I am Choi Yeon, the representative of Goldtuna.
I have a profound and enduring love for the art of cooking.
On days when my family gathers, I am the one who steps forward to prepare labor-intensive stews and slow-simmered hot pots. What began as a simple joy in receiving praise has, over time, become a defining pillar of my life. Eventually, I realized that through food, I could communicate with others and pour my entire heart into a single dish.
Food is never merely a means to satisfy hunger.
It is a vital link that connects life, creation, individuality, the art of sincere service, and shared culture. Today, I would like to share the five philosophies that I weave into every meal I prepare.
1. Food bridges one life to another.
Eating is far more than simple consumption.
Through food, we connect with another living being, and that life’s energy becomes a part of who we are. The fact that another life constitutes my own body and mind fills me with a constant sense of reverence.
Whenever I see the tuna resting on the cutting board at the restaurant, I think of the long journey it took to reach this moment. Reflecting on that process, I naturally bow my head and approach the ingredients with deep gratitude. This is where the truth of the phrase "I am what I eat" begins.
2. Cooking is an act of creation.
Cuisine is an art form.
Ingredients hold infinite possibilities, much like a composer’s musical notes. Even the same ingredient can be transformed into something entirely new depending on how it is handled.
I once looked at leftover pork belly and zucchini in the refrigerator and decided to create a refined, clear pork soup. Born from the question of whether such a delicate flavor could be achieved with pork, the dish earned the admiration of my entire team. This is the creative heart of cooking—a constant exploration of new possibilities that goes far beyond simply filling a plate.
3. A dish reflects the maker’s character.
Every meal captures the unique perspective of the person who made it.
The sashimi at our restaurant is special. I believe our guests return and recommend us because of the distinct identity found in our methods—the patient, full thawing process, the generous thickness of the cuts, and the quiet dedication required to remove every drop of excess moisture.
Individual character in cooking ensures that a chef is remembered. When a single piece of sashimi is imbued with devoted care and a story, guests can feel my presence through the flavor alone.
4. Cooking is the art of sincere service.
Engraved on the blades of Goldtuna’s knives is the phrase: "Joy in the service of humanity."
To prepare food is not just a culinary task; it is a heartfelt act of hospitality. Offering a meal to those who are hungry transcends a simple transaction.
I am someone who serves people through food.
It is my hope that the dishes placed before our guests make their day a little brighter and encourage conversation and laughter to bloom. I believe this spirit of sincere service is what gives my life and my profession its true dignity.
5. Food builds a shared culture.
As the saying goes, "To know a nation, look at its food," cuisine is culture itself.
Sharing a meal is an act of binding people together. I often witness guests at Goldtuna who arrive with formal distance, only to leave with warm smiles after sharing a meal together.
Therefore, I am certain that food is not merely something on a plate, but a vital element that connects human beings and fosters a shared culture.
In closing
I carry a deep love for this craft.
Cooking is more than just a technique or a calculation of sustenance.
“Cuisine connects life to life and person to person;
it is an art form that holds both creation and character.
Above all, through food, I serve others and build a lasting culture.
Choi Yeon, Representative of Goldtuna
Goldtuna is more than just a place to eat tuna.
It is a space defined by devoted care, gratitude, and genuine communication. Through this restaurant, I wish to connect with those who love food and create happiness together. This philosophy is my life’s work, and the message I wish to share with the world.