Kaeho Lee: "MFDS Undermining the Identity of Traditional Fermented Foods"

Traditional Foods Must Not Be Treated the Same as General Processed Foods
"Full Reconsideration of the Food Code Revision Needed"

Kaeho Lee, member of the Democratic Party of Korea.

Kaeho Lee, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea representing Damyang, Hampyeong, Yeonggwang, and Jangseong in South Jeolla Province, strongly criticized the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (hereinafter referred to as MFDS) during the National Assembly audit held on October 21 for its proposed revision of the Food Code. The revision seeks to classify traditional fermented foods such as kimchi and jang (fermented soybean products) in the same category as general processed foods. Lee warned that this revision policy could seriously undermine the unique cultural identity of the Korean people.

Lee pointed out that it is difficult to understand the MFDS's idea of grouping kimchi together with "processed agricultural products" such as chocolate and cocoa products, and of integrating traditionally made fermented soybean products like doenjang, ganjang, and meju with their modified counterparts.

He emphasized, "The kimjang culture was inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2013, and the tradition of making jang was also designated as UNESCO Intangible Heritage in 2024. These traditional fermented foods are more than just food items; they are symbolic cultural heritage of our people."

He continued, "Traditional fermented foods are not merely ingredients, but precious cultural heritage imbued with the wisdom and spirit of our ancestors. Treating these foods as equivalent to general processed foods is an act that devalues our unique food culture and historical significance," he asserted.

Lee stated, "Rather than pushing forward hastily with the Food Code revision, it is essential to approach the matter with caution by thoroughly gathering opinions from experts, industry stakeholders, and the public."

In response, Youkyung Oh, Commissioner of the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, said, "I deeply share your concerns. The current revision is still at the research stage, and we will continue to gather a wide range of opinions from the field and review the matter carefully going forward."