The Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines, along with the National Asian Culture Center Foundation and Chonnam National University, presents “Sikgaek: The Journey of Tasting Korea,” an interactive exhibition that invites visitors to explore Korea’s rich culinary heritage through the adventures of Sungchan.

Created by Korean artist Hur Young-man, the manhwa, or Korean comic, was first published in 2002 and has since expanded into various forms of media.

The interactive exhibition, which is spread across multiple floors of the KCC building, follows the journey of chef Sungchan, the main character in the comic as he explores five key ingredients of Korean cuisine: rice, kimchi, jang or fermented sauces and pastes, vegetables, and seafood.

To make the exhibition feel like a real adventure alongside Sungchan, visitors can begin their journey on the ground floor, where they will find Sungchan’s vegetable truck. Using AI technology, they can also transform themselves into their very own Sikgaek-inspired characters, becoming part of the adventure.

After making their own character, they can now head to the library, where visitors can follow the author’s archives and digital works, which can be read through an interactive wall and library, showcasing how the author brought the manhwa to life.

Along the way, visitors can also read some iconic quotes from the manhwa as they continue their journey across the building, highlighting some of the unforgettable lines from the characters.

The next stop is the third floor, where visitors can get a glimpse of “hansang,” a complete traditional Korean meal served all at once. This area features signature dishes representing five key ingredients from the comic—rice, kimchi, seafood, fermented sauces, and vegetables—highlighting the harmony and balance of a traditional Korean meal.

The main exhibition is located on the fifth floor, where visitors can step into the world of “Sikgaek” and explore the five key ingredients in the comic. Through fun and interactive activities, they can discover the stories behind each element and gain a deeper appreciation of Korea’s rich culinary heritage.

The final stretch of the exhibition ends in a photo zone designed to resemble a traditional Korean alleyway, where visitors can capture memorable photos while immersing themselves in the atmosphere of Korea’s streets.

During the opening ceremony on November 5, 2026, a Kimchi workshop was also held, giving guests the opportunity a firsthand experience on how Koreans usually make the famous side dish. 

KCC Director Kim Myeongjin highlighted that the exhibition goes beyond showcasing Korea’s delicious cuisine, offering Filipino visitors a unique opportunity to experience Korean culture through its rich culinary traditions.

“Through this exhibition, we hope to offer visitors not only an enjoyable experience but also a deeper appreciation of hansik, or Korean cuisine, and its important role in Korean culture,” he said. 

The “Sikgaek: The Journey of Tasting Korea” is open to the public from November 6, 2026 until February 27, 2027, Mondays to Saturdays, from 9 AM to 4 PM.