Traditional Korean Food and Culture and Methods of Preservation

With the global rise in popularity of Korean pop groups like BTS and Blackpink, along with Korean dramas and films, interest in Korea has increased significantly.

Furthermore, the Korean Wave's influence extends beyond music and dramas, impacting various fields such as fashion, beauty, and cuisine.

Moreover, Korea has rapidly transformed from the ashes of war to become one of the most economically successful nations globally. This remarkable economic development has sparked widespread curiosity about Korea's development model and strategies.

Due to these various factors, international interest in Korea continues to grow. Let's take a brief look at some frequently asked questions about Korea.

1. What are some traditional Korean dishes?

Traditional Korean cuisine reflects the region's history, culture, and natural environment. It offers a diverse range of flavors and nutrients. Here are some representative examples of traditional Korean dishes.

• Kimchi (Kimchi): A fermented vegetable dish, primarily using Napa cabbage and radish, seasoned with various spices including red pepper flakes, garlic, and ginger. There are numerous types of kimchi, and it's an indispensable part of Korean meals.
• Bibimbap (Bibimbap): A dish consisting of rice topped with an array of vegetables, meat (usually beef), an egg, and gochujang (Korean chili paste), all mixed together. It's a nutritionally balanced meal, and ingredients can be adjusted to personal taste, making it a popular choice.
• Bulgogi (Bulgogi): Thinly sliced beef marinated with soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and other seasonings, then grilled. It's one of Korea's most iconic meat dishes, characterized by its tender and sweet flavor.
• Samgyeopsal (Samgyeopsal): Pork belly grilled and enjoyed as a simple yet delicious dish. It's even more flavorful when wrapped in lettuce leaves with ssamjang (a Korean dipping sauce), garlic, and other side dishes.
• Doenjang Jjigae (Doenjang Jjigae): A stew made with doenjang (Korean soybean paste) as the main ingredient. Various vegetables, seafood, or meat are added and simmered together. Its rich flavor and abundant nutrients make it a common dish on Korean tables.
• Galbi (Galbi): Beef or pork ribs seasoned and grilled. Yangnyeom galbi, in particular, is known for its sweet and savory taste.
• Gimbap (Gimbap): A dish made with rice and various ingredients (pickled radish, spinach, carrots, egg, etc.) rolled in dried seaweed and sliced. Its convenience makes it a popular choice for picnics and outings.
• Sundubu Jjigae (Sundubu Jjigae): A spicy stew with soft sundubu (soft tofu) as its main ingredient. Seafood, meat, and various vegetables are added to enhance the flavor.

Beyond these examples, Korea boasts a vast array of traditional dishes, with many regional specialties. Korean traditional cuisine emphasizes not only taste but also nutritional balance, contributing to a healthy dietary lifestyle.

2. How are Korean culture and traditions preserved?

Korean culture and traditions are preserved through a variety of methods. These preservation efforts involve the participation of the government, local communities, and individuals, manifesting in numerous forms.

• Cultural Heritage Protection: Korea has a system for legally protecting cultural heritage, including nationally designated and locally designated cultural properties. These cultural properties encompass historical buildings, archaeological sites, and intangible cultural heritage. The government strives to preserve, restore, and maintain them.
• Intangible Cultural Heritage Succession: Korea places significant emphasis on the succession of intangible cultural heritage. This includes traditional music, dance, crafts, and rituals. To achieve this, the government designates individuals known as Human Cultural Properties, providing support for them to pass on their skills and knowledge to future generations.
• Transmission through Education: Korean history and traditions are incorporated into the school curriculum, enabling children and adolescents to learn and understand Korean culture and traditions naturally. Traditional culture schools and cultural centers also offer programs where people can learn various traditional arts and crafts.
• Festivals and Events: Various traditional festivals and events are held regularly throughout the country, providing opportunities to experience and enjoy traditional culture. Traditional holidays like Seollal (Lunar New Year), Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving), and Jeongwol Daeboreum (First Full Moon of the Lunar Year) are important occasions to experience Korean culture and traditions.
• Utilizing Digital Technology: Recently, efforts to digitize cultural heritage and introduce Korean culture and traditions to a wider audience using digital technology have become increasingly active. Virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and online exhibitions are just some of the ways in which accessibility is enhanced.

Through these efforts, Korean culture and traditions continue to be recognized and valued in modern society, ensuring their preservation and transmission for generations to come.