admin In a delectable celebration of Korea’s rich culinary heritage, the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corp. has officially introduced “Global Kimchi Day” during the Buy Korean Food trade fair in Seoul. This landmark declaration, crafted in collaboration with Korean food buyers and foreign diplomats, aims to elevate international awareness of the iconic Korean dish.
A Global Affair: Ambassadors and Buyers Unite to Promote Kimchi Worldwide
Under the patronage of the state-run food trade agency, aT, November 22 has been celebrated as Kimchi Day since the revision of the Kimchi Industry Promotion Act in February 2020. With aspirations for global recognition, aT has actively engaged with foreign supporters, including buyers from the UK, the US, Japan, Vietnam, and Taiwan, designating them as goodwill ambassadors.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from ambassadors and diplomats representing seven countries, including Argentina, Belarus, Honduras, and Venezuela. Notably, the occasion also marked the inauguration of the Global Kimchi Forum, a consultative body fostering voluntary cooperation worldwide to encourage the adoption of Kimchi Day across the globe.
Emphasising on the Importance of Kimchi Day
Kim Chun-jin, CEO of aT, expressed the profound significance of the global designation, stating, “The global designation of Kimchi Day is an opportunity to confirm that the popularity and status of kimchi have increased worldwide, and also an opportunity to inform the international community that Korea is the suzerain state of kimchi.” He emphasised the event’s role in showcasing the excellence and value of kimchi to the world, promoting the dish’s health benefits on a global scale.
Kimchi, a traditional Korean side dish made from fermented vegetables, typically cabbage or radishes, seasoned with chilli peppers and garlic, holds a special place in Korean culture. Its unique taste, coupled with potential health benefits from fermentation, has contributed to its growing popularity beyond Korea’s borders. This inaugural “Global Kimchi Day” signifies a concerted effort to share this cultural and culinary treasure with the world, solidifying Korea’s position as the ultimate authority on kimchi. The event seeks to further establish the global prominence of kimchi, not merely as a dish but as a cultural symbol representing Korea’s culinary excellence on the world stage.
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