Introduction: Hansik, or South Korean cuisine, is celebrated worldwide for its exceptional use of fresh, local,              and seasonal ingredients to create a wide variety of delicious dishes enjoyed with family and friends. In 2004,            the World Health Organization selected Hansik as a 'model' diet for its nutritional balance. 

 Notably, the staple Korean dish, Kimchi, was chosen as one of the five healthiest foods in the world. In 2017, the UN Food and  Agriculture Organization ranked South Korea among the countries with the lowest obesity rates in major    developed nations, with only one in twenty citizens being obese.

Korean Food Culture: Korean dining etiquette emphasizes respect for elders and the dignity of food.

● Eat Once Served: Despite a busy schedule, start eating immediately when the food is served.

● Eating with Elders: The older person picks up the spoon first, followed by the younger person. When drinking,        the elder pours for the younger, and the younger person faces away from the elder.

● Respectful Eating: Avoid dropping eating utensils, hitting the tray with them, and sighing. Also, avoid blowing hot  food with your mouth.

● Group Dining: When eating with others do not put down your spoon and get up first or put food-soaked spoons into shared dishes.

We are excited to introduce a variety of Korean dishes and recipes to the participants of our cooking contest and to all K-food culture enthusiasts. Discover the rich diversity of Korean food, including detailed recipes, unique flavors,       historical backgrounds, cooking styles, and the special occasions for which each dish is traditionally prepared.

We hope these materials will be valuable to participants passionate about our contest, and we eagerly look forward to seeing their results.