'Taste-K' Korean food day welcomes foreigners
Traditional Korean musicians perform during a Taste-K event at Philobar in Wangsimni, Seoul, in November / Courtesy of John Redmond
By John Redmond
Foreigners are invited to sample and cook traditional Korean foods and beverages in Chuncheon, Friday.
Under the banner of “Taste-K” the event presents the market diversification of Korean agricultural and seafood products, selecting citizens of certain strategic countries to participate.
Focusing on people from countries in Africa, Europe, South America and Central Asia, participants sample varieties of meat, fish and beverages and then rate them based on flavor.
Participants are also asked to compare the Korean foods with similar dishes from their own country.
The first food tasting was held six weeks ago at Wangsimni in eastern Seoul and focused on meat and tofu. There were also vegetarian and halal options.
Participants were also treated to a traditional Korean music concert.
A second beverage tasting, showcasing traditional Korean beverages including makgeolli and a range of organic soju, took place at Yangjae in southern Seoul the following week.
This next tour will focus on dakgalbi, a chicken dish served either as a spicy stew or grilled, which has become one of the most popular Korean delicacies among non-Koreans.
The group leaves Seoul and travels to Wonpyeong Farmstay where the tasting and cooking event will be part of the lunch program.
Part of the program also includes a tour of the town and a dinner featuring local food.
The group will leave from Koreana Hotel in central Seoul at 8 a.m. The drive to Chuncheon takes approximately one hour.
Following the day’s activities participants will return to Seoul at 6 p.m.
Taste-K is an independent program.
Email taste-k@naver.com or visit facebook.com/groups/attastek for more information.