As autumn sets into Gwangju, this mouthwatering tour was a welcome, gastronomic tutorial on fending off illness and the winter doldrums with one of the world’s healthiest foods. Naturally, kimchi took center stage, educating visitors on its powers against osteoporosis and colon cancer, along with its promotion of hearty blood circulation and sound digestion. Patrons were invited to “meet kimchi from all over Korea” as the exhibit recognized the “Eight Provincial Kimchis” and their singular, noteworthy ingredients. Though ample respect was given to the diverse kimchi dished-up throughout Korea, the festival paid close attention to the particular tastes of Gwangju, set in the Jeollanam-do province and known for its rich cuisine. Unique ingredients to the Gwangju recipe include juices drawn from fermented seafood, taking advantage of the region’s coastal locations. Universal ingredients to the kimchi recipe include: red peppers, garlic and the metabolism-boosting ginger. Adding particular excitement to the festival, the annual kimchi-making competition was a busy affair. Inside the great hall, women clad in the classic red kerchief and apron hurriedly showcased the art of dressing the fermented cabbage in the spicy paste. As local politicians, eager foreigners and the Mayor himself took part in this whirlwind production, these practiced women kept a watchful eye and offered tips to the newbies, as the press shutter-bugged wildly. For the excited Koreans, nothing could epitomize the power of kimchi more than a group of foreigners learning the craft and enjoying the spoils.
Kimchi sneaks up on flu goblin
Mayor Park holds a flu-beating club
North Korean kimchi
Kimchi-making contest
Later, at an outdoor booth labeled “Foreigners Making Kimchi” the group of over 20 foreigners gathered by the GIC, were given a formal kimchi lesson, and after making one head of cabbage each, packed them up in familiar plastic jars to take home and enjoy. It’s true that, upon arriving in South Korea, most foreigners are introduced to the local’s naturally inquisitive demeanor. The questions asked to many newcomers are usually a trifecta: “Where are you from?” “Are you an English teacher?” and, perhaps, most importantly – “Do you like kimchi?” These questions represent the openness of the Korean people, as well as the unpretentious pride they have in their country, and more specifically, in their illustrious kimchi. The Gwangju Kimchi Cultural Festival is surely commemorative of this fact, as the event seeks to educate as well as celebrate this healthful, flavorful dish. By Anna J. Martinez Photos by Doug Stuber and Anna J. Martinez
Kimchi master and students
Kimchi experts at work
Gwangju News November 2009
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