Keimyung College's hotel culinary program wraps up 2026 President's Cup cooking competition

The hotel culinary program at Keimyung College of Culture held the 2026 President's Cup Cooking Competition on Saturday at the school's culinary practice facilities in Daegu, drawing 52 students from 38 high schools across the country.

The competition was designed to give high school seniors interested in careers in the food service industry a chance to demonstrate the culinary skills they had developed, while also giving them firsthand exposure to a professional culinary education environment.

Participants had a limited amount of time to complete original dishes showcasing their ideas and technical skills, producing a spirited contest throughout the day.

Judges evaluated competitors on hygiene management and proficiency during the cooking process, plating, and the commercial viability and creativity of their menus.

Jung Jun-woo of Daegu Sports High School took the grand prize for his original menu concept and polished culinary technique. Kim Do-hyeon of Hyeopseong High School won the gold award, and a total of 14 students received prizes, including silver, bronze and merit awards.

Winners received certificates and prizes, and will be eligible for scholarship benefits and other special privileges upon enrolling at Keimyung College.

Chang Sang-jun, a professor in the hotel culinary program who oversaw the competition, said the school would continue working to develop skilled culinary professionals capable of leading K-food and the global food service industry through AI technology, backed by strong practical training infrastructure and a well-structured curriculum.