"Italian chefs do not use machines": The unexpected charm of Kwon Seong-jun, who switches to English only when the odds are against him

A chef has stepped away from modern tools to showcase the true essence of Italian cuisine. Kwon Seong-jun appeared on episode 85 of JTBC's 'Please Take Care of My Refrigerator,' demonstrating both his unwavering commitment to authentic Italian methods and his signature witty banter. Aired on August 23, 2026, the episode highlighted how Kwon avoids using machinery to reflect the core philosophy of Italian chefs.

Kwon Seong-jun eschewed the use of machines during the cooking process, revealing the philosophy held by Italian chefs. Emphasizing traditional methods, he stated, "Italian chefs do not use machines." His intention was to showcase the intricate details of a dish crafted by hand rather than through mechanical assistance. His determination to capture the essence of cooking by handling ingredients manually, rather than relying on mechanical convenience, was clearly evident.

The 'English' Twist: Only When the Odds Are Against Him

Kwon Seong-jun's charm extends beyond his culinary skills. He employs a unique way of speaking, mixing in English whenever situations turn unfavorable or a peculiar atmosphere develops. The on-screen captions even noted, "Kwon Seong-jun, the 'Korean' who uses English only when things get suspiciously unfavorable(!)," making his choice of language a key highlight that brings laughter to viewers.

In particular, his ability to shift the mood using English, even amidst the high pressure of a cooking competition, has become a signature trait. The contrast between his serious attitude toward cooking and his humorous linguistic choices added a layer of entertainment. The twist of English slipping out not when things are going well, but rather when a subtle disadvantage arises, maximized the show's entertainment value.

The Thrill of the Culinary Duel with Sam Kim

This appearance centered on the harmony and competitive dynamic between Kwon and Sam Kim. While maintaining his own culinary philosophy, Kwon skillfully navigated the fast-paced flow characteristic of variety shows. Viewers observed a blend of his stubbornness in preserving authenticity and his flexibility as an entertainer.

His cooking method, rooted in a deep understanding of Italian cuisine, felt more like a performance than a simple demonstration. The process of handling ingredients by hand without machines clearly illustrated his culinary direction. His demeanor during the duel with Sam Kim proved both his pride as a chef and his wit as an entertainer.

Commitment to Authenticity and Entertaining Wit

Kwon Seong-jun showed firm resolve in refusing to use machines to preserve the authenticity of Italian cuisine. This goes beyond simply not using tools; it is interpreted as a philosophical choice by a chef to bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients. His method, which prioritizes the tactile sensations felt at his fingertips, left a deep impression on the audience.

At the same time, he maintained the entertainment value by building a unique persona of "using English only when disadvantaged." His humorous linguistic habits, contrasting with his serious cooking process, played a major role in sustaining the vibrant atmosphere of 'Please Take Care of My Refrigerator.' Kwon Seong-jun's combination of authentic culinary philosophy and playful wit was the main highlight of this broadcast.