KUWAIT: The Embassy of the Republic of Korea and Gulf University for Science & Technology (GUST) co-hosted the 2024 Korean Street Food Festival on the university’s campus on November 28, to celebrate the rich culinary traditions of South Korea, and the growing interest among Kuwaitis in Korean culture. The festival offered a rare opportunity to savor iconic street food loved by people in South Korea, such as gimbap, tteokbokki, bulgogi, and a variety of chicken dishes. Visitors also participated in kimchi making sessions during the event. Kimchi, a staple South Korean side dish consisting of salted and fermented vegetables, has been receiving interest from culinary enthusiasts in Kuwait.
The event attracted a diverse audience, including GUST faculty and students, guests from various nationalities, and representatives from the culinary industry. South Korean restaurants, such as Kim’s House, Korea Gwan, Seoulian, Sinjeon Tteokbokki, The Kimchi, and Thomas Bbokki, participated in the event, each bringing their unique touch to traditional Korean dishes.
During the event, South Korean Ambassador to Kuwait Chong-suk Park remarked: “Korean street food holds a special place in Korean culture. It’s not just about the food, but about the history that resonates with every dish. Through this festival, we present kimchi-making, a significant element of Korean cuisine. Experiencing the process will offer insights into the depth of Korean food. I hope you enjoy the unique atmosphere and the culinary journey.”
Mohammad Al-Haddad, Academic Affairs Leader at GUST, who spoke on behalf of the GUST president, highlighted the festival’s purpose of being a celebration of South Korean culture and a reflection of the strong ties between Kuwait and South Korea. “At GUST, we take pride in fostering cultural diversity and global connections, offering students and community meaningful opportunities to learn about the world,” he said.