Korea's national side dish takes center stage in The Kimchi Universe Series

The Korean Cultural Center Washington, D.C. (KCCDC) proudly presents The Kimchi Universe Series, a new three-part video series exploring Korea's iconic and quintessential food, Kimchi. The series launches on February 12 with the release of Part 1: Know Your Kimchi in celebration of the Korean Lunar New Year holiday, Seollal, which falls on the same day.

The series places kimchi firmly within the rich context of Korean culture, while also branching out to explore how non-Koreans are increasingly experiencing this unique fermented dish. Episodes include interviews with experts, tastings with everyday people, and workshops with kimchi creators in a short film documentary-style format. Part 1 focuses on the theme of people trying various kimchi varieties and their authentic reactions, Part 2 dives into the age old practice of making kimchi, and Part 3 explores the expanding world of kimchi beyond the traditional.

While kimchi has entered the global lexicon as an icon of Korean cuisine, few people grasp the breadth and depth of kimchi culture, including its hundred of variations, historical roots, health benefits, and notably its roles in collective social culture and regional identity.

Seollal, the first day of the traditional lunar calendar on which Part 1 launches, is one of Korea's most important traditional holidays and aligns closely with traditional Korean cuisine such as kimchi. Over the course of three days, it is a time for Korean families to reconnect and enjoy traditional foods and recreation together.

The Kimchi Universe Series launches on February 12 with Part 1: Know Your Kimchi available on the Korean Cultural Center Washington, D.C. website and social media platforms. Parts 2 and 3 will soon follow, airing in March and April respectively.