Who is Heather Jeong?
Chef, food writer, Korean food expert, storyteller, actor, wife, mother and friend.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I wish I had learnt more languages to gain more perspective of different cultures. Speaking Korean and English fluently gave me an insight into the beauty and different nuances of the two. Imagine the possibilities with more? I guess it’s never too late to start… And to speak my mind… if I want to…
Who inspires you and why?
My family inspires me with their support and because of them I want to be the best version of myself. But more and more I’m inspired by people I meet everyday. There’s always something to be learnt from others which are both inspiring and humbling. And of course the late Anthony Bourdain strengthened the belief to embrace new discovery and understanding.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Continue to support Michelle Lim Davidson so that her story of Korean Australian adoptees ‘Koreaboo’ reaches a wider audience. Share the secrets of traditional Korean cooking that were passed down from many generations, techniques that are increasingly disappearing, even in Korea. And to inspire others to cook more easily and confidently and to let the ingredients sing. The broad leaves of Napa cabbage captures the energy of the sun. We are all living things and here together only briefly.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Usually the last destination that I had visited. There is an unbelievable joy in discovering an unknown country or place. The more unfamiliar the better. But I always love to go back to my place of birth, Korea. There is a longing to go back to my own tribe, only to realise over and over again that my tribe is back here, in Australia.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Manly to Shelley Beach walk. It takes only 20 minutes but offers an insight into how delightful Sydney is; blue sky, blue ocean, beautiful wildlife and of course our coffee. Friends marvel at the easy accessibility of our great outdoors.
What are you currently reading?
The Bee Sting by Paul Murray. It’s a gift from my daughter who loved it. I’m finding it a bit like a puzzle. I haven’t solved it yet.
What are you currently listening to?
Jacob Collier. He is a genius. And Gang of Youth because they produce good music, even for a middle aged woman like me.
Happiness is?
Glass of white wine in hand, sharing a meal with loved ones overlooking the calm waters of Lake Macquarie.
What does the future hold for you?
Continue to be involved in story telling, whether through cooking or the arts. Take time off to write and to be disciplined in that craft. I already have a title in mind – Dancing kimchi aju(ma)mma.
Heather stars in Koreaboo by Michelle Lim Davidson – which will be presented at La Boite Theatre as part of the 2026 Brisbane Festival from 2 – 19 September, before playing at Melbourne’s Malthouse Theatre from 24 September – 10 October.
Image: Heather Jeong (supplied)