The Korean entertainment scene is buzzing with the impending return of the much-loved cooking show “Please Take Care of My Refrigerator” on JTBC. After five years off the air, this iconic program, which charmed audiences by peeking into celebrities’ refrigerators and challenging chefs to create dishes in just 15 minutes, is making a comeback. While there’s excitement about its return, some wonder if it might merely echo the recent hit, “Black & White Chef.”
Originally airing from November 2014 to November 2019, “Please Take Care of My Refrigerator” was a trailblazer in the culinary show genre, birthing star chefs like Lee YeonBok and Choi HyunSeok. The show’s appeal lay in its raw charm—viewers enjoyed seeing the everyday contents of celebrity fridges and watching chefs work their magic with common ingredients. The hosts’ witty banter added an extra layer of entertainment.
However, as the show progressed, its down-to-earth charm waned. The introduction of luxury ingredients like truffles and caviar created a disconnect with viewers, detracting from the relatable “I could do that” allure. The market soon flooded with similar concept shows, diluting the original’s unique appeal and leading to its eventual end.
The success of “Black & White Chef” has set the stage for the revival of “Please Take Care of My Refrigerator,” slated to air next month. Notably, “Black & White Chef” is produced by Studio Slam, a subsidiary of SLL under the JoongAng Group, which is also the parent company of JTBC. This connection explains the overlapping vibes between the two shows.
Joining the new season are chefs Choi KangRok and Edward Lee, both of whom gained recognition through “Black & White Chef.” While their inclusion could inject fresh energy into the show, there are concerns about the novelty wearing off quickly, potentially leading to repetitive themes.
Director Lee ChangWoo, helming the new season, has emphasized efforts to preserve the show’s originality while introducing new elements. He acknowledges the challenges and is exploring various strategies to keep the show engaging. For “Please Take Care of My Refrigerator” to enjoy a successful and extended second run, learning from past experiences and preparing thoroughly will be crucial. As fans eagerly await its return, the show must balance nostalgia with innovation to capture hearts once again.
