Kwanghee Confronts Racism in Spain—He’s Honest Reaction Shown on Air

On the April 15 episode of JTBC’s variety show ‘Street Food Bikers’, a troubling yet powerful moment aired — showing Hwang Kwanghee experiencing racial discrimination while filming in Cádiz, Spain.

In the episode, cast members Ryu Soo-young, Hwang Kwanghee, Shin Hyun-ji, Bae In-hyuk, and Jeon So-mi set up their pop-up bicycle kitchen “Yorijori” in front of Cádiz City Hall, kicking off their adventure selling K-food to locals.

During a shopping run to pick up missing ingredients — baguettes, cabbage, and cheese — Kwanghee got lost in a maze of narrow streets. “Director, you knew I was going the wrong way!” he joked on camera. “If I get lost, it’s tough for you too!” he added, trying to lighten the mood.

But the moment turned sour when a passerby on a bike whistled at him in a mocking way — a clear act of racial discrimination. Kwanghee didn’t stay silent. He clapped back with frustration, muttering, “XX…?” The show emphasized the moment with a caption: “Racism shouldn’t be tolerated.”

Despite the upsetting incident, what followed warmed viewers' hearts.

As their street food stall opened, curious locals began to flock in, eager to taste the Korean dishes. One customer in particular stood out — a man who tried Bae In-hyuk’s squid and chive pancake (ojingeo buchujeon) and was blown away.

He turned to Jeon So-mi and said, “I had to tell you this. That pancake was really something special.” He went on, “The squid was delicate and soft — the softest I’ve ever had. It wasn’t chewy at all; it just melted in my mouth. It was perfect.”

The heartfelt compliment brought visible joy to the cast, who were moved by the genuine praise and cultural exchange.

‘Street Food Bikers’ airs every Tuesday at 10:40 p.m. KST on JTBC — and it’s serving up more than just food. It’s delivering connection, resilience, and raw moments that stick with you.

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