'The Legend of Kitchen Soldier' Nears 10% Ratings in Just Two Weeks Thanks to Standout Performances

20 May 2026, 21:59 by K-Soul · allkpop

With trending actor Park Ji Hoon bringing a warm and emotional charm to the screen, TVING’s 'The Legend of Kitchen Soldier' is on the verge of hitting double-digit ratings.

The drama, which premiered on May 11 and quickly became a hot topic, recorded a peak nationwide rating of 9.9% on May 19 with just four episodes aired. It also ranked No. 1 in its time slot across all channels, including terrestrial broadcasters, among tvN’s key 20–49 demographic. In addition, Episodes 3 and 4 topped TVING’s paid subscription contribution rankings.

Based on the hit web novel and webtoon of the same name, 'The Legend of Kitchen Soldier' has been steadily gaining praise for feeling “even more original than the original,” powered by the cast’s standout performances.

Park Ji Hoon Draws Praise for Emotional Performance

Actor Park Ji Hoon delivered a memorable performance through his emotionally layered portrayal in 'The Legend of Kitchen Soldier.'

In Episode 4, aired on May 19, Park Ji Hoon’s character Kang Sung Jae overcame unexpected hardships, earning enthusiastic reactions from viewers. The episode recorded a new personal best rating of 7.9% nationwide among paid platform households, according to Nielsen Korea.

Previously, Kang Sung Jae had collapsed after exhausting his stamina by consecutively using high-level recipes, triggering a system overload shutdown. Miraculously regaining consciousness, he encountered his father in a subconscious state and finally broke down in tears while reflecting on his struggles.

Afterward, Kang Sung Jae resolved to become a true chef in honor of his father and safely returned to reality. Following the short but powerful reunion, he successfully impressed everyone with his “Pomodoro Braised Pollock Fillet,” earning both a certificate of recognition and a reward vacation.

He then rapidly improved his cooking abilities while honoring his father’s wishes, creating high-quality meals that maximized the soldiers’ energy levels. However, Sergeant Yoon Dong Hyun, played by Lee Hong Nae, began developing complicated feelings after overhearing officers praising Kang Sung Jae while criticizing him ahead of his discharge.

The episode’s ending further heightened curiosity when former reporter Jung Min Ah, played by Jeon So Young, suddenly appeared and embraced Kang Sung Jae. His shocked reaction and the envious gazes from fellow soldiers left viewers eager for what comes next.

Lee Hong Nae Wins Viewers Over With Comedic Charm

Lee Hong Nae also captured viewers’ attention with his unpredictable performance as Yoon Dong Hyun, the cooking soldier known for his disastrous culinary skills.

Although Yoon Dong Hyun cared far more about exercise than cooking, he hilariously took credit for meals that had essentially been completed by Kang Sung Jae. His clueless attempts to maintain the dignity of a senior soldier despite being unaware of the situation made viewers find him both absurd and lovable.

While he appeared tough and dependable due to his muscular physique, he also revealed an unexpectedly dramatic side by overreacting to even minor injuries, adding comedic energy to the show.

At the same time, Yoon Dong Hyun quietly protected Kang Sung Jae from the jealousy of other seniors and stood up against unfair treatment toward his juniors, showing the qualities of a genuinely caring superior. Despite his loneliness and insecurities about being compared to Kang Sung Jae, the character’s deeply human side continued resonating with audiences.

Lee Hong Nae infused the role with his own personality, delivering realistic and lively comedic acting. Viewers especially praised his fearless commitment to exaggerated scenes that required over-the-top performances rarely seen in real life, with many commenting that his acting skills have “reached a new level.”

Han Dong Hee Impresses as a Strong and Reliable Leader

Actress Han Dong Hee, who plays Lieutenant Jo Ye Rin, commander of Gangrim Outpost, showcased a strong screen presence by balancing cold authority with flexibility.

Han Dong Hee portrayed unwavering charisma even under pressure from superiors, while also expressing deep trust in her soldiers. As more details about her character’s past surfaced, viewers became increasingly curious about the hidden story surrounding her.

Her surprising versatility also stood out. During a tense situation involving a North Korean defector, she displayed both toughness and warmth, while later making a comedic appearance as a band member with a bold visual transformation in a fantasy sequence.

Freely moving between a responsible commander and comedic moments, Han Dong Hee’s dynamic performance added fresh energy to the drama and heightened anticipation for upcoming episodes.

Alongside Park Ji Hoon, Lee Hong Nae, and Han Dong Hee, the ensemble cast continues delivering standout performances in TVING original drama 'The Legend of Kitchen Soldier,' which airs every Monday and Tuesday at 8:50 p.m. KST on TVING and tvN.

Share this article SHARE