Ji Chang-wook’s love for food: What the Korean actor eats off-screen
Now, for someone whose screen roles often demand a sharp jawline, a fit physique, and plenty of action, Ji Chang-wook isn’t shy about his love for food. You might know him for high-octane roles in ‘Healer’ and ‘The K2’, but off-screen, he’s much more relatable: a guy who just wants a good meal without counting every noodle. In fact, he’s confessed more than once: dieting is strictly professional, not personal. Despite once playing a chef in the drama ‘Smile Donghae’, the actor may not be particularly good at cooking; his dependable speciality, however, is ramyun. For years, ramyun has been his go-to answer for home cooking: quick, satisfying, and something he’s fully confident whipping up. Even when fans hope for a chef-level creation, Ji keeps it real: instant noodles, sometimes with a little kimchi or fried rice on the side, and he’s happy.
When asked about what he can’t give up, Chang-wook is honest: delicious food. He’s mused about wanting to try every great dish in Korea (and beyond), knowing full well there’s never enough time. One year, he swore by sundaetguk (blood sausage soup) as his favorite; before that, it was pig’s trotters and just about anything he could enjoy with friends. For him, meals are about pleasure, not torture. Tteokbokki, in particular, is one dish Ji Chang-wook can’t resist. Even when faced with a trendy, viral dessert in Dubai, he admitted he’d rather spend his money on good street-style rice cakes. He doesn’t buy into hype unless the taste wins him over, and if it’s between chocolate, cookies, or jelly, he’ll take jelly every time. What’s really refreshing is how normal his attitude sounds. Ji Chang-wook’s relationship with food isn’t a celebrity blueprint; it’s closer to the rest of us: cook the quick stuff when you’re rushed, splurge on your favorite dish when you need a treat, diet only when absolutely necessary, and never miss out on something delicious if you can help it.