From inasal to kare-kare, Filipino flavors take center stage as Korean and Filipino stars come together in the heart of Seoul
Rakuten Viki, the global streaming destination for Asian entertainment, is bringing Filipino hospitality and Korean star power together in Kumusta, an all-new Korean-Filipino reality series that celebrates the rich flavors, traditions, and warmth of Filipino culture through food.
The cross-cultural series unites beloved Korean and Filipino celebrities as they run a restaurant dedicated to introducing authentic Filipino cuisine to diners in South Korea, creating meaningful connections one meal at a time.
Ji Chang-wook Takes on a Refreshing New Role
Leading the cast is South Korean heartthrob Ji Chang-wook, whose hit dramas The K2 and Healer have earned him a loyal fanbase in the Philippines.
This time, however, fans will see a completely different side of the actor.
Stepping away from his signature action-packed and dramatic roles, Ji serves as the restaurant’s head server, showcasing his playful personality, warmth, and genuine charm as he welcomes guests, navigates cultural differences, and builds friendships with his Filipino co-stars.
Kumusta also marks Ji Chang-wook’s first variety show appearance since starring in the 2025 revenge thriller The Manipulated, making the series a must-watch for longtime fans eager to see him in a lighter, more relaxed setting.
An All-Star Filipino Cast
Joining Ji Chang-wook is an impressive lineup of Filipino stars who bring both entertainment and heart to the restaurant.
Jodi Sta. Maria takes on the role of hall manager, ensuring smooth restaurant operations, while Janella Salvador works behind the scenes as sous chef.
Meanwhile, Francine Diaz joins Ji as head server, and Arci Muñoz takes on multiple responsibilities across both the kitchen and dining area.
Together, they face the daily challenges of running a busy restaurant while proudly sharing Filipino culture, hospitality, and traditions with Korean diners.
A Michelin-Starred Taste of the Philippines
At the heart of Kumusta is celebrated Michelin-starred Filipino chef JP Anglo, who curates a menu designed to introduce Korean audiences to the bold and diverse flavors of Filipino cuisine.
The restaurant serves a selection of “blockbuster” Filipino favorites, including:
- Inasal
- Kare-kare
- Bagoong
- Lechon
- Pork sisig
- Gising-gising
Adding a creative twist, the meals are paired with Filipino-inspired versions of traditional Korean banchan, featuring dishes such as dilis, atsara, and tokwa’t baboy, all complemented by refreshing calamansi juice.
The series also welcomes an exciting roster of guest servers throughout its run, including Korean actors Seo In-guk, Kim Myung-soo, and Kim Min-seok.
More Than a Reality Show
Beyond the food and entertainment, Kumusta serves as a celebration of the growing friendship between the Philippines and South Korea.
As Korean entertainment continues to enjoy immense popularity among Filipino audiences, the series reverses the cultural exchange by introducing Korean viewers to the richness of Filipino cuisine, traditions, and hospitality.
By bringing together artists from both countries and placing food at the center of the experience, Kumusta highlights how shared meals and genuine human connections can bridge cultures and strengthen relationships.
Streaming Across Southeast Asia
Kumusta will stream free on Rakuten Viki’s ad-supported video-on-demand (AVOD) service across Southeast Asia, including the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Singapore.
Fans who can’t get enough of Ji Chang-wook can also stream two of his fan-favorite dramas, Melting Me Softly and Suspicious Partner, now available on Viki.
With its blend of celebrity charm, authentic Filipino flavors, and heartfelt cultural exchange, Kumusta promises to be a delightful series that celebrates the universal language of food while bringing Filipino and Korean audiences even closer together.
