K-food is gaining popularity in the United States, with 12 states and cities, including California, designating Kimchi Day
South Korea’s Minister of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs, Song Miryung, met with the U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Korea, Philip S. Goldberg. During the meeting, Minister Song requested the U.S. government’s attention and cooperation in expanding the exports of Korean agri-food products to the U.S. market. The two officials also discussed the expansion of bilateral trade and future-oriented cooperation in the agri-food products sector.
Ambassador Goldberg noted that the exchange of food culture between the two countries is more vibrant than ever. He mentioned that K-food is gaining popularity in the United States, with 12 states and cities, including California, designating Kimchi Day. Since assuming office as Ambassador to the Republic of Korea in July 2022, Goldberg has demonstrated a deep interest in Korean dishes and food culture. In November of last year, he even participated in a kimchi-making event with Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol.
In response, Minister Song expressed deep appreciation to Ambassador Goldberg for his interest in Korean food and culture. She requested the U.S. government’s cooperation on various fronts so that Korean food culture and K-food products, including Korean ramen, kimchi, and frozen kimbap, could reach more people across the U.S.
Furthermore, Minister Song and Ambassador Goldberg shared the view that policy cooperation is necessary to address the global food crisis and climate change. Minister Song explained the Korean government’s policies to transition to low-carbon agriculture and expressed the Korean government’s intention to join the SPG Coalition, which consists of approximately 20 countries, including the U.S. and the EU member states.
