Yim Jungsik is an internationally renowned chef and founder of Jungsik in Seoul and New York. Over the years, he has earned prestigious awards, including three Michelin stars for the Big Apple location in 2024, the first restaurant outside of Korea to achieve this milestone.
Photo credits: Michelin Guide
Born in Suwon, South Korea, Yim Jungsik was assigned to the base kitchen during his military service at the age of 19. This "lightning-fast" experience inspired him pursue.
After that, he worked as a bartender and pastry chef in Seoul before moving to the United States in 2003 to study at the Culinary Institute of America (CIA). During this time, he interned and apprenticed at some of New York City's most prestigious establishments, including Aquavit and Bouley.
Once he completed his studies, in 2006, he returned to Korea for a short time and then spent nine months in Spain, training at Akelarre and Zuberoa, where he was influenced and impressed by molecular innovations.
In 2009, he opened Jungsik, introducing the "New Korean" concept; its success led him to expand internationally, opening a second location in TriBeCa in 2011.
The Big Apple eatery earned its first Michelin star in 2013, followed by its second in 2014. In 2024, it culminated with the awarding of its third Michelin star, becoming the first Korean restaurant outside of Korea to receive such recognition. Its philosophy aims to create harmony between tradition and modernity, offering dishes that celebrate roots while embracing global influences.
