Two individuals of Korean descent named to TIME100 Next 2023

Korean American chef Kristen Kish, winner of Season 10 of “Top Chef,” and Korean Canadian filmmaker Celine Song have been recognized in the TIME100 Next 2023. This prestigious list, released by Time magazine on September 13, spotlights the emerging leaders in various fields such as politics, health, science, business, arts, and sports from around the world.

Kish, celebrated in the Innovators category, grew up in Michigan as an adoptee. Since clinching victory on “Top Chef,” her star has steadily risen in the American culinary scene. She’s authored cookbooks, hosted the food-related shows, and most recently took on the role of host for Season 21 of “Top Chef.” With her dynamic presence, she exemplifies the forthcoming wave of celebrity chefs.

Song, distinguished in the Artists category, made waves with her critically lauded film “Past Lives,” which debuted in 2023. Pedro Pascal, who penned an article about Song for the list, remarked, “In my imagination I’m special enough to have had my own “past life” with Celine; the generosity of her gaze taps into a familiar longing, an understanding you’ve always needed, a space you’ve never known how to fill. There is nothing like her film, and there is no one like her. We must look after her, because she is looking after all of us.”

BY NICOLE CHANG    [chang.nicole@koreadaily.com]