Kang Ho-dong Recreates Legendary Bibimbap Scene 18 Years Later for New Coupang Play Talk Show

Television legend Kang Ho-dong has sent Korean internet users on a wave of nostalgia by recreating his iconic bomdong bibimbap eating scene from 18 years ago, just ahead of his brand-new Coupang Play talk show premiering this week.

A teaser clip released for Kang Ho-dong's Bookstore, set to debut on March 6 on the Coupang Play streaming platform, captures Kang diving enthusiastically into a large bowl of bomdong (spring greens) bibimbap. In the preview, Kang announces with his trademark booming voice, "The bomdong bibimbap is here!" before meticulously mixing rice with fresh spring greens and generous drizzles of sesame oil in an oversized basin.

A Legendary Moment Revisited

After taking his first hearty bite, Kang exclaims, "Mom, the cabbage is really tastier than meat!" — a direct callback to the moment that made him a mukbang legend nearly two decades ago. The original scene, from his 2008 appearance on KBS2's beloved travel variety show 2 Days & 1 Night, showed Kang devouring bomdong bibimbap from a simple aluminum pot while proclaiming that vegetables tasted better than meat, leaving an indelible impression on viewers.

That 18-year-old clip has recently experienced what Koreans call a yeokjuhaeng — a reverse run or viral resurgence — spreading rapidly across online communities and social media platforms. The renewed interest has sparked a wave of bomdong bibimbap recipe shares and cooking videos, with the dish becoming an unexpected food trend as spring approaches.

Internet Reacts with Delight

Korean netizens have responded to the nostalgic moment with characteristic enthusiasm. Comments have flooded social media with reactions including "Out with the fancy stuff, in with the bomdong," "An unforgettable scene even after 18 years," and "I get hungry every time I watch this." Many fans noted that Kang's authentic joy while eating remains just as infectious now as it was in 2008.

The viral resurgence has also translated into real-world impact, with bomdong sales reportedly receiving a boost as home cooks rush to recreate the simple but satisfying dish that Kang made famous. Food bloggers and content creators have joined the trend, posting their own versions of the bibimbap that started it all.

A New Chapter: Kang Ho-dong's Bookstore

The new show represents a different side of the entertainer known primarily for his larger-than-life hosting style. In Kang Ho-dong's Bookstore, Kang transforms into "Hocrates" — a play on Socrates — as the owner of a bookstore where he engages guests in deep, meaningful conversations about life.

The program promises an eclectic mix of guests, from top celebrities to unexpected public figures and people rarely seen in the entertainment sphere. The intimate talk show format marks a departure from the high-energy competition and game shows that have defined much of Kang's career, suggesting a more reflective and personal approach to television.

With anticipation building ahead of the March 6 premiere, the bomdong bibimbap teaser has proven to be a masterful piece of marketing, tapping into collective nostalgia while introducing audiences to what promises to be one of the spring season's most anticipated new programs.