Food journey through Korea's administrative capital

Sejong, the administrative capital of Korea, embodies a captivating fusion of modernity and tradition. From a 49th-floor cafe, the city's pristine grid of avenues, government buildings, tranquil lakes, and lush arboretums create an impression of a well-designed urban landscape. Yet, venturing into the historic core reveals a starkly different atmosphere. Here, narrow lanes brim with bustling market stalls, vintage signage, remnants of train tracks, and young artisans establishing their workshops in aged brick residences.

Sejong Osik, or the Five-Meal tour, attempts to harmonize these divergent facets into a cohesive gastronomic experience. Conceived by Sejong's municipal authorities and the city's Culture and Tourism Foundation, the program spans two days and one night, showcasing Korea's administrative center through its culinary lens. Drawing from King Sejong the Great's reputed habit of consuming five meals daily, the tour guides participants through the city's prominent eateries, markets, and cafes, offering a comprehensive sampling of the local cuisine.

The culinary tour commences with a hearty serving of pork ribs, emblematic of Sejong's robust food culture. This opening dish sets the stage for an exploration of the city's diverse gastronomic offerings, promising a deeper understanding and appreciation of Sejong's unique blend of the old and new.