and Lechon—alongside favorites like palabok, sinigang, gising-gising, and halo-halo.

Under the guidance of Chef JP Anglo, the team works grueling shifts of up to 12 hours a day for an entire week, navigating the pressures of a real restaurant environment. Despite initial doubts about the project’s feasibility, the chef described the experience as “a full-circle moment,” expressing pride in how the team brought Filipino flavors to life for a new audience.

Beyond the Kitchen: Stories of Connection

More than just a cooking show, Kumusta highlights the human stories behind the food. Ji Chang-wook, who took on the role of a server, revealed that his decision stemmed from humility. “I’m not a good cook—I didn’t want to cause trouble,” he shared, instead supporting the team from the frontlines of customer service.

Off-camera, Chef JP Anglo praised the actor’s sincerity, noting that his genuine personality shines even without the spotlight.

The cast also opened up about the challenges of filming—from language barriers to the physical demands of restaurant work in cold weather. Yet, these obstacles only strengthened their bond. “Four different people became a family,” Jodi Sta. Maria shared, emphasizing the camaraderie that defined the experience.

For Janella Salvador and Francine Diaz, working in the kitchen brought newfound respect for the restaurant industry, while Arci Muñoz described the project as both exciting and surreal, especially working alongside a Korean star she admired.

Bridging Cultures Through Food

The show also features guest appearances from Korean stars Kim Min-seok, Kim Myung-soo, and Seo In-guk, further strengthening its cross-cultural appeal.

Produced by E&S Partners, a subsidiary of Echolive Korea—the group behind the Waterbomb Manila 2025—and filmed by PODO Creative, Kumusta represents a significant collaboration between Korean and Filipino entertainment industries.

According to CEO Jack Hyunsoo Noh, the show aims to naturally connect two cultures through shared experiences. “At the center of it all is Filipino cuisine,” he said, highlighting the goal of introducing it to a wider global audience.

A Show Built on Heart and Heritage

Despite the demanding conditions, the cast and crew poured their passion into the project. From learning basic Korean phrases to engaging with mostly Korean diners, the experience became more than just a show—it became a story of resilience, teamwork, and cultural pride.

Ji Chang Wook himself noted the similarities between Koreans and Filipinos, particularly their strong sense of connection and warmth. “It was hard at first, but the experience helped us grow closer,” he said.

Don’t miss this heartwarming and flavorful journey. Kumusta premieres May 24, 2026, at 6:45 PM on TV5’s Weekend Trip block and will also be available for streaming on Viu.

As Ji Chang Wook warmly invites audiences, this is not just a restaurant—it’s “the funniest, most heartfelt place,” where food, dreams, and human connection come together.