King Sejong the Great’s meat rule spices up What Did the King Eat?

"I won't eat without meat." In the first episode of the TV Chosun historical food variety show 'What Did the King Eat?' which aired on the 8th, unexpected facts regarding King Sejong the Great's eating habits and physique were revealed.

History expert Choi Tae Sung explained that the face of King Sejong the Great we see on banknotes today is an imagined depiction based on royal portraits lost during the Imjin War. Based on records from the Annals, it was also mentioned that Sejong's physique was in a state of 'obesity,' being overweight and heavy. Analysis suggests that Sejong's actual appearance, as someone who avoided exercise, would have been much larger than his current image.

In particular, Sejong was a "meat king" who enjoyed meat so much that he would not eat a meal without it. The cast showed great interest in Sejong's firm dietary preferences, noting that he even made noodles with meat.

The secret to having 22 children? Rooster testicle dishes and 'Pogye'

One of the secrets behind King Sejong the Great being able to have 22 children drew attention when "rooster testicle dishes" were mentioned. At the time, there was a belief in 'ihyeongbohyeong'—the idea that eating a specific body part would make one resemble its characteristics. Due to the nature of a rooster leading hens, it was perceived to be good for stamina. Pharmacist Jung Jae-hoon added that nutrients not destroyed during the cooking process could provide even a minute amount of help.

'Pogye,' a Joseon-style chicken dish said to have been developed by Sejong's dedicated physician Jeon Sun-ui to prevent his picky eating, was also recreated. The Pogye recreated by Chef Lee Yeon-ju, following the original ancient cookbook, is characterized by a mild flavor without red seasoning. Guest Lee Min-woo tasted the finished Pogye and exclaimed, "I can taste four different flavors in one bite."

An abalone table set with the filial piety of Mun-jong

Finally, the "filial abalone table" prepared by Sejong's son, Mun-jong, for his father was revealed. Using abalone from Jeju, Chef Lee Yeon-ju presented three dishes: blanched abalone, royal skewers, raw pufferfish jeok, and *kimchi* abalone chimchae.

Yang Sang-guk emptied his bowl, saying, "This is a flavor that brings back an appetite even if you didn't have one," while Lee Min-woo shared his thoughts, saying, "This was the most delicious and fun history lesson in the world."

In the second episode of 'What Did the King Eat?', which airs every Wednesday at 10 PM, the story of Sukjong and Jang Hui-bin will continue, with actor Im Ho appearing as a guest.