Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines Hosts Bibimbap Workshop to Celebrate Nutrition, Culture, and Community

(June 30, 2025) — A beloved Korean dish took center stage at the Korean Cultural Center (KCC) in the Philippines, as it hosted a vibrant and meaningful ‘Bibimbap Cooking Workshop’ on June 27, 2024, in celebration of Nutrition Month in July.

Led by Korean chef Lily Min, the event brought together culinary expertise, nutritional insight, and cultural exchange. The hands-on workshop was joined by representatives from key national organizations in the fields of nutrition and education, including the Department of Science and Technology – Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI), Philippine Society of Nutritionists-Dietitians (PSND), National Nutrition Council (NNC), Department of Education – School-Based Feeding Program (DepEd-SBFP), Philippine Association of Nutrition (PAN), University of Makati - College of Tourism and Hospitality Management (UMak-CTHM), and select members of the media.

The activity introduced participants to the art of preparing Bibimbap, a signature Korean dish known for its balance of rice, vegetables, protein, and flavorful sauces. True to the theme of adaptability and local relevance, the workshop included a delightful twist — the use of sayote, a familiar and widely available vegetable in the Philippines, showcasing how Korean cuisine can be customized using local ingredients.

“Bibimbap is more than just a delicious meal. It embodies the values of harmony, balance, and well-being. We hoped that this workshop is a good first step toward integrating Hansik, or traditional Korean food, into Filipino households in a way that’s practical, nutritious, and culturally enriching,” said KCC Director Kim Myeongjin.

You can also re-create the dish by following these steps:

This event marks the beginning of KCC’s campaign to promote Hansik as a healthy and accessible option for Filipino communities. By collaborating with experts and stakeholders from the nutrition and education sectors, KCC hopes to continue creating spaces where food becomes a bridge between cultures and a tool for community health.