Born in South Korea, he was adopted by a Danish family at a young age, giving him a rich mix of cultural experiences that he has been able to incorporate into his cuisine.

Baumann began his culinary career in Denmark, working in some of the country's most prestigious restaurants. His training included a stint at the acclaimed Noma restaurant in Copenhagen. After a trip to San Sebastian, he reflected and realised that the food he was making with his friends and family was far from what he was making in restaurants, and decided to delve deeper into his roots. 

In 2016, Kristian Baumann opened his own restaurant, 108, which was awarded a Michelin star in 2017. After some time reconnecting with his culinary heritage in South Korea, Baumann created Koan. Koan opened on April 2023 and received 2 Michelin stars in 10 weeks. The chef is known for his creativity, attention to detail and commitment to sustainability.

The restaurant's menus are a reflection of Kristian's years of research in South Korea, from street kitchens to royal court cuisine. Each dish carries a purposeful cultural resonance, offering diners a taste of Korean heritage infused with Danish artistry.