The 3rd Korean Gastronomic Festival (K-Festival Gastronomico) took place on November 16-17 at San José’s National Park. (Yonhap)
MEXICO CITY, Nov. 21 (Korea Bizwire) – A Korean food festival held in San José, Costa Rica, drew significant attention, attracting over 20,000 attendees to celebrate the rich flavors and cultural heritage of Korea.
The 3rd Korean Gastronomic Festival (K-Festival Gastronomico) took place on November 16-17 at San José’s National Park, bringing a vibrant showcase of Korean cuisine and culture to the heart of Central America.
Organized by the Korean Embassy in Costa Rica and the San José City Hall, the event featured an array of culinary offerings, including bulgogi, gimbap, tteokbokki, and Korean-style hot dogs. Attendees also explored cultural exhibits, such as hanbok displays, Taekwondo demonstrations, K-pop performances, and traditional Korean calligraphy.
Support for the festival came from various local and international organizations, including the Korean diaspora, Hallyu fan clubs, and corporate sponsors like Samsung and BBQ Chicken. Volunteers and the local Korean community also played key roles in ensuring the event’s success.
Despite inclement weather, the festival saw robust participation. Jeon Keun-seok, Korea’s Ambassador to Costa Rica, expressed gratitude for the warm reception, stating, “The enthusiasm from the community, even in the rain, reflects the deep affection for Korean culture. We will continue to promote Korea’s charm through diverse events in the future.”
Diego Miranda Méndez, Mayor of San José, highlighted the festival’s broader significance. “This event embodies our commitment to embracing global cultures. It not only offered San José residents and visitors the richness of Korean culture but also contributed to the local economy,” he remarked in a press release.
The festival underscores Korea’s growing cultural influence worldwide and its ability to foster meaningful connections through food, art, and tradition.
Ashley Song (ashley@koreabizwire.com)
