Rakuten Viki, the global streaming platform for Asian entertainment, has launched “Kumusta,” a new Korean-Filipino reality series that brings together celebrities from both countries to showcase Filipino food, hospitality, and culture to audiences in South Korea.
Blending culinary experiences with cultural exchange, the series offers viewers a unique look at the growing connection between the Philippines and South Korea through the universal language of food.
Ji Chang-wook Takes on a New Role
Headlining the show is South Korean actor Ji Chang-wook, beloved by Filipino fans for his performances in hit dramas such as The K2 and Healer. In Kumusta, the actor steps away from his action-packed screen persona to serve as the restaurant’s head server.
The reality series reveals a more relaxed and playful side of Ji Chang-wook as he navigates cultural differences, interacts with Filipino cast members, and welcomes guests while helping introduce Filipino cuisine to Korean diners.
Kumusta also marks the actor’s first variety program appearance since starring in the 2025 revenge thriller The Manipulated.
Star-Studded Filipino Cast
Joining Ji Chang-wook is a roster of prominent Filipino celebrities taking on various restaurant roles.
Jodi Sta. Maria serves as the hall manager, while Janella Salvador takes on the role of sous chef. Francine Diaz joins the team as head server, and Arci Muñoz works across both kitchen and front-of-house operations.
Together, the cast faces the challenges of running a bustling restaurant while introducing Korean customers to the flavors, traditions, and warmth of Filipino hospitality.
Filipino Cuisine Takes Center Stage
At the heart of Kumusta is acclaimed Michelin-starred Filipino chef JP Anglo, who curated a menu designed to highlight iconic Filipino dishes while appealing to Korean tastes.
Featured specialties include:
- Inasal
- Kare-kare
- Bagoong
- Lechon
- Pork sisig
- Gising-gising
In a nod to Korean dining culture, the meals are accompanied by Filipino-inspired versions of banchan (side dishes), including dilis, atsara, and tokwa’t baboy. Guests can also enjoy refreshing calamansi juice as part of the dining experience.
Special Guest Appearances
The series also features a rotating lineup of Korean celebrity guest servers, including actors:
- Seo In-guk
- Kim Myung-soo
- Kim Min-seok
Their appearances add another layer of excitement while further strengthening the cultural exchange at the center of the show.
More Than a Food Show
Beyond its culinary focus, Kumusta serves as a cultural bridge between the Philippines and South Korea.
As Korean entertainment continues to enjoy immense popularity among Filipino audiences, the series provides a rare opportunity for Korean viewers to discover Filipino cuisine, traditions, and talent. Through shared meals, personal interactions, and authentic storytelling, Kumusta highlights how food and hospitality can foster deeper understanding between cultures.
The show also offers Filipino artists a platform to showcase their personalities and culture to a broader international audience.
Where to Watch
Kumusta is available free through Rakuten Viki’s ad-supported video-on-demand (AVOD) service across Southeast Asia, including the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Singapore.
Fans looking for more of Ji Chang-wook can also stream his popular dramas Melting Me Softly and Suspicious Partner on Viki.
For more information, visit Rakuten Viki.
