South Korea’s love for kimchi is no secret. This traditional fermented cabbage dish is a staple in every Korean household and is deeply ingrained in the country’s culture. It is not just a side dish, but a symbol of national identity and pride. So, when the government announced on Wednesday that it will ensure the supply of 24,000 tonnes of cabbage from national stocks to support the upcoming peak kimchi-making season, it was met with great enthusiasm and relief.
The peak kimchi-making season, also known as “kimjang,” falls between November and December when the weather is cold enough for the fermentation process to take place. During this time, families come together to make large batches of kimchi to last them through the winter. It is a time-honored tradition that has been passed down for generations, and the government’s decision to support it is a testament to their commitment to preserving and promoting Korean culture.
The announcement was made by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, which stated that the 24,000 tonnes of cabbage will be supplied from national stocks to ensure a stable supply of the vegetable during the peak season. This move is in response to the concerns raised by farmers and consumers about the potential shortage of cabbage due to the heavy rains and typhoons that hit the country earlier this year.
The government’s decision has been met with widespread praise and appreciation from both farmers and consumers. Farmers, who were worried about their crops being damaged by the extreme weather conditions, can now breathe a sigh of relief knowing that their hard work will not go to waste. Consumers, on the other hand, can rest assured that they will be able to enjoy their favorite kimchi without any disruptions.
This is not the first time that the government has stepped in to support the kimchi industry. In 2018, they provided subsidies to farmers who were affected by the heatwave, and in 2019, they implemented a price stabilization policy to prevent the price of cabbage from skyrocketing. These measures have not only helped the farmers but also ensured that kimchi remains affordable for the general public.
The government’s support for the kimchi industry goes beyond just ensuring a stable supply of cabbage. They have also been actively promoting kimchi as a healthy and nutritious food. In 2013, kimchi was designated as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, and the government has been using this recognition to promote it as a global food. They have also been working towards developing new varieties of kimchi to cater to the changing tastes and preferences of consumers.
The decision to supply 24,000 tonnes of cabbage from national stocks is a clear indication of the government’s commitment to preserving and promoting Korean culture and supporting the agricultural sector. It is a win-win situation for both farmers and consumers, and it showcases the government’s proactive approach in addressing potential issues that may arise in the kimchi industry.
In conclusion, the government’s announcement to ensure the supply of 24,000 tonnes of cabbage for the upcoming peak kimchi-making season is a welcome move that has been met with great enthusiasm and appreciation. It not only supports the traditional practice of kimjang but also showcases the government’s dedication to preserving and promoting Korean culture. With this support, we can all look forward to enjoying our favorite kimchi dishes without any worries.
