From army cook to viral chef: BTS’ Jung Kook shocks fans with ‘200-cookie’ story

BTS member Jung Kook is once again going viral — not for music, but for his unexpected “genius cook” side.

A video titled “BTS answers the most searched questions on the internet” was uploaded Monday to the YouTube channel, WIRED, where Jung Kook revealed a surprising detail about his culinary skills.

Asked where he learned to cook, Jung Kook said, “I learned a lot of knife skills in the military.”

His bandmates quickly backed up the claim. J-Hope said, “He’s really good with a knife,” while Jimin added, “He cut himself a lot. There was a lot of blood,” highlighting Jung Kook’s effort to improve his knife skills.

Jung Kook said he also taught himself by watching videos, explaining, “I like doing things on my own, so I learned by watching content.”

That comment led Suga to share a story that quickly caught fans’ attention: Jung Kook recently made about 200 Dubai-style chewy cookies and personally handed them out to staff.

“I’m planning to make them again tonight,” Jung Kook said, showing his continued enthusiasm.

Other members said Jung Kook’s cooking is a regular part of his daily life. J-Hope said, “He makes pasta and cooks a lot,” while Suga said, “Whenever we gather, he’s cooking by himself.” V added, “When you go to Jung Kook’s house, he cooks for you.”

Jung Kook has previously gone viral for his homemade recipes, including perilla oil makguksu (buckwheat noodles), ramen porridge and creative instant noodle dishes — many of which sparked global fan recreations and social media trends.

The singer enlisted in December 2023 and served in an artillery brigade under the Korean Army’s 5th Infantry Division. He also worked as a military cook, drawing attention at the time. During his service, he said on a fan community platform, “ARMY, how are you? I’m doing well. I’m working out hard and cleaning thoroughly, even the ceilings,” adding, “I’m also cooking well,” indirectly hinting at his role.

Last month, BTS released its fifth full-length album, “ARIRANG,” and the title track “SWIM” ranked No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, maintaining its top-tier position for a second consecutive week.