TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwanese K-pop star Shuhua (葉舒華) from girl group I-dle launched the Taiwan version of YouTube show "Inspector" Tuesday (Sept. 9), featuring a fresh format under the new channel "Inspector" (鑑定師). The debut episode showcased Shuhua inviting Solar from K-pop group Mamamoo to tackle a unique culinary challenge involving Taiwan's most unusual local delicacies. The collaboration between the two popular Asian entertainers marks a significant cross-cultural entertainment venture.
Solar, who released her first Mandarin single in Taiwan in June and quickly topped streaming platform charts, joined Shuhua in sampling Taiwan's most unconventional culinary offerings. The episode challenged Solar to taste stinky tofu, a fermented delicacy, grass jelly, and fried crickets. Solar expressed her love for hotpot during the show, adding personal warmth to the adventurous tasting experience that showcased Taiwan's diverse food culture.
Known by her nickname "Brave Shuhua" (葉大膽), the host courageously tried the fried crickets first, suggesting a playful cricket "cheers" with Solar. Both entertainers discovered the insects' texture resembled small dried fish, a common Asian snack. Solar also tackled chicken comb and Dongshan duck head, initially hesitating before mustering courage to taste these traditional delicacies. She remarked that the chicken comb reminded her of what a chicken looks like before cooking.
The episode, packed with shocking visuals and comedic moments, was originally conceived as gratitude toward Solar for donating a collection of items to the show. Producers initially intended to treat her to a traditional hotpot feast but instead orchestrated an unexpected "bizarre food challenge." This surprising twist delivered heightened entertainment value and genuine surprise reactions that captivated viewers throughout the debut broadcast.
