Airport security confiscating liquids and gels is a common sight around the world. However, at South Korea’s Incheon International Airport (ICN), security officials are battling a unique smuggling attempt: kimchi, CNN reports.
The fermented vegetable staple, soaked in its signature spicy sauce, is falling victim to the airport’s no-liquids rule.
Last year alone, ICN officials confiscated a staggering 10.7 tons of kimchi from passengers attempting to carry the popular side dish in their hand luggage, according to airport authorities. Pre-packaged kimchi, often stored in bottles or plastic bags filled with liquid, violates the international 100ml liquid limit for carry-on items.
The situation is so prevalent that a Korean travel influencer posted a YouTube video last year reminding travelers to pack their kimchi in checked luggage only. The video has since garnered over 1.2 million views, highlighting the widespread impact of the ban.
Kimchi isn’t the only culinary casualty. The airport also confiscated 10.5 tons of “jang” in 2023, a term encompassing a wide range of traditional fermented sauces and pastes, further emphasizing the challenges of preserving Korean culinary traditions while adhering to international security regulations.
According to airport officials, confiscated food items are either discarded or donated to local community welfare centers.
But the restrictions extend beyond the airport. In recent months, Korean Air, the nation’s flagship airline, discontinued serving instant ramyeon noodles to economy passengers on long-haul flights, citing increasing turbulence as a safety hazard when serving the hot, broth-filled snack.
The crackdown isn’t limited to Korean products either. Travelers bringing Trader Joe’s “Everything But the Bagel” seasoning mix into South Korea have also faced scrutiny from authorities. The popular American spice blend, a viral sensation on TikTok, has become a sought-after souvenir for travelers returning from the US.
However, the seasoning mix contains poppy seeds, an oilseed that is banned in South Korea. One South Korean blogger recounted bringing back 20 bottles of the seasoning only to have them confiscated upon arrival, complete with a yellow lock placed on her luggage.
The airport has responded by placing signs in both Korean and English throughout the terminal warning travelers about the ban on “Everything But the Bagel” seasoning mixes.
