Korean actress Song Ji Hyo came to Vietnam to attend the introduction of the program "Ms. Ngo praises deliciousness" season 2. Accompanying her were chef David Lee, two young singers Dillan and Dang Hong Hai.
At the event, Song Ji Hyo recalled her experience of enjoying balut in the first season. The dish, familiar to many Vietnamese people, often creates mixed reactions from international tourists because of its characteristic ingredients and appearance. However, the actress said she is not shy but especially loves the flavor of this dish.
Personally, I find balut very delicious. I know not every Vietnamese person likes this dish, but it suits my taste very well. I feel it's very delicious and very palatable," Song Ji Hyo shared.
The actress's reaction attracted attention because balut is often considered one of the culinary challenges for foreign tourists when coming to Vietnam. Some people are hesitant when they see the dish for the first time, while tourists who are willing to experience are attracted by the fatty, soft taste and the way of using it with Vietnamese coriander, ginger, and salt.
For Song Ji Hyo, enjoying local food is not just about feeling the flavor. This is also how she approaches the living habits, street culture and life of Vietnamese people.
In the first season, the program mainly exploits cuisine and rhythm of life in Ho Chi Minh City. In season 2, the journey is expanded to the Mekong Delta. Members will directly immerse themselves in local life, participate in typical activities and learn about the story behind each dish.
When asked if there was any dish in the new season that made a stronger impression than balut, Song Ji Hyo did not reveal it. She only said that the audience will witness many dishes and experience "unique and strange" when the program airs.
In this journey, Le Duong Bao Lam, Cris Phan, Dillan and Dang Hong Hai played the role of bridges between international members and local people. They introduced eating habits, explained ingredients, customs and cultural features related to each destination.
Song Ji Hyo said that Le Duong Bao Lam is a humorous person, with a strong energy source that she can hardly keep up with. On the contrary, Cris Phan brings a sense of calmness, helping her have more time to chat and enjoy many dishes.
Dillan and Dang Hong Hai used to be trainees in Korea, so they can communicate in Korean. Chef David Lee also supports translation, helping Song Ji Hyo better understand cultural stories during the trip.
