Snapshots of vibrant Asian kitchens and cuisines

A photo from Sri Lanka by Jung Yong-il in the “Dreaming Kitchen - Flavor of Asia” photography exhibition. Provided by the organizer

Korea is slowly growing into a multicultural society with a significant portion of the Asian population represented in the local foreign community.

While there are many ways of getting to know a foreign culture, the practice of breaking bread can give us a unique insight.

The “Dreaming Kitchen - Flavor of Asia” photography exhibition offers a glimpse into different Asian cuisines.

The Asia-Pacific Center of Education for International Understanding, a part of Unesco, is hosting the biggest exhibition of photographs ever held in Korea. On display are 290 photos covering 12 nations.

While the basic elements of culinary art are the same, the details of kitchens speak volumes about a specific culture, religion and customs. As such, the photo exhibits provide unfamiliar yet tasty snapshots of diverse Asian food cultures.

The exhibition, which is on display from Aug. 6 to 27 at the Korea Foundation Cultural Center Gallery in Sunhwa-dong, is divided into four sections.

“Dreaming Kitchen” present ordinary images of kitchens and people preparing and eating meals. “Farming on Earth” reveals the most important and staple food in Asian culture, rice farming.

“Flavors of Life, Snack Time” illustrates vibrant aspects of food culture. “Ancient Futures” focuses on ethnic minorities in Asia and their efforts to preserve their culture.

The organizers of the exhibition have also planned Asia Culture Days on Tuesdays and Saturdays, which will introduce a variety of food, traditional costumes and music.

Culture Day events will continue from Aug. 16 (Sri Lanka) until Aug. 23 (Cambodia) at the seminar room on the second floor of the JoongAng Ilbo building.

“Dreaming Kitchen - Flavor of Asia” photo exhibition will be held from Aug. 6 to 27 at the Korea Foundation Cultural Center Gallery, JoongAng Ilbo Building, Sunhwa-dong, downtown Seoul.

For those interested in attending Culture Days, it’s best to make reservations in advance.

For more information on this free exhibition, visit www.unescoapceiu.org or call (02) 774-3982.

By Jason Kim Staff Reporter [jason@joongang.co.kr]