Netflix is reportedly developing a new series titled Seorabeol Knife, which expands the universe of the hit show Bon Appétit, Your Majesty.. This upcoming project will introduce a fresh cast and a new narrative set in an earlier historical period of Korea.
Cha Eun Woo and the shift to the Silla period
The new series, Seorabeol Knife, departs from the Joseon era setting of its predecessor to explore the much older Silla period. According to What's on Netflix, the plot centers on Kim Jae-gyeom, a modern chef trained in Italy who is transported back in time to serve as the royal chef for a Silla princess. The title itself is a nod to Seorabeol, the ancient name for the capital of the Silla kingdom.
While the story and cast are new, the project maintains a creative link to the original series through director Jang Tae-yoo, who is reportedly returning to helm the production. This approach allows Netflix to maintain the visual and thematic tone that resonated with audiences while refreshing the character dynamics.
The 44.1 million view momentum behind Seorabeol Knife
The decision to expand this specific franchise is driven by the overwhelming performance of Bon Appétit, Your Majesty. As reported by What's on Netflix, the original series amassed 44.1 million views between 2025 and the first half of 2026. Its domestic appeal was equally strong, with Nielsen Korea reporting a viewership reach of 17.1%.
Critical reception also provided a strong foundation for a spin-off, with the show maintaining a 95% audience score and an 80% critics' score on Rotten Tomatoes. By opting for a spin-off rather than a traditional second season, Netflix can capitalize on this popularity without risking the narrative closure of the original protagonists, chef Yeon Ji-young (played by Lim Yoon-a) and King Lee Heon (played by Lee Chae-min).
Moving beyond the Joseon era of Bon Appétit, Your Majesty
This expansion reflects a broader trend of adapting web-based intellectual property into multi-layered cinematic universes. Bon Appétit, Your Majesty was originally based on the web novel Surviving as Yeonsangun's Chef by Park Guk-jae and has since seen its own adaptation as a webtoon. The transition from the Joseon era to the Silla period suggests a desire to build a wider "culinary history" anthology within the Netflix library.
By diversifying the historical settings, Netflix avoids the saturation of Joseon-era dramas, which are common in the K-drama landscape. This strategic pivot allows the streamer to explore different aesthetics and political climates of ancient Korea while keeping the core "fish-out-of-water" culinary hook that attracted millions of viewers.
The January 27, 2027 military discharge hurdle
Despite the excitement,the production timeline for Seorabeol Knife remains precarious due to casting uncertainties. An initial report from Hankook Ilbo identified ASTRO member Cha Eun Woo as the lead, but his agency, Fantagio, has clarified that the actor has only received an offer and is currently considering the role.
Even if Cha Eun Woo accepts, his availability is limited by his mandatory military service, which is not scheduled to end until January 27, 2027. this creates a significant gap in the production schedule, leaving it unclear whether Netflix will wait for the star's return or pivot to a different lead to maintain the franchise's current momentum.
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