India-Korea Food Culture Exchange Program
The Embassy of India, in collaboration with the Korean Food Promotion Institute (KFPI), celebrated the inauguration of the Korea-India Food Culture Exchange Program at the Hansik Space E:eum at KFPI on 17 November 2023. The event was organized as part of SARANG, the annual flagship cultural program organized by the Embassy of India.
Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador of India Amit Kumar conveyed that this event, which also commemorates the 50 years of our diplomatic relations, will foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of our respective cultures. He underlined that Indian cuisine is renowned for its diverse flavors, aromatic spices, and mouth-watering street food delicacies. The event aims to showcase the unique and delectable street food offerings from various regions of India. He also conveyed gratitude to KFPI for their support and collaboration in making this event possible. Mr Kim Dae-kyun, Secretary General, KFPI said that both India and Korea share a rich culinary heritage, and this event serves as an apt forum to facilitate a deeper understanding of each other's culture. Mr Yang Joo-pil, Director General, MAFRA, conveyed that the food cultural exchange program will contribute to strengthening public-private exchange and cooperation to strengthen the culinary industry and its influence.
Ms. Yim Kyeong-sook, KFPI President along with other Korean dignitaries from different areas of work, namely Chairman Lee Yong-joon, Sejong Institute; Mr Kim Jong-Chul, DG, MOTIE; Ms Sohn Jie-Ae, Ambassador for Cultural Cooperation, MOFA; Mr Kim Byung-kwan, Chairman, KOIMA and others, attended the event.
Captivating cultural performances were performed by Korean artists on Gyeonggi Folk Music and SVCC teacher on Kathak, a prominent ancient Indian classical dance.
From the savory and crispy samosas, to the spicy and tangy pav bhaji, to the mouth-watering galouti kebabs and the sweet delights of jalebi and gajar halwa, the Embassy curated a very special menu that captures the essence of Indian street food culture. Korean delights featured green onion pancake, Mung bean pancake, Amond Dakgangjeong, Gimbap, wild green riceball, Tteokgalbi, Japchae, Gimbugak, and Sujeonggwa.
As part of the Korea-India Food Culture Exchange, a cooking class was also held on 17 November 2023, at 12:00 p.m., featuring India's Vada pav and Korea's Bulgogi gimbab, Tteokbokki. Chef Ms. Shamita Poojari demonstrated Indian cuisine, while Chef Ms. Kim Da-ea showcased Korean culinary delights. Participants had the opportunity to learn and savor the art of cooking from both cultures.
Under this Culural Exchange Progrmme, an exhibition of Indian food products, books on Indian cuisines, Indian musical instruments and comparative wall of Indian and Korean Street Food is being displayed at KFPI from November 14 to December 31, 2023. Korean visitors interested in Indian cuisine and food may visit. Admission is free for all visitors.
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