[Reader Warning: Spoilers are ahead.]
The final episode has aired, and the winner is revealed. The winner of 'Culinary Class Wars,' Napoli Matfia (real name Kwon Sung Joon), shared his thoughts on his victory.
On October 9, Napoli Matfia posted a long message on his Instagram reflecting on his experience winning the Netflix original show. He began by stating, "Before sharing my joy, I want to start by offering an apology and expressing my gratitude." He explained that over the seven months it took to keep the results secret, he found himself getting excited without realizing it. "Even though I'm not young, I acted and thought somewhat immaturely. Throughout the show, I received much advice from those around me to remain humble."
He went on to acknowledge his behavior during the competition, saying, "To avoid feeling intimidated or overwhelmed, I ended up putting on more bravado. Watching myself on the show, I realized I came across as arrogant and lacking, which has become a moment of reflection for me."
Napoli Matfia also apologized to Edward Lee, his final opponent, for a comment made during the tense finale. He explained, "My comment, 'I'll crush you,' was intended as a motivational push for us to give it our all in the final challenge, but I now realize it came off as arrogant and thoughtless. I want to sincerely apologize once again."
He concluded by expressing gratitude, saying, "Lastly, this year has been one of immense learning," and thanked the production team, the 99 fellow chefs, and everyone who supported him.
Napoli Matfia took first place in 'Culinary Class Wars,' securing the grand prize of 300 million KRW (approximately 230,000 USD).
Below is Napoli Matfia's full letter to fans:
"Before sharing my joy, I want to start by offering an apology and expressing my gratitude.
Over the past seven months, I had a hard time keeping the news of my victory under wraps, and towards the end, I unknowingly became a bit too excited. Even though I'm not young, I acted and thought somewhat immaturely. Throughout the show, I received much advice from those around me to remain humble. I also learned valuable lessons from my fellow chefs, including Chef Edward, Chef Triple Star, and Chef Crazy Cook, who consistently demonstrated humility and never acted boastful.
At the end of the "Tofu Hell" challenge, when these three chefs were the only ones left, I honestly thought they were all stronger competitors than me. To avoid feeling intimidated or overwhelmed, I ended up putting on more bravado. Watching myself on the show, I realized I came across as arrogant and lacking, which has become a moment of reflection for me.
I also want to extend my gratitude and apologies to Chef Edward. Although most of my remarks about him were edited out of the broadcast, I had expressed my amazement in an interview about his incredible tofu competition skills, creativity, and adventurous spirit, which left me in awe.
During the brief break at the end of the "Tofu Hell" mission, I went downstairs to offer words of encouragement and tell him that we’d meet at the top. My comment, "I'll crush you," was intended as a motivational push for us to give it our all in the final challenge, but I now realize it came off as arrogant and thoughtless. I want to sincerely apologize once again.
As the first opponent in the team battle, the leader of the second team, and my ultimate final-round adversary, I feel like I used up all my luck to win against Chef Edward. I may never be able to defeat him again. If we ever meet again in a team competition, I would gladly join his team. Next time, I’d love to take first place together. Thank you, and great work, Chef.
Lastly, this year has been one of immense learning. I want to express my gratitude to the hundreds of production staff who worked so hard, the 99 chefs who competed alongside me, and everyone who congratulated and supported me. Thank you."
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