Who is Sunjae Sunim? The First Temple Food Master and Netflix Legend

1. From a Devout Protestant to a Buddhist Icon

Ven. Sunjae’s spiritual journey began in an unexpected way. She was born in 1956 and attended a Protestant mission school. In fact, she was a dedicated Sunday school teacher in her youth. However, a sermon about parental devotion at a Buddhist retreat changed her heart. She realized that she could never fully repay her parents’ love. Consequently, she chose to become a Buddhist nun at the age of 25.

2. A Personal Miracle: “Food is Medicine”

Her passion for temple food was born out of a personal tragedy. In her younger years, doctors diagnosed her with terminal liver cirrhosis. They told her she only had a short time to live. But she returned to the temple and cured herself with a strict traditional diet. Since then, she has lived by the philosophy that “Food is the ultimate medicine.”

3. The Scholar Who Globalized Temple Food

Ven. Sunjae is more than just a cook; she is a pioneer who built the academic foundation of Korean cuisine.

• Institutional Success: She established the Sunjae Temple Food Culture Research Institute in 1995.
• National Recognition: The Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism designated her as the first-ever “Temple Food Master.” Furthermore, the Korean government awarded her the Bogwan Order of Cultural Merit.
• World Stage: She served as the Chairperson of the Hansik Promotion Institute. She has lectured at world-class schools such as the CIA in the USA and Le Cordon Bleu in France.

4. Dominating ‘Culinary Class Wars Season 2’

Recently, she captured global attention as a “White Spoon” contestant on Netflix’s Culinary Class Wars Season 2.

• Innovation: She surprised everyone by using modern tools like pasta machines and blenders. She proved that traditional food could adapt to the modern era.
• Top 7 Finalist: Although she faced challenges, judge Baek Jong-won used a “Super Pass” to save her. Eventually, she reached the TOP 7, proving her status as a true culinary legend.

5. Fun Facts: K-Pop Connections and Slow Aging

• Famous Family: Did you know she is related to a K-pop star? She is the 5th-degree aunt of Lee Chang-sub from the group BTOB.
• Slow Aging Icon: She is nearly 70 years old in 2026. However, she maintains remarkably youthful skin. Many fans believe her temple diet is the secret to “Slow Aging.”

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