On November 16, the second China-Korea Culinary and Cultural Exchange was held at the 579 Baigong Hub in Licheng District, Jinan. With the theme “Savoring China-Korea Cuisine, Promoting Trade Cooperation,” the event brought together 21 Chinese and Korean businesses, featuring 25 themed booths that showcased authentic Korean delicacies and Licheng’s signature products. Through culinary demonstrations—such as making kimchi pancakes, dumplings, and snow fungus soup—the event aimed to foster mutual understanding, strengthen friendships, and boost collaboration in trade, culture, and other fields.

Korean exhibitors presented traditional foods such as kimchi, soju, and snacks, along with lifestyle products like cosmetics and shapewear. Meanwhile, Licheng District highlighted local specialties, including Tangwang Chinese cabbage, Jiujutong dumplings, Caishi golden ear mushrooms, Xingniu milk from the Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, and Hongjitang ejiao (donkey-hide gelatin).

The event provided a dynamic platform for businesses from both countries to engage in in-depth discussions, while local citizens actively participated in tastings, experiencing the cultural exchange through the universal language of food. Liang Jijung, president of the Jinan Korean Chamber of Commerce, prepared traditional Korean kimchi pancakes on-site, inviting attendees and guests to enjoy the dish together.

China and Korea both have long-standing culinary traditions, each with its own unique characteristics. Today’s exhibition featured not only traditional Chinese foods like dumplings but also products distinct to Licheng. Through tastings and exchanges, we’ve experienced the differences in our food cultures and gained a deeper understanding of Licheng’s food enterprises. I hope similar events continue in the future to further enhance exchanges between Chinese and Korean businesses and cultures,” said Liang Jijung.

Ren Yuqin, president of the Jinan Licheng Chapter of the China Chamber of International Commerce, highlighted the event's significance:“Licheng, as an important central district in Jinan, is committed to fostering international exchanges and cooperation. The district’s Trade Promotion Council serves as a bridge linking government, businesses, and resources, facilitating supply and demand. Through this event, we hope to provide a platform for exchange and cooperation, explore new business opportunities, and encourage more Korean friends to choose Jinan and Licheng.”

The successful conclusion of this year’s China-Korea Culinary and Cultural Exchange not only offered businesses from both countries a stage to showcase and share their culinary traditions but also infused fresh vitality into bilateral cultural and trade collaborations.