KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 22 – Food and fantasy take centre stage in Bon Appetit, Your Majesty, a new South Korean drama that blends romance, survival, and royal intrigue — with mukbang-inspired feasts as a visual highlight.
At a virtual press conference on Aug 20, lead stars Yoona of Girls’ Generation and rising actor Lee Chae-min shared insights on their roles. The series follows Ji-young (Yoona), a three-star Michelin chef who travels back in time and is compelled to cook for tyrant king Yi Heon (Lee). Through her food, Yi Heon experiences comfort and affection for the first time since his mother’s death, setting the stage for both transformation and romance.
Lee Chae-min’s Royal Debut
Although Bon Appetit, Your Majesty marks Lee’s first period drama, the 24-year-old admitted he was initially overwhelmed, especially working opposite Yoona, 11 years his senior.
“I was nervous and sweaty — it was a surreal fanboy moment because I’ve admired her for so long,” he recalled.
To portray a king with an impeccable palate, Lee studied mukbang creators, mimicking their exaggerated reactions while practising in front of a mirror. Despite his on-screen gourmet persona, Lee confessed he is not much of a cook, though he does pride himself on preparing meats such as roast beef and barbecue.
Yoona’s Culinary Training
For Yoona, the role demanded not only acting but also culinary precision. The 35-year-old idol revealed she underwent three months of training before filming, learning historical utensils, plating, and traditional recipes.
“In every episode, new dishes appear, so I had constant guidance from a tutor and chef. Since my character is a French chef reinterpreting traditional royal cuisine, the plating was designed to look modern, like something out of a Michelin three-star restaurant,” she explained.
Yoona added that the king’s initial scepticism about her dishes was realistic for the era: “He would sniff at the food and poke at it with his spoon, while tasters ensured it was safe to eat.”
A King on the Move
Lee also highlighted how his character subverted his expectations of royalty. “I thought he would stay in the palace, but Yi Heon was always active — running, fighting, and following Ji-young. At times I wondered, ‘Am I truly a king?’”
Casting Challenges and Praise
The role of Yi Heon was originally given to actor Park Sung-hoon, who withdrew following a personal controversy. Lee stepped in at short notice, acknowledging the pressure of late casting.
“The burden and responsibility were heavy, but I gave it my all,” he said.
Director Jang Tae-yoo praised Lee’s commitment: “He wasn’t our first choice, but I am more than satisfied. His preparation translated into performance, and I am very pleased.”
Bon Appetit, Your Majesty also marks Yoona’s return to romantic comedy after a two-year hiatus since King the Land (2023).
Bon Appetit, Your Majesty, also starring Kang Han-na and Choi Gwi-ha, will premiere on Aug 23 on Netflix.
