PHILOSOPHY
The name “I-Sang”, meaning “ideal” in Korean, is also inspired by the first two syllables of Chef Steve Sanggun Lee’s Korean name—Lee Sanggun. It reflects his lifelong pursuit of culinary balance: between tradition and innovation, familiarity and curiosity, Korea and the world.
“Whenever I encounter a new or unfamiliar ingredient, I instinctively imagine how it might pair with Korean flavors.”
— Chef Steve
For Chef Steve, travel is not just about places—it’s about discovering new tastes and weaving them into the language of Korean cuisine.
CHEF STEVE SANGGUN LEE
Born and raised in South Korea, Chef Steve’s culinary journey began at his family’s dinner table. He formally trained at Kyonggi University before refining his craft at the Bentley Restaurant Group in Sydney, Australia.
In 2020, he became Head Chef of Hansik Goo in Hong Kong—the first overseas venture by his mentor, Chef Mingoo Kang. There, he led the kitchen to earn its first Michelin star in 2022, reimagining traditional Korean dishes through a modern lens.
In 2023, Chef Steve received the Michelin Young Chef Award (Hong Kong & Macau), recognizing his creative voice and deep respect for his roots.
Now, in 2025, he opens Restaurant I-Sang in Bangkok, offering contemporary Korean cuisine inspired by childhood memories and local Thai terroir.
JOIN OUR TEAM
We are calling for all passionate individuals to join our front-of-house and back-of-house team.
If you are enthusiastic, skilled, and eager to be a part of I-Sang's culinary journey showcasing creative Korean cuisine, we want to hear from you.
Send your CV and cover letter to us now!
+66 (0)82 090 4999
2/F, VIVRE LANGSUAN, 34/3 SOI LANGSUAN, LUMPHINI, PATHUM WAN, BANGKOK 10330
