Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Customs officers at South Korea’s Incheon International Airport confiscate thousands of prohibited items each year, one of the most surprising being kimchi. In 2024 alone, more than 10 tons of the fermented vegetable dish were seized at the airport due to restrictions on liquid items in carry-on baggage.
Kimchi, a staple of Korean cuisine made from salted and fermented vegetables with spicy seasonings, is commonly consumed throughout South Korea. However, despite its cultural significance, kimchi is considered a restricted item in carry-on luggage.
The traditional cuisine was restricted because it is typically packaged in plastic bags or bottles containing liquid seasoning, which exceeds the 100-milliliter limit imposed on liquids in hand luggage.
According to airport data, security officers at Incheon International Airport (ICN) confiscated a total of 10.7 tons of kimchi throughout 2024. As reported by CNN, passengers carrying kimchi in their cabin bags violated liquid restrictions, leading to widespread seizures.
Like many airports worldwide, Incheon strictly enforces the 100-milliliter limit on liquids and gels in carry-on luggage.
Another Seized Item
In addition to kimchi, airport officials also seized 10.5 tons of “jang”, a term encompassing various traditional Korean fermented sauces and pastes. Another 30.8 tons of food items, including rice and fruit, were also confiscated during the year.
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While most seized items are discarded, officials confirmed that the entire 10.7 tons of kimchi were donated to local community welfare centers. All other confiscated food products were also distributed to those in need.
How to Carry Kimchi on Board
For travelers, there is a way to bring kimchi and gochujang (a popular Korean chili paste) on board. They must be packed in separate 100-milliliter containers, which should then be placed in a single, sealed one-liter plastic bag. There are no size restrictions if packed in checked luggage.
Therefore, travelers hoping to bring the South Korean food with them is essential to understand airport regulations. While kimchi and other fermented foods remain a cultural staple, proper packing can ensure a smooth journey without unexpected confiscations.
(Raidi/Agung)
