Korean Cuisine Gains Popularity Among UK Food Lovers
Korean cuisine has seen a remarkable rise in popularity among food lovers in the UK. This trend is exemplified by recent cooking classes and the growing availability of Korean ingredients in supermarkets. Central to this culinary movement is kimchi, a traditional Korean dish made from fermented cabbage, which has become synonymous with Korean dining culture.
The Growing Appeal of Korean Cuisine
Judy Joo, a Korean-American chef, has been instrumental in introducing Korean flavors to British palates. During her recent kimchi-making class in London, attendees learned the intricate process involved in creating this iconic dish. Joo highlights kimchi as “the cornerstone of Korean cuisine,” which is traditionally consumed daily in Korea.
The Influence of Korean Culture
Interest in Korean food has flourished alongside the global “K-wave,” encompassing music, fashion, and television. In 2009, the South Korean government initiated the “Global Hansik” campaign to boost awareness of Korean cuisine globally. This campaign has led to an increased presence of Korean food in major cities.
- In the UK, searches for “Korean BBQ” on Waitrose’s website have surged over 60% year on year.
- Sales of gochujang paste have jumped by over 70%.
- Kimchi is among the fastest-growing international products in British supermarkets.
Korean Flavors with a Local Touch
Chefs like Joo Won, who owns Cálong in North London, are redefining Korean cuisine by adapting traditional recipes to local British ingredients. Despite the challenges of sourcing authentic components, chefs are finding ways to incorporate Korean techniques and flavors into their dishes.
Exploring the Essence of Korean Dining
Food is a significant part of Korean culture, reflecting values such as jeong, which embodies warmth and connection. Yoonsun Chang, who operates a Korean supper club, emphasizes the importance of nurturing meaningful relationships through shared meals. Her dining experiences focus on offering an authentic glimpse into everyday Korean life.
A rising number of British diners are seeking out the subtler aspects of Korean culture, moving beyond the more widely recognized elements like K-pop and K-dramas. This interest extends to the authenticity of Korean dishes served in various establishments, where the use of genuine kimchi is increasingly common.
Social Media Driving Engagement
The fascination with Korean cuisine has also been fueled by social media. Analysis by Bibigo indicates a significant increase in TikTok posts by UK users discussing Korean food, rising from under 10,000 in 2023 to over 17,000 by 2025.
The Future of Korean Cuisine in the UK
As the landscape of culinary exploration continues to evolve, Korean cuisine is gradually claiming its place in the UK’s diverse food scene. With more restaurants opening and a steady influx of information and resources, the journey of Korean food in Britain appears to be just beginning. While it remains an emerging cuisine, it is well on its way to becoming a staple in everyday dining.
