By Raza Syed/Ruby Hyder
South Korea bursts with vibrant colors, cultural events, and festive excitement. As autumn leaves transform into brilliant shades of red and gold, the country awakens with a multitude of food festivals that provide a captivating glimpse into Korean traditions, arts, and culinary delights.
In an effort to showcase these rich traditions, a team of expert Korean chefs recently arrived in London to participate in the UK’s premier food festival, ‘Taste London 2024.’ Held annually in June, this festival features renowned chefs from around the world who present their native cuisines, offering festival-goers a diverse and delightful culinary experience.
The Taste of London Food Festival provides a delightful opportunity for food enthusiasts and businesses alike to indulge in an extraordinary celebration of gastronomy. Attendees can savor an array of exquisite dishes not only from London’s esteemed restaurants but also from around the globe, all conveniently gathered in one location. This event serves as a haven for those eager to explore the flavors of different cultures, with passionate chefs showcasing their country’s cuisine, creating a truly international feast.
This week, thousands of foodies flocked to Regent’s Park in London to experience the best of Korean cuisine and culture at the London Food Festival.
Returning for its second appearance at the event, the Taste of Korean Culture pavilion is an initiative supported by the Korean Ministry of Culture and Tourism. Mr. Kwon Jae Hwan, the Team Manager of the Korea Foundation for Culture and Ethics (KFCE), emphasized the significance of food as the first introduction to culture. He stated, ‘It’s how you consume a culture, how you understand the people.’ Mr. Kwon expressed his delight at the curiosity he observes when visitors approach their stand, eager to try and learn.
The initiative aims to showcase Korea’s unique and diverse culinary heritage, reflecting the pride of Korean people.
With over 4,000 visitors in the first two days, Ms. Kim Do-eun, Executive Chef, expressed her delight at the turnout. ‘We were here last year and loved the atmosphere—the warmth and welcoming spirit of everyone,’ she shared.
Following the success of 2023, this year’s Korean pavilion is even larger and has been serving a variety of national and regional dishes since the festival began on Wednesday. Visitors to the pavilion can also enjoy live cooking demonstrations, participate in a Korean wine ceremony, or sample tasty snacks.
The pavilion also aims to educate visitors about the thousands of ingredients grown across Korea and how they are used to transform lives. ‘We participated in Taste of Paris, and now in London, we’re showcasing what we’re doing in the region. Wherever we go, we prioritize locality and community, always bringing the flavors of the area,’ Ms. Kim explained.
For the London event, Ms. Kim Do-Eun and her team prepared several new food dishes based on her own 500-year-old recipe. Speaking about the recipe’s history, she told the London Post, ‘In the past, many books were vulnerable to fire, so our ancestors buried numerous books underground to protect them. Over time, these buried books were forgotten. However, one day, a significant flood occurred in Andong, uncovering the buried books. During this time, 30,000 books were discovered, including the SoowoonJapbang. Subsequently, our ancestors took great care of this book, and it has been passed down through generations, eventually coming into my possession, including my mother-in-law’s.’
Mr. Kwon remarked, ‘London is a huge melting pot of cultures and backgrounds. It’s the perfect backdrop to showcase cuisine and heritage. We have so much to offer, from traditional foods to high-end restaurants, but honestly, the homegrown traditional foods are some of the best in the world.’
Visitor Experiences
The London Food Festival has received enthusiastic reviews from visitors, both local and international. Many are captivated by the diverse array of food and the immersive cultural experiences on offer. Maria, a tourist from Spain, remarked, ‘The festival is an explosion of flavors and colors. I’ve never tasted anything quite like Korean cuisine.’
Local visitors also appreciate the festival’s role in preserving and promoting Korean culinary traditions. Ji-hoon, a resident of Seoul, shared, ‘The festival serves as a wonderful reminder of our rich heritage. It’s an opportunity for people of all ages to come together and celebrate our food and culture.’
The festival’s atmosphere is often described as lively and welcoming, with a strong sense of community. Families, friends, and solo travelers alike find themselves bonding over shared meals and cultural activities. The vibrant market stalls, the sound of laughter and music, and the sight of chefs at work all contribute to an unforgettable experience.
