Sat, Jan 24, 2026 | Shaban 5, 1447 | Fajr 05:44 | DXB weather-sun.svg23.3°C

Korea showcases premium K-Food at UAE National Day reception in Abu Dhabi

The event welcomed approximately 500 distinguished guests, including ambassadors, senior UAE government officials, and business community leaders

Published: Tue 9 Dec 2025, 12:53 PM

The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the United Arab Emirates, led by Chargé d’Affaires Park Jongkyoung, together with the aT Center Dubai, hosted a premium Korean Agri-Food Tasting Programme during the UAE National Day reception held at the St. Regis Hotel in Abu Dhabi. The event welcomed approximately 500 distinguished guests, including ambassadors, senior UAE government officials, and business community leaders.

The reception was honoured by the attendance of Saeed Mubarak Rashid Al Hajeri, Minister of State, who joined as guest of honour. His presence underscored the deepening cooperation and friendship between the UAE and the Republic of Korea.

In his welcoming remarks, Chargé d’Affaires Park Jongkyoung expressed appreciation for the longstanding partnership between the two nations and highlighted the importance of continued collaboration across culture, trade, and agriculture.

The event featured a dedicated K-Food Promotion Zone operated by the aT Center Dubai, offering guests a curated selection of premium Korean agricultural products, including Halal-certified Korean beef, Shine Muscat grapes, Korean pears, sweet potatoes, persimmons, and a range of red ginseng and wellness-focused items.

A special Halal Korean Beef section presented Korea’s Halal-compliant slaughter and certification process, emphasising the distinctive qualities of Hanwoo beef such as pristine marbling, tenderness, and refined flavour. Chefs and F&B professionals in attendance noted its strong potential for premium dining and hospitality markets in the UAE.

The fresh produce tasting area also attracted significant interest. Guests praised the natural sweetness, freshness, and high quality of Korean fruits. Many commented that Korean pears and Shine Muscat grapes align well with UAE consumer preferences and are particularly suitable as gifts during occasions like Ramadan and Eid. Red ginseng and wellness products also received positive feedback from attendees interested in health and immunity benefits.

Multiple VIP guests described the reception as “an exceptional opportunity to experience the excellence of Korean food and culture,” citing the safety, packaging, consistent quality, and refined taste of Korean products as key strengths.

The embassy reaffirmed its commitment to further strengthening cultural and trade cooperation between Korea and the UAE, with plans to expand future collaboration in agriculture, food export, and cultural exchange.