Ahn Hyo Seop is stepping into the kitchen for the first time in his career. The Korean actor plays a mysterious genius chef named Kang Han in JTBC’s upcoming weekend drama Final Table. The series follows talented Korean chefs from around the world as they compete in a high-stakes cooking survival show called The Table: K-Chef 2026. JTBC confirmed the premiere date of October 24, 2026, with the drama airing at 10:40 p.m. KST. The show will also stream globally on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories.
A Genius Chef with a Hidden Past
Kang Han is a Korean chef who has spent most of his career working at restaurants overseas under the name Chris K. His culinary talent is exceptional, and he possesses an outstanding palate. Everything about him, from his family background to his nationality, remains a mystery. His intense wanderlust and free-spirited personality have kept him from settling in one place. He moves to a different restaurant every year and travels the world constantly.
Kang Han holds a contract with a famous restaurant in New York. He stays in Korea for a while to enjoy a simple life close to nature. One day, he visits Familia, a small Italian restaurant filled with memories of his father. This visit leads him to become the head chef of the struggling restaurant. He ultimately chooses to compete in The Table: K-Chef 2026, postponing his planned trip to the United States. The reason behind his decision to lead the small restaurant Familia remains a key mystery in the story.
Hong Hwa Yeon Plays Choi Song Yi
Hong Hwa Yeon stars as Choi Song Yi, the only daughter of Choi Seung Hyo, a man considered the godfather of Western cuisine in Korea. Song Yi works as the capable hall manager of Familia and fights tirelessly to keep her late father’s restaurant alive. She does not become easily discouraged despite facing various incidents and accidents while trying to build the restaurant. Her meeting with Kang Han becomes a turning point that could change everything.
Chang Ryul and Jung Yoo Jin Join the Cast
Chang Ryul plays Cha Woo Jin, a culinary prodigy and perfectionist who serves as the executive chef of Exception, the greatest restaurant in Korea. Cha Woo Jin is described as Kang Han’s greatest rival. His sole career defeat came against Chris K., making their rivalry one of the central dynamics of the competition. Chang Ryul brings charisma to the role of a chef who controls the atmosphere of his restaurant with authority.
Jung Yoo Jin portrays Seon Jung Won, the executive producer of The Table: K-Chef 2026. Her character displays gentle leadership and a deep love for food.
Supporting Cast and Character Dynamics
Jang Young Nam plays Moon Hae Sun, the chairwoman of Pyeongyeon Group, which ranks number one in the domestic foodservice industry. Her character brings a cold aura and adds tension to the story. Cha Ji Yeon portrays Baek Hyun Joo, Moon Hae Sun’s half-sibling. Baek Hyun Joo has a strong desire to take on the position of Pyeongyeon Group’s chair, creating a cold atmosphere in her scenes.
The Script Reading and Production Team
The cast gathered for a script reading ahead of the premiere. Ahn Hyo Seop impressed the production team by naturally using various languages to portray his character. He immersed the set with his serious facial expression and sharp focus during scenes showing his cooking in front of judges. Hong Hwa Yeon showcased her character’s strong personality through her lines, subtly portraying how Song Yi does not become easily discouraged.
Final Table is written and directed by Kim Do Hoon. The drama is produced by SLL, B.A.ENTERTAINMENT, and Yeonghwa Sa Du Jung. The series consists of 12 episodes.
Release Date and Streaming Details
Final Table premieres on October 24, 2026, on JTBC. The drama airs on Saturdays and Sundays at 10:40 p.m. KST. International viewers can watch the series on Prime Video, which will make it available in over 240 countries and territories on the same day. The first stills released by JTBC show Ahn Hyo Seop in a white chef’s uniform, displaying a confident smile and a sharp gaze that gives off an air of professionalism as a skilled chef.
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A New Challenge for Ahn Hyo Seop
Ahn Hyo Seop is known for his roles in popular dramas like Business Proposal, Dr. Romantic, A Time Called You, and Sold Out on You. He has also appeared in films including KPop Demon Hunters and Omniscient Reader: The Prophecy. Taking on the role of Kang Han marks his first time playing a chef. The character’s mysterious background and exceptional culinary skills present a different challenge from his previous romantic comedy roles. The drama blends intense cooking competition with personal stories of rivalry and connection. As the chefs push one another to the edge, plate after plate, the rivalry gradually turns into something closer to care.
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