Jeollanam-do (전라남도) is a region celebrated for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It boasts lush farmlands, pristine coastlines, and a deep culinary tradition that reflects the harmony between its fertile land and abundant seas. From fresh seafood to fermented delicacies and hearty grains, the region has long been a culinary powerhouse, shaping Korea’s gastronomic identity. Jeollanam-do is where ancient food traditions meet modern innovation, creating a vibrant and diverse food culture. This region's culinary offerings are not just about sustenance. They tell stories of history, craftsmanship, and a deep respect for nature.
The giveaway event was organized by the Jeollanam-do Europe Office branch in Germany and aimed to give three packages to three winners to enjoy delicious treats from Jeollanam-do this Christmas. Winning a giveaway featuring Jeollanam-do’s food products offered me a unique opportunity to experience the flavors and traditions of this remarkable part of Korea, even from afar.
Opening the box, I could see illustrations of different locations in Jeollanam-do. The first thing that caught my eye was the postcard. This is a picture of the green tea fields in Boseong. This region grows the most tea and is called the “home of Korean tea.”
On the back of the postcard, Jeollanam-do Europe Team left me a warm message for winning this box. I was surprised by how many dishes I was able to receive. In addition, I received a scarf inscribed with Hangul writings, a magnet with the Jeollanam-do logo, and 2 books introducing the food and locations of the region.
Inside the box, I found cooking ingredients, as well as drinks. These include: crispy squid, fried seaweed, sea salt & green tea flavoured seaweed, kimchi flavoured seaweed, seaweed salad, greea tea powder, korean pear juice, seaweed ade with calamansi flavor and kimbap seaweed. The product packaging looks very good and the design is modern, perfectly presenting the delicacies of the region. Most of the dishes are familiar to me, except for the seaweed salad. I haven’t tried cooking it yet, but it will be a challenge. My favorite products are the korean pear juice and green tea powder, but I can’t wait to use them all in trying to prepare new dishes.
The last things I discovered in the box were two books: “A Journey To Find Your True Self: Templestay” and “Jeollanam-do Halal Gourmet Tour”.
In the first book I discovered Templestay Programs like Chadam (Conversation over Tea with a Monk), types of Templestay, how to make a reservation for templestay, various temples and a Templestay O&A. One temple that caught my attention was Seonamsa Temple. With an age of almost 1500 years, the temple is recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Named a “Treasure House Mountain Temple”, it welcomes you through a lush green forest of Mt. Jogyesan. At the temple, you can find the Seungseongyo Bridge (Treasure No.400) and a 600 years old pink plum tree (Natural Monument No. 488).
The second book introduces attractions and restaurants in Yeosu, Suncheon, Boseong, Mokpo, Shinan, and Damyang. Damyang fascinated me with its beautiful Bamboo Farm. It opened in 2003 and is located near Seonginsan Mountain. Along the 2.2 km of trail, you can walk along eight themed paths, including Unsudaetong-gil, Jukmagou-gil, and Philoshoper’s Path.
I am very happy to won this giveaway and to have the opportunity to taste these Korean products. Jeollanam-do Europe Office has fulfilled its goal of sharing delicacies with people who are passionate about Korean culture and food. I am looking forward to visiting Jeollanam-do and being able to live these experiences in real life. Until then, I will try to recreate the dishes at home.
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