Korean Embassy holds cooking class to deepen cultural ties with Ghana

By James Amoh Junior, GNA

Accra, April 30, GNA – The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Ghana has organised a Korean cuisine cooking class for selected chefs in Accra.

It is part of efforts to promote cultural exchange and deepen bilateral relations between Ghana and Korea.

The event, held at the Ambassador’s residence, brought together chefs from leading hotels and restaurants to experience authentic Korean culinary traditions.

Participants were taken through the preparation of two popular Korean dishes, Bulgogi and Japchae, during a comprehensive cooking demonstration, followed by a hands-on session where they prepared and tasted the meals themselves.

Ambassador Park Kyongsig said the initiative formed part of broader efforts to introduce authentic Korean cuisine to Ghanaian chefs and enhance appreciation of Korean culture.

He explained that although some restaurants in Accra served Korean dishes, the taste often differed from the original, hence the need to equip local chefs with the right knowledge and techniques to prepare authentic meals.

“As you are aware, the Korean wave is growing across the world, including interest in Korean food. We want to show authentic Korean dishes to chefs so they can serve them properly,” he said.

Ambassador Park noted that food played a critical role in understanding the culture and people of a country, adding that the initiative would help strengthen people-to-people relations between Ghana and Korea.

He said cultural exchange remained a key driver of stronger bilateral cooperation, including trade and investment between the two countries.

“Knowing about the culture, the dishes and recipes is very important. This exchange is the basis of our trade and future development,” he added.

The Ambassador disclosed that trade between Ghana and Korea had reached about 380 million US dollars, reflecting steady growth in economic relations, while approximately 20 Korean companies currently operate in Ghana, with many using the country as a base for expansion into the West African sub-region.

He expressed optimism that ongoing reforms in Ghana’s investment environment would attract more Korean businesses in the coming years.

A total of 20 chefs participated in the cooking class and expressed satisfaction with the experience, describing it as insightful and valuable in enhancing their understanding of Korean culinary traditions.

Some participants said the practical training would enable them to introduce more authentic Korean dishes on their menus, thereby broadening culinary options for customers in Ghana.

The Embassy reaffirmed its commitment to promoting Korean culture in Ghana and strengthening cooperation through similar initiatives aimed at fostering mutual understanding and partnership between the two countries.

GNA
Edited by George-Ramsey Benamba
April 30, 2026