JTBC‘s ’Final Table': Will Jang Ryu's Chef Character Outshine the Competition in K Chef 2026?

Daniel Kim | 2026.03.24

Jang Ryul / Photo courtesy of Management mmm
[Sports Today reporter Im Si-ryeong] Actor Jang Ryul is set to become a star chef.

On March 23, Management mmm announced Jang Ryul’s casting in JTBC’s new drama Final Table. The series follows Korean chefs from around the world competing in "The Table: K Chef 2026," and promises a showcase of stunning cuisine alongside the striking personal stories that drive the competition.

In the drama, Jang plays Cha Woo-jin, the head chef at the country’s leading contemporary restaurant. Raised as a culinary prodigy who focused on nothing but cooking from a young age, Cha is a perfectionist who allows no margin for error. He’s the kitchen maestro every cook dreams of working under and a celebrated name both domestically and internationally.

Jang will bring a sharply honed charisma to Cha Woo-jin. Like his impeccably precise dishes, Cha projects an aura that keeps his kitchen staff on edge. Exacting and disciplined, he tolerates no slack and enforces standards so strict that even the smallest lapse is unacceptable—producing a commanding presence that leaves little room for compromise.

Previously, Jang captured audiences with a wide range of roles across film and television. From My Name to Gold Spoon, The Price, Morning Comes Even to the Psychiatric Ward, and Chunhwa Romance, he has demonstrated a broad acting spectrum and delivered memorable, impactful performances across genres.

In particular, his recent work in Love Me earned praise: he played a free-spirited music director and quietly unfolded a tender love story. His sweet, gentle portrayal created an understated character that resonated strongly with viewers.

Now he’s preparing a 180-degree turn with Final Table. With anticipation already building over his take on Cha Woo-jin, Final Table—an inside look at the real world of elite chefs—will air on JTBC later this year.

[Sports Today reporter Im Si-ryeong ent@stoo.com]
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