As we wrapped up the fall semester, we witnessed one of the most amazing KDI School events: International Food Festival. This annual and much-anticipated event was a colorful and aromatic gathering where students celebrate the diversity within the school’s community by sharing traditional dishes from their homelands. It brought together students from various countries, each cooking and presenting traditional dishes that reflected the rich diversity within the KDIS community. The festival provided a unique opportunity for cultural exchange through food and lively performances, making it an unforgettable experience for all.

From vibrant displays of food to a surprise dance performance, International Food Festival was a feast for all the senses and a testament to KDI School’s commitment to fostering cultural exchange and unity.

A World of Cuisines at Each Booth

The event had participants from 27 countries forming 12 teams, with each team representing a specific cuisine. These 12 teams showcased their traditional cuisines, each with a unique theme and flavor profile. The booths were set up around the festival grounds, offering a journey through global cuisines:

- Heritage Plates and Global Gastronomy offered an international mix of classic dishes.

- Nomad Asia, Afriasia, and South Asia Flavor highlighted flavors from Asia and Africa.

- Cambodia's Village and Ghazakistan brought specific regional cuisines to life.

- Tanya Cuisine, United Plates of Vindoneko, Latin Taste, Central Spice, and Late Autumn provided a rich array of global specialties that captivated the taste buds of festival-goers.

Each team presented a truly unique dish with one-of-a-kind flavors. The booths were not only a feast for the palate but also for the eyes, as participants put extra effort into presenting their food with authenticity and creativity.

In addition to the main cultural booths, several stands offered popular Korean street foods, giving international students a chance to try local treats. A cotton candy booth was a big hit, with colorful clouds of spun sugar delighting festival-goers of all ages. These Korean street food offerings provided a taste of Korea’s own culinary culture, bridging the international themes of the festival with local flavors and enhancing the cultural exchange experience.

Among these booths, a special one grabbed everyone’s attention: aT (Korea Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Distribution Corporation). Established in 1967, the Korea Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Distribution Corporation aims to bridge the gap between agriculture and industry. In 2012, the company rebranded itself, focusing on reorganizing its differentiated and specialized business structure and functions, such as significantly strengthening its support functions. At the festival, the company’s booth offered gifts, juice, and BTS coffee, which attracted all ARMY students to try their coffee.

12 Teams, 3 Awards: Who Were the Winners?

It was a very tough yet delicious competition. Out of 12 teams, only 3 could win.

The competition offered three categories: The Best Hygiene and Safety Award, The Most Beautiful Dish Award, and The Best Combination Taste Award. The winners were determined through online voting by other students who tried the food.

The Winners:

- Central Spice won the Best Hygiene and Safety Award. This team set a high standard by meticulously paying attention to cleanliness and safe food handling. Their commitment to hygiene was highly praised and served as a model for other participants.

- The Most Beautiful Dish Award went to South Asia Flavor, whose intricate and colorful presentations truly captured the artistry of their cuisine. Their dishes were as visually captivating as they were delicious.

- The Best Combination Taste Award was awarded to United Plates of Vindoneko. Their booth delighted festival-goers with innovative flavor combinations that harmonized different cultural influences, creating a unique and memorable taste experience.

More Than Just Food

If you think the food festival was only about food, think again! The event offered much more than just culinary delights.

To keep the crowd entertained, a dance performance was organized by Valentina Blanovschi. The event took an unexpected turn when Valentina led a flash mob that caught everyone by surprise. As music filled the air, dancers gathered to perform a lively choreography, inspiring festival-goers to join in. This spontaneous burst of energy added a fun and engaging element to the festival, bringing attendees together through dance and laughter. The flash mob set the tone for the rest of the afternoon, with many students praising the performance as vibrant and surprising.

A Cherished Tradition

KDI School’s Food Festival was a feast of flavors, colors, and cultures, drawing participants and visitors from across the school to celebrate the rich diversity that defines the community. Through food, dance, and friendly competition, students bonded over shared experiences and learned more about each other’s heritage.

The Food Festival encapsulated KDI School’s vision of fostering global awareness and connection, making it a cherished tradition and a highlight of the school year.