Korean Cuisine Takes Center Stage at the Korean Embassy in Tehran: A Cultural and Culinary Celebration
2025-12-29On November 27, the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Tehran hosted a unique cultural event that not only showcased the vibrant flavors of Korean cuisine but also fostered cross-cultural exchange. The K-Food Workshop, a special event designed for K-influencers and students from Tehran University’s foreign language program, became a platform for deepening understanding and appreciation of Korean food, culture, and traditions.
The event was part of an ongoing effort to strengthen ties between Iran and Korea, emphasizing the role of digital influencers in bridging cultural gaps. The journey to this event began with an exciting and engaging video-making contest. K-influencers were encouraged to demonstrate their culinary prowess by preparing their favorite Korean dishes and posting videos of their creations on social media platforms. The contest not only highlighted the global love for Korean cuisine but also showcased the growing influence of social media in spreading cultural awareness. After reviewing a myriad of creative entries, 20 K-influencers were selected to participate in the exclusive workshop.
The day kicked off with a warm breakfast, followed by a speech from His Excellency Kim Jun-pyo, the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Iran. Ambassador Kim expressed his appreciation for the participants' continued efforts to promote Korean culture, particularly the K-influencers who play a vital role in the global popularity of K-food. In his speech, the Ambassador shared a forward-looking vision for further cultural exchanges, proposing the establishment of a “Korean Language Major” at Tehran University. This initiative, he stated, would elevate the study of Korean language and culture beyond a second language program, offering students a more comprehensive and immersive experience.
The centerpiece of the workshop was a hands-on cooking session. Participants were divided into teams, each tasked with preparing two iconic Korean dishes: tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken). Under the expert guidance of the embassy's Korean chef, who warmly introduced herself, each team was given a recipe and the ingredients necessary to create their culinary masterpieces. The atmosphere was filled with the sound of sizzling, chopping, and the unmistakable scent of authentic Korean flavors. The teamwork among participants was evident as they collaborated to prepare the dishes, sharing techniques, and learning from each other.
As the cooking progressed, the embassy buzzed with excitement, with participants exchanging stories and experiences about Korean food and culture. The event underscored the role of food as a universal language that brings people together. Once the dishes were ready, the Korean chef and embassy staff tasted each group’s creations, carefully evaluating the flavors, presentation, and adherence to traditional recipes. The judging panel selected the winning group based on their culinary skills and teamwork.
Beyond the culinary experience, the workshop also featured a series of interactive Korean folk games, adding a playful element to the day’s activities. Participants were introduced to traditional games such as Yutnori, Jegichagi, Ddakji, and Tuho, offering a deeper dive into the cultural richness of Korea. These activities provided an opportunity for participants to experience the fun and charm of Korean leisure activities firsthand.
The event concluded with a celebration of creativity and culinary excellence. Five K-influencers, whose video submissions had garnered the most admiration from the judges, were awarded prizes by Ambassador Kim Jun-pyo. In addition, one cooking team was recognized for their outstanding performance in preparing tteokbokki and dakgalbi, demonstrating exemplary teamwork and culinary skill. The awards ceremony was followed by a group photo session, allowing participants to capture memories of a day filled with friendship, learning, and delicious food.
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