Korean Food Abroad

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Believe it or not, there’s a Korean restaurant in Surinam, a small, tropical country in South America where very few Korean tourists ever venture. Amazingly, the restaurant has been in business for over 33 years, spanning two generations. We bring you the story.

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This is the only Korean restaurant in Surinam. The customers who fill up the dining hall are all Surinamese. Many of them are regulars, since the establishment has been in business for 33 years spanning two generations.

[Soundbite] Regular Customer at Restaurant : "I've been coming here with my family since I was 11. My favorite is the steak tartare."

Bulgogi, bibimbap and japchae are popular here. The restaurant also serves fusion dishes, such as a fish preparation developed by the owner. Korean ingredients or seasonings that are hard to find in Surinam are replaced with local substitutes.

[Soundbite] Lee Seong-hun(2nd Generation Owner) : "Repeat customers know the taste of Korean pepper powder, but we use Surinam peppers for first-time patrons."

The restaurant started out with only three tables, but now it's big enough to accommodate 100 people.

[Soundbite] Lee Yong-gu(1st Generation Owner) : "People can't forget the taste of Korean food once they've had it."

The 33-year-old Korean restaurant in Surinam is doing its part to promote Korean cuisine in this South American country.