"Jeolla province"

Located in the southern part of the Korean peninsula, Jeolla-do or Jeolla province is divided into two regions, Jeollabuk-do (North Jeolla province) and Jeollanam-do (South Jeolla province). Its name was derived from combining the first syllables of the two major cities of each province, Jeonju in the north and Naju in the south. In Korean, the combination of these syllables results to a pronunciation akin to Jeolla. South Jeolla Province, commonly referred to as Jeonnam, has an impressive 6100 km of coastline. Home to just under 2 million people, the province is comprised of 5 cities and 17 counties. The provincial tree is the Gingko Biloba and they’re often seen in household gardens. There are many tourist hot spots as well, including temples, breathtaking coastlines, beaches and a wide variety of festivals; the Gangjin Caledon Pottery Festival and Hampyeong Butterfly Festival, to name a few. 

Food in Jeolla province

1. Jeonju Bibimbap (전주비빔밥)

The bibimbap to end all bibimbaps, Jeonju Bibimbap is arguably the most popular traditional Korean dish among foreigners. It is made with a variety of local ingredients (also known as the Ten Flavors of Jeonju) and showcases a harmony of five flavors (sweet, salty, savory, spicy, and astringent) and the five cardinal colors composed of green, red, yellow, white, and black. According to tradition, the ingredients of Bibimbap were selected in relation to yin and yang and the five elements. Historical records show that this instagram-worthy, well-balanced dish traces its roots to Korean royal cuisine. It was usually eaten in banquets hosted by governors and has been enjoyed by Koreans since the 1800s.

2. Euneo-gui (은어구이 )

Euneo or sweetfish can be harvested in abundance every spring and summer in the Seomjingang River in South Jeolla province. It is even said that this river’s color turns to silver during this time of the year due to the millions of sweetfish that come to give birth. The women of the region, known for their amazing culinary skills, created this dish by stuffing the fishes with various herbs and spices and grilling them in an open flame. The result is a smoky and savory dish perfect for outdoor picnics during spring and summer.

3. Daetongbap (대통밥)

While technically not a dish, Daetongbap or rice steamed in bamboo is one of the foods popular in the Jeolla region. It all started when an ancient chef discovered that bamboo produces oil when heated to a certain temperature. This oil, called jukryeok in Korean, was later proven to have health benefits. Damyang, an area in the South Jeolla province, is known for its high-quality bamboo, and locals became experts in creating Daetong or bamboo bowls. Rice, together with other grains, is steamed in these bamboo bowls and served with flavorful side dishes. Its fresh taste, aroma, and health benefits are a few reasons why this food has gained popularity.