Just three days after Michelin-starred chef Son Jong-won’s heartbreaking elimination from Culinary Class Wars 2, Esquire Korea dropped their January 2026 digital cover featuring the beloved contestant on January 6, 2026. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect—or more painful—for devastated fans who’d just watched their favorite chef exit Netflix’s hit cooking competition.
Jong-won’s Cover Feature Details
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Magazine | Esquire Korea Digital Cover |
| Release Date | January 6, 2026 |
| Featured Chef | Son Jong-won |
| Brand Partnership | Blancpain (Swiss Luxury Watch Brand) |
| Collection Showcased | Villeret Moonphase, Bathyscaphe |
| Ambassador Since | 2022 |
| Theme Focus | Time, craftsmanship, balance |
The Elimination That Broke Hearts
Episode 11 of Culinary Class Wars 2 revealed that Culinary Monster advanced to the Top 7 semifinals after defeating Son Jong-won in their one-on-one life-or-death match. The judges split their votes—Baek Jong-won chose Son Jong-won while Ahn Sung-jae selected Culinary Monster—requiring extended deliberation before reaching the final decision.
Son Jong-won had built a massive fanbase during the show, with many viewers expressing disappointment over his departure and questioning the outcome’s fairness. Fans particularly highlighted how he carried team challenges and even protected Culinary Monster from earlier elimination, making his loss feel especially undeserved.
Fans React to “Savage” Magazine Timing
Social media exploded when Esquire Korea’s digital cover dropped the same day as the elimination episode aired. One viral tweet captured the collective sentiment: “son jongwon new magazine photoshoot for the digital cover of esquire korea… this getting uploaded on the same day as everyone is crashing out over his elimination is so foul.”
The feature was released in collaboration with Blancpain, the luxury Swiss watch brand for which Son Jong-won has served as ambassador since 2022. The pictorial emphasized themes of time, craftsmanship, and balance—ironically appropriate given the “timing” of his elimination and fans’ emotional responses.
Son Jong-won’s Culinary Credentials
The cover feature highlighted Son Jong-won’s impressive career operating two Michelin one-star restaurants simultaneously. L’Amant Secret delivers refined French cuisine at L’Escape Hotel, while Eatanic Garden reshapes Korean ingredients through innovative modern techniques at Josun Palace.
Before establishing his Korean presence, Son gained experience at acclaimed San Francisco restaurants including Quince and Coi, eventually working at the three-Michelin-starred Benu. In 2024, La Liste named him New Talent of the Year, and Eatanic Garden entered Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants at number 25—the highest new entry that year.
The Controversy Around His Exit
Many viewers questioned whether the elimination was fair, with some threatening to stop watching remaining episodes following his departure. Fans particularly struggled with the fact that he’d consistently demonstrated superior teamwork, leadership, and technical skills throughout the competition.
The semi-final lineup now includes Choi Kang-rok, Venerable Sun-jae, Jung Ho-young, Hu Deok-juk, Im Seong-keun, Brewmaster Yun, and Culinary Monster. Choi Kang-rok has already secured a finals spot after winning the Infinite Cooking Heaven challenge with his Mushizushi, which scored an impressive 185 out of 200 points.
Why The Timing Felt Intentional
While likely coincidental, the Esquire Korea cover’s release felt almost too perfectly timed to console heartbroken fans. As one commenter noted, the magazine “really knows Son Jong-won’s fans are crashing out” and provided exactly what they needed—stunning visuals of their favorite chef looking powerful and successful despite the competition setback.
The feature serves as a reminder that Son Jong-won’s culinary journey extends far beyond one reality competition. His Michelin stars, international acclaim, and luxury brand partnerships prove his talent transcends any single show’s outcome, offering comfort to disappointed supporters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Son Jong-won on Culinary Class Wars 2?
He was eliminated in Episode 11 during a one-on-one semifinal match against Culinary Monster, with judges split on the decision before ultimately choosing his opponent to advance.
Where can I see the Esquire Korea feature with Son Jong-won?
The January 2026 digital cover featuring Son Jong-won as Blancpain ambassador is available on Esquire Korea’s official website and social media platforms.
