Entertainment network TV5 and streaming platform Viu Philippines have officially announced their landmark cross-cultural reality series, Kumusta, set to bring a unique fusion of Filipino and South Korean cultures straight to television and streaming screens starting May 24.
Unveiled during a grand media conference at the Sheraton Manila Hotel, the food-and-travel reality series features a powerhouse Filipino cast including Jodi Sta. Maria, Janella Salvador, Francine Diaz, and Arci Muñoz, alongside acclaimed chef-restaurateur JP Anglo.
Operating a fully operational pop-up restaurant in the bustling district of Gangnam in Seoul, South Korea, the team takes on the grueling challenge of introducing iconic Filipino comfort dishes—such as Chicken Inasal, Kare-Kare, Sisig, and Lechon—to local Korean diners.
Adding major Hallyu star power to the venture is South Korean superstar Ji Chang-wook, who joins the crew not as an actor, but as a dedicated front-of-house server.
“When I was offered to join the program Kumusta, I found it very interesting,” Ji Chang-wook shared during the media launch. “So introducing Filipino cuisine to Koreans was the interesting point for me, and I thought I would be a good help for this program. So I really appreciate being part of Kumusta, and I really did my best for this program.”
Ji further revealed that his decision to step away from the stove came from a place of humility.
“Actually, there is one reason that I chose to serve in the restaurant. It’s because I’m not good at cooking. So since I’m not good at cooking, if I go to the kitchen, it’s gonna be a big trouble for them. So I just supported and followed our boss, Chef JP,” he added.
Filmed by PODO Creative and produced by E&S Partners (a subsidiary of Echolive Korea), Kumusta strips away the typical scripted elements of reality television, capturing the intense, unfiltered reality of working 12-hour shifts for seven consecutive days in freezing weather. The series also promises star-studded guest appearances from other top Korean celebrities, including Seo In-guk, Kim Min-seok, and Kim Myung-soo.
Reflecting on the unexpected bonds forged through the chaotic kitchen environment, Jodi Sta. Maria highlighted the profound sense of community that developed among the international crew.
“It’s like four or five people that you put together. We were all like strangers in a way, but then we became family. Like, it’s really the camaraderie of each and every one. So, ‘yun ‘yung isa sa mga memorable moments,” Sta. Maria said.
Kumusta premieres on May 24 on TV5’s Weekend Trip block, and will be available for simultaneous streaming exclusively on the Viu app with multiple subtitle options for regional audiences.