By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo

Lotte Hotel & Resort announced on Nov. 24 that it hosted a “Kimchi Day Diplomatic Luncheon” at Signiel Seoul on Nov. 21, inviting ambassadors from over 20 countries including Canada, New Zealand, and Thailand.

This event was organized to widely share the history and significance of kimchi, Korea's representative food, and to expand private-sector exchanges and friendly relations between nations.

The event featured a lecture on the types and history of kimchi, along with a menu themed ‘Kimchi Harmonizing with Each Country's Cuisine’.

Modern reinterpretations of kimchi were showcased, including tacos with cabbage kimchi, tarakjuk (rice porridge) enhanced with aged kkakdugi (cubed radish kimchi), and mushroom risotto served with baekkimchi (white kimchi) and bulgogi.

A kimjang contest allowed attendees to personally make kimchi, providing a hands-on experience of kimjang culture.

A Lotte Hotel & Resort representative stated, “This event confirmed that food serves as a vital medium for mutual understanding and communication between nations,” adding, “We will continue to fulfill our role in private diplomacy by consistently presenting programs that promote Korean food culture.”