National Kimchi Day: A Celebration of Culture and Flavor
National Kimchi Day is a special day dedicated to honoring kimchi, a traditional Korean dish made of fermented vegetables, typically napa cabbage and radishes, seasoned with a variety of spices. This day not only celebrates the culinary heritage of Korea but also highlights the cultural significance and health benefits of this beloved dish.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: November 22
- Tagged as: Food & Drink
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalKimchiDay
- When was it founded?: 2020 in South Korea
- Who founded it?: The South Korean government
History of National Kimchi Day
Kimchi has been a staple in Korean cuisine for over 2,000 years. The tradition of kimjang—preparing large quantities of kimchi for winter—has been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. National Kimchi Day was first established in South Korea in 2020 to celebrate this iconic dish and its global influence. The date, November 22, symbolizes the 11 main ingredients and the 22 health benefits associated with kimchi.
In recent years, the celebration has spread beyond Korea, with U.S. states like California, Virginia, and Maryland also recognizing November 22 as Kimchi Day.
Timeline
- 2,000+ years ago: Kimchi originates during Korea’s Three Kingdoms period.
- 2013: UNESCO recognizes kimjang as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.
- 2020: South Korea officially designates November 22 as National Kimchi Day.
- 2021: California becomes the first U.S. state to recognize Kimchi Day.
- 2023: Bipartisan resolution introduced in the U.S. Congress to designate National Kimchi Day.
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | November 22 | Saturday |
| 2026 | November 22 | Sunday |
| 2027 | November 22 | Monday |
Observed
National Kimchi Day is observed with events that celebrate Korean culture, including kimchi-making workshops (kimjang), educational programs about its history and health benefits, and community feasts featuring various types of kimchi.
Fun Facts About Kimchi
- There are over 200 varieties of kimchi.
- Kimchi is rich in probiotics and vitamins A, C, and K.
- During the Vietnam War, South Korean soldiers requested kimchi to boost morale.
- Special refrigerators are designed just for storing kimchi in Korean households.
Quiz
- What is the main ingredient in traditional kimchi?
- Which organization recognized kimjang as cultural heritage?
- What does November 22 symbolize for National Kimchi Day?
(Answers: Napa cabbage; UNESCO; 11 ingredients and 22 health benefits)
FAQs
Q: Is kimchi vegan?
A: Traditional kimchi often contains fish sauce or shrimp paste, but vegan versions are widely available.
Q: Why is kimchi good for health?
A: It contains probiotics that aid digestion and nutrients that boost immunity.
Q: How long does it take to ferment kimchi?
A: It can take anywhere from a few days to several months, depending on preference.
Related
- International Fermented Foods Day
- Korean Culture Week
- UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Days