The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) Sydney Office, in partnership with Korean Air, has hosted a vibrant culinary famil aimed at inspiring Australian travel agents to craft food-focused Korean itineraries.
Held from 3 to 11 May 2025, the Korea Foodie Famil took a group of travel trade professionals through Seoul, Jeonju, Suncheon and Yeosu, showcasing the depth and diversity of Korea’s regional cuisines. Participants included representatives from The Travel Corporation, Crooked Compass, Tomato Travel, Ignite Travel Group, Inspiring Vacations and Encounter Travel.
Food as a gateway to culture and connection
From Seoul’s street food stalls to Jeonju’s comfort classics and Yeosu’s coastal seafood markets, the famil celebrated Korean food beyond the staples of BBQ and fried chicken. Highlights included bibimbap, kongnamul gukbap, spicy tteokbokki, and hotteok.
A standout moment was a visit to Baekyangsa Temple, where renowned monk and Netflix Chef’s Table star Jeong Kwan introduced the group to her philosophy of temple cuisine. The experience featured handmade vegan dishes, a peaceful tea ceremony and a meditative sound healing session.
Culinary immersion meets cultural discovery
Beyond food, the itinerary blended hands-on cultural encounters, including hanbok dress-ups in Jeonju’s heritage village, a visit to Suncheon’s UNESCO-listed Naganeupseong Folk Village, and the royal guard ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul. Guests also stayed in traditional hanok-style accommodation for an immersive cultural experience.
“This famil was about more than just eating great food,” said Kellie Goggins, Marketing Manager at KTO Sydney.
“It was about connecting flavours with stories and highlighting Korea’s less-explored regions like Suncheon and Yeosu.”
Santoso Handojo of Tomato Travel added, “Very memorable. I especially appreciated the chance to explore unique local experiences and authentic Korean delicacies. Looking forward to creating similar tours.”
