Source: The World Institute of Kimchi
Kimchi and Kimjang on the World’s Stage.
Kimchi is typically served for every meal in Korea, and at least one type of kimchi is always available. This verifies that kimchi symbolizes Korea’s food culture. Now, not only Korea but also the whole world is interested in kimchi, fabulous fermented food with various spices and vegetables, including cabbages, radishes, young radishes, red peppers, garlic, fermented seafood, etc.
KIMCHI AS AN INTERNATIONAL STANDARD
The 24th Codex Alimentarius Commission General Assembly authorized kimchi according to international standards due to its indigenous features differentiating it with other pickled vegetables abroad (International Standard No. CODEX STAN 223-2001). In particular, Korea’s one and only dish earned the official name “Kimchi” internationally by Codex Alimentarius Commission, and the world acknowledged Korea as the authorized owner of kimchi.
Standard for KIMCHI - CXS 223-2001
Credit: International Standard NO. CODEX Stan 223-2001
The kimjang tradition was registered as the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity unanimously by the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage at the 8th UNESCO Intangible Heritage Committee held in Baku, Azerbaijan on December 5, 2013. The official name registered at UNESCO was “Kimjang, Making and Sharing Kimchi.” Korea’s kimjang earned registration as the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity because of its universal value. Kimjang requires not only making but also sharing and collaboration.
