Korea’s rich culinary heritage takes spotlight in ‘Sikgaek’ exhibit

The Korean Cultural Center (KCC) in the Philippines showcases Korea’s rich culinary heritage in the exhibit “Sikgaek: The Journey of Tasting Korea,” which opened last November 6.

*Photo Courtesy: Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines*

In collaboration with the National Asian Culture Center Foundation and Chonnam National University, the interactive exhibit is inspired by the Korean comic created by renowned Korean artist Hur Young-man. First published in 2002, the manhwa has since expanded into various forms of media.

“Sikgaek” refers to a traveler who travels across the country in search of food. The interactive exhibit follows the journey of chef Sungchan, the main character in the comic, as he explores five key ingredients of Korean cuisine: rice, kimchi, jang or fermented sauces and pastes, vegetables, and seafood.

What makes this exhibit special is that visitors become travelers, discovering the dedication of the people who prepared the food, the memories tied to each dish, and the stories of those who shared meals together.

Exploring the ‘Sikgaek’ exhibition

Visitors can begin their journey on the ground floor, where they will find Sungchan’s vegetable truck. Using AI, they can transform into their own Sikgaek-inspired characters and step right into the adventure.

After creating their character, visitors can head to the library, where they can follow the author’s archives and digital works through an interactive wall and library, discovering how the author brought the manhwa to life. The cartoonist personally visited these places, met local people, tasted their food, and recorded their stories.

As visitors continue through the building, they can read iconic quotes from the manhwa, featuring the characters’ most unforgettable lines. The complete series of the Sikgaek comic books by Hur Young-man features 27 volumes.

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Visitors can head to the third floor, where they can glimpse “hansang,” a complete traditional Korean meal served all at once. This area showcases signature dishes from the comic—rice, kimchi, seafood, fermented sauces, and vegetables—highlighting the harmony and balance of a traditional Korean meal.

They can explore the main exhibit on the fifth floor, where they can step into the world of “Sikgaek” and discover the five key ingredients from the comic. Through fun, interactive activities, they can uncover the stories behind each element and deepen their appreciation of Korea’s rich culinary heritage.

Visitors can finish the exhibit in a photo zone designed to resemble a traditional Korean alleyway, where they can capture memorable photos and immerse themselves in the atmosphere of Korea’s streets.

The goal at the end of the exhibit is to understand Korean food and culture—how every dish required dedication, hard work, and the life stories of the people who prepared it.

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Fostering cultural exchange between Korea and the Philippines

KCC Director Kim Myeongjin highlighted how the exhibit goes beyond showcasing Korea’s delicious cuisine, giving Filipino visitors a unique chance to experience Korean culture through its rich culinary traditions.

“Through this exhibition, we hope to offer visitors not only an enjoyable experience but also a deeper appreciation of hansik, or Korean cuisine, and its important role in Korean culture,” he said.

Park Sang-hee, director of the National Asian Culture Center Foundation, underscored the importance of how food connects two nations through shared cultural values and community spirit.

“We hope it will become an opportunity for Korea and the Philippines to better understand and appreciate each other’s culture and to explore new possibilities for cultural exchange,” he said.

“Although Korea and the Philippines have different cultures and traditions, we share a deep connection through our love of sharing food and our respect for family and community,” he added.

Professor Joo HaYoung from the Department of Fine Art at Chonnam National University emphasized the profound value of the exhibit, noting that the comic goes beyond its original form and storytelling medium.

“Korean food culture is being introduced within a new culture setting here in the Philippines since food carries the history and the way of life of society. This exhibition will go beyond simply introducing Korean food. It will become a place where different cultures can meet and connect through food,” she said.

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Furthermore, HaYoung added that students from the University will participate as exhibit guides and welcome visitors, making it a valuable opportunity to put what they have learned into practice in an international setting.

Mariel Jasmine Nini, head of the International Cultural Affairs Office of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, expressed gratitude for the deepening friendship between the Philippines and Korea.

“We look forward to more opportunities to work together in celebrating our shared commitment in fostering cultural understanding, friendship, and cooperation,” she said.

During the opening ceremony on November 5, guests took part in a Kimchi workshop, where they got a firsthand look at how Koreans typically make the famous side dish.

The “Sikgaek: The Journey of Tasting Korea” will run until February 27, 2027, Mondays to Fridays, from 9 a.m to 4 p.m. There is no entrance fee, and prior registration is required.