The part of Seoul called Gimpo, near Gimpo International Airport has been attracting people with more than its runways with one neighborhood there spicing up the souvenir business to give visitors a real taste of Korea. For over 10-years, international tourists have been flocking to Kayang-dong around Gimpo International Airport to buy the hot spicy dish "kimchi." As a growing number of visitors get hooked on the unique taste of the fermented vegetable dish they're finding it convenient to go for a quick "kimchi" shopping before departure. The result Kayangdong has earned a new nickname; "Kimchi Town."


"Our customers are one-hundred percent Japanese. They buy a lot of kimchi as well as fermented seafood and seasoned lava," says one local vendor. Some 200 Japanese tourists drop by on a daily average as it's become a must-visit stop in their itinerary.
No need to worry about leaking or foul smell The air tight packaging makes it handy for travellers to carry Kimchi on long hour flights. Many Japanese kimchi-lovers don't mind the extra trip. After all, they say, once they get home, they realize their effort was worthwhile.


"I like the taste of Kimchi, so I want to bring it back home to share it with my family and friends," said one such tourist.


Business has been flourishing so far, however, shop owners are concerned things may not be the same in the near future. With Gimpo International Airport losing its function as the country's air traffic center this could mean kimchi vendors will have to set up shop around Inchon to stay afloat. "Many Kimchi store owners worry that they might see less costumers once the new international airport opens in Inchon," said one, but add they intend to come up with ways to stay in business.


(Arirang TV)