According to the Korean Film Council’s integrated ticketing system on March 3, The King’s Warden recorded a cumulative 9,213,408 moviegoers as of March 2. With the 10 million mark within reach, Park Ji Hoon is on the verge of earning the prestigious title of a “10-million actor.”
Amid this momentum, news of his next project quickly went viral particularly after the original author shared an emotional reaction. On March 2, J Robin, the creator of The Legend of Kitchen Soldier, wrote, “I’ve used up all my luck in this lifetime. ㅠㅠ,” expressing overwhelming joy. The author added, “He looks like he walked straight out of the novel cover. I’m really looking forward to his acting.” J Robin also responded to fans’ direct messages, noting that physical copies of the novel are available for order at bookstores nationwide.
The Legend of Kitchen Soldier is based on a popular web novel and webtoon of the same name. The series is about Kang Seong Jae, a young man from a poor background, who enlists in the military at 20 and unexpectedly rises to become a legendary cook. The drama promises eccentric culinary creations alongside relatable coming-of-age moments, raising expectations for a unique blend of humor and heart.
Park Ji Hoon will take on the role of Kang Seong Jae, a diligent young man who grows up in a difficult family environment. After enlisting in the military, he unexpectedly acquires special abilities and is reassigned as a cook soldier. Following a mysterious voice and quest screen that only he can see, Kang Seong Jae begins leveling up in both skill and confidence.
Having secured both box office success and buzz with The King’s Warden, all eyes are now on how Park Ji Hoon will transform into a cook soldier in his next role. Notably, the actor has previously described himself as a “military enthusiast,” openly expressing his interest in army culture an element that could add authentic synergy to the character.
With the countdown to 10 million tickets underway and his next project already locked in, Park Ji Hoon appears poised to continue the “Danjong Oppa” fever and potentially spark yet another cultural phenomenon.
Sources: Nate