Jumeokbap, or fist rice, has become a viral global sensation. But do you know its surprising backstory in the city of Gwangju?
Jung again gathered a team of volunteers to make jumeokbap in 2001 for the city’s laborers and 5.18 survivors—this time to acknowledge the lasting effects of the financial crisis while honoring the legacy of the democratic uprisings. Since then, each May, the group has made fist rice to express gratitude to those who fought back against an oppressive regime.
Recognizing the powerful symbolism of jumeokbap, Gwangju city officials designated the dish as one of the city’sin 2019. The government also provided financial support to new and existing restaurants seeking to serve jumeokbap. Though Jung was glad to see jumeokbap elevated as a hallmark of Gwangju’s resilience and unity, she worried that the deeper meaning of the food itself might get lost in the city’s initiatives to commercialize it.
Local chefs like Im Hyun-sook seem to have found a balance between historical integrity and innovation. Im was in fifth grade during the turmoil of 5.18, crouching in her home as bullets flew outside. After recently inheriting her mother’s restaurant, Im wanted to pay homage to 5.18 by adding jumeokbap to her menu. She developed new renditions with nutrition and taste in mind, augmenting the plain rice balls of 1980 with ingredients like dried anchovies, crumbled walnuts, and chopped beets.
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Food allergies vs. food intolerance: what's the difference?News 5's Homa Bash talks to Dr. Sam Friedlander, allergist and immunologist with University Hospitals regarding the difference between food allergies and food intolerance.
Read more »
Digital Tip Jars: New tipping trend has customers sweating it out at checkout counterA new checkout trend is sweeping across America, making for an increasingly awkward experience: digital tip jars.
Read more »
Seattle weather: Arctic blast cools temps, sparks lowland snowDress in warm layers this week – a cold front is sweeping through Western Washington today. FOX13
Read more »
China reports first Covid deaths in weeks as virus surgesChina reports its first Covid-related deaths in weeks amid rising doubts over whether the official count was capturing the full toll of a disease.
Read more »
48 Homemade Food Gifts for the HolidaysOur favorite holiday gifts are thoughtful, homemade, and most importantly, edible!
Read more »