The South Korean film industry was recently set ablaze with speculation following reports that embattled actor Yoo Ah In would be making his highly anticipated return to the big screen.
The rumors suggested that he had been cast in the upcoming project of acclaimed director Jang Jae Hyun, the visionary behind the massive 2024 hit Exhuma .
However, in a series of swift and direct clarifications on December 17, 2025, both the director and the actor’s agency have moved to dismiss these claims as unfounded, providing a clearer picture of the project’s current status and Yoo Ah In’s professional future.
Clarifying the Casting Rumors
The speculation began after an initial report by Sports Chosun claimed that Yoo Ah In was set to lead director Jang Jae Hyun’s new film, tentatively titled Vampire.
The report suggested that filming was scheduled to begin in the latter half of 2026.
Given the director’s track record with occult and supernatural thrillers like The Priests and Svaha: The Sixth Finger, the news of a vampire-themed expansion to his cinematic universe—potentially starring a powerhouse like Yoo Ah In—garnered immediate and intense public interest.
However, Director Jang Jae Hyun personally addressed the media to set the record straight. While he confirmed that he is indeed developing a new project with the working title Vampire, he explicitly stated that the casting rumors are “completely untrue.”
He explained that while he recently contacted Yoo Ah In to check in on his well-being and briefly touched upon future schedules, this casual conversation was misinterpreted and exaggerated by third parties.
The director emphasized that he has never made an official casting offer to the actor for this particular film.
The Current State of “Vampire”
Director Jang further clarified that the project is in its most nascent stages of development. As of now, the script for Vampire has not even reached a first-draft stage; currently, only a general synopsis exists.
Furthermore, a production company has not yet been finalized, and discussions are ongoing.
Because the creative process is still so early, the director noted that many aspects of the film—including the cast, story, and timeline—could change.
Jang Jae Hyun indicated that he is looking at a production schedule that might not even commence until 2027, making any talk of current casting premature.
Yoo Ah In’s Hiatus and Legal Context
The casting rumors were particularly sensitive given Yoo Ah In’s current standing in the industry.
The actor has been on an indefinite hiatus since 2022 following a high-profile legal battle involving the violation of the Narcotics Control Act.
His legal proceedings concluded with a finalized sentence of one year in prison, suspended for two years.
According to Director Jang, during their recent talk, Yoo Ah In expressed a desire to continue his period of reflection and intends to spend at least another year quietly without any scheduled professional activities.
This sentiment was echoed by Yoo Ah In’s agency, UAA, which briefly stated that “nothing has been decided” regarding his next project.
For now, it appears the actor is focusing on his personal life and recovery rather than an immediate return to acting.
Fans of the director’s occult universe will have to wait longer for concrete news on who will eventually lead his next supernatural venture.
Netflix’s global culinary phenomenon, Culinary Class Wars, has officially returned for its second season, promising to build on the massive success of its debut.
After Season 1 made history as the first Korean variety show to top the Global Top 10 for three consecutive weeks, the stakes have never been higher.
The production team, led by producers Kim Hak Min and Kim Eun Ji, held a showcase at the JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square Seoul to reveal what they call a “more complete program” that balances the beloved elements of the first season with fresh, high-octane innovations.
The Clash of Culinary Titans
The core format remains a high-stakes survival battle featuring 100 chefs divided into two camps: the “Black Spoons” (underground masters and rising stars) and the “White Spoons” (established celebrity chefs).
The Season 2 “White Spoon” roster is particularly formidable, featuring Michelin one-star chef Son Jong Won, Japanese cuisine expert Jung Ho Young, and the legendary Hu Deok Juk, a master of Chinese cuisine with 57 years of experience.
They are joined by Venerable Sunjae, a renowned master of Korean temple cuisine, emphasizing the diverse culinary heritage represented in the competition.
Challenging these icons is a new wave of “Black Spoon” contenders with evocative nicknames like “French Papa,” “Chef Witch with a Wok,” and “Chef Little Tiger.”
These chefs enter the competition with a “nothing to lose” attitude, aiming to break the glass ceiling of the culinary hierarchy.
The dynamic between the established elite and the hungry challengers remains the heartbeat of the show, but Season 2 introduces significant “devices” to keep both the chefs and the audience on their toes.
Game-Changing Twists and Strategic Fun
To avoid “change for change’s sake,” the producers have introduced refined rules that prioritize strategic depth.
One of the most talked-about additions is the return of Season 1 fan-favorites Choi Kang Rok and Kim Do Yoon, who appear as “Hidden White Spoons.”
Their involvement in the first-round qualifying battles adds an immediate layer of intrigue and nostalgia for returning viewers.
The second-round “Black-and-White Showdown” also features a major visual and practical upgrade.
Instead of randomly assigned ingredients, the set now features a massive map of South Korea on the floor.
Regional specialties emerge from their respective locations on the map, forcing chefs to adapt to local ingredients and highlighting the rich diversity of Korean produce.
This move is part of the show’s broader mission to promote K-cuisine and regional agriculture to a global audience.
Judges and Contemporary Controversy
Returning to the judging panel are the iconic duo of Baek Jong Won and Ahn Sung Jae. However, Baek’s appearance comes amid real-world headlines.
Due to ongoing controversies surrounding his company, The Born Korea, Baek announced in May 2025 that he would suspend his broadcasting career after completing Culinary Class Wars 2 to focus on his business.
Despite the backlash, the production team decided to retain his footage, citing the hard work of the 100 chefs and 400 staff members involved.
Producer Kim Hak Min emphasized that they are “carefully listening” to viewer feedback and will let the audience make the final judgment on the program’s integrity.
Impact on the Food Industry
Season 1 was credited with revitalizing the sluggish South Korean food service industry, leading to a surge in reservations for featured restaurants.
The chefs of Season 2 hope for a similar “ripple effect.” For participants like “French Papa,” the show was a reminder of their love for the craft, a sentiment they hope translates to viewers through the “power that food holds.”
Episodes 1 through 3 of Culinary Class Wars 2 were released on December 16, 2025, on Netflix.
With new episodes airing every Tuesday, the series is set to dominate social media conversations once again, offering what the producers describe as “dopamine-boosting moments” in every single episode.
Whether you are a fan of high-level technique or the raw drama of survival, Season 2 is designed to be a feast for the senses.
