- Episodes 341: Aired on April 4, 2024
- Aired on Korean TV Channel MBC
Introduction
Village in Korea Chronicles: In recent episodes of “Welcome, First Time in Korea?”, a seasoned chef and professor at a Korean university from Italy, is joined by two unexpected companions—the mayors of Italian cities—as they venture away from the modern streets of Seoul to the historic lanes of Andong. Their captivating journey through Andong is documented on the popular Korean TV entertainment program broadcasted on MBC. Join us as we witness their exploration and delve into the rich tapestry of Korean culture, cuisine, and tradition.
The Italian Mayors Appear on “Welcome First Time in Korea?”
In these episodes of “Welcome, First Time in Korea?,” the host of the Italian episode is Francesco, a professor of culinary arts at a Korean university with 10 years of experience as a chef in Italy. With the appearance of Francesco, a culinary expert, the MCs eagerly anticipate the second part of the Italian chef special. However, they are surprised to learn about the identities of Francesco’s invited friends. His friends turn out to be none other than the mayors of various cities in Italy.
As the mayor of Casale Monferrato, the headquarters of European wine located in the northwest of Italy, Federico is a “pure-blooded politician” who entered politics at the tender age of 18 after graduating from political school!
Next, as the mayor of Trino, a beautiful agricultural city known for producing high-quality rice, Daniele is known as “the communication king of this region” who has created a myth of re-election with his exceptional communication skills, even going as far as publicizing his phone number!
Lastly, as the mayor of Recco, a city steeped in history with medieval relics still intact, Lido is a versatile icon from engineering to cooking, whose talents know no bounds!
Originally planned as a visit by three individuals, Lido had to cancel due to health reasons the day before departure. Nonetheless, the journey with Francesco and the two Italian mayors began. Their second day’s destination was the village of Andong in North Gyeongsang Province.
Experiencing Andong Folk Village in Korea
Dressed in hanbok, traditional Korean attire, the trio of Italian gentlemen visited Hahoe Village in Andong, UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the famous Pungsan Ryu family has lived for 600 years. Queen Elizabeth of the United Kingdom visited this village in April 1999. It is famous that the queen showed her feet in public for the first time as a sign of respect for Korean etiquette. They explore various sites in Hahoe Village, from the Pungsan Ryu’s old house to the Samshin Shrine, immersing themselves in its deep history. They also learn about traditional Korean houses and the unique Ondol heating system.
Additionally, they witness the Hahoe Mask Dance Drama Performance (Hahoe Byeolsingut Exorcism), a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, which consists of six acts including the performance of traditional Korean musical instruments like the drum and the Taepyeongs
The Hahoe Mask Dance Drama Performance
In Hahoe Village, two performances stand out: the Hahoe Mask Dance Drama catering to common people, and the Hahoe Seonyu Fireworks aimed at scholars. The name ‘Hahoe’ originates from the nearby Nakdong River, which curves around the village. For centuries, villagers have performed the star god’s ritual dance on Lunar New Year’s Day and other special occasions for good fortune. Mask dances, dating back around 500 years, entertain the star god and the audience alike. During these dances, a masked clown humorously highlights noblemen’s flaws and may play pranks on them. This ancient tradition remains a highlight for visitors to this village in Korea.
Moreover, just as they were preparing to depart after soaking in the serene atmosphere of the temple visit, they were unexpectedly given the chance to ring the temple bell—an opportunity not often afforded to visitors. It was 6 p.m., the time for the evening bell ringing, a moment that Daniele had eagerly awaited to experience firsthand.
The Taste of Andong Cuisine: Heotjesabap
The final stop on their tour of Andong, a village in Korea, was a restaurant called “50-Year Taste of Ancestral Ritual Food,” where they could sample traditional Andong cuisine and culture. Ancestral ritual food, known as “jesabap,” originates from the tradition of making bibimbap with leftover food from ancestral rituals. In 1978, it was first commercialized by Grandma Jogye Hyang, who recreated the ancestral ritual food using various wild greens and traditional sauces to offer a healthy meal.
Coming from Italy, they experienced traditional Korean food and alcohol culture while tasting Heotjesabap, Andong’s specialty grilled mackerel, and Andong Soju. Daniele was fascinated by the Heotjesabap, which was generously filled with soy sauce-marinated greens, while Federico expressed satisfaction despite being a meat lover.
Conclusion
Joined by mayors from various Italian cities, our journey to Andong Folk Village in Korea on the renowned television program “Welcome, First Time in Korea?,” broadcasted on MBC, has been enhanced by a multitude of viewpoints. As we traverse the timeless alleys of Andong, our deep dive into the diverse facets of Korean culture, cuisine, and heritage has made a lasting impression.
