Seoul: Airport security checkpoints are known for seizing liquids, gels, and other restricted items. However, South Korea Airport seized kimchi in large quantities, with security officials at Incheon International Airport (ICN) confiscating an unexpected 10.7 tons of the fermented dish in 2023.
Kimchi Seized at Incheon Airport
In 2023, airport officials at ICN confiscated 10.7 tons of kimchi from passengers carrying it in their hand luggage. Kimchi, a traditional Korean dish made from fermented vegetables, often comes packaged in plastic bags or bottles filled with spicy liquid. This liquid content classifies it as a restricted item under airport security regulations, which ban carrying liquids and gels exceeding 100ml in carry-on bags.
Alongside kimchi, officials also seized 10.5 tons of jang, a category that includes various fermented sauces and pastes. Airport authorities either dispose of these items or donate them to local community welfare centers.
Viral Warnings and Passenger Awareness
To prevent passengers from unknowingly violating these regulations, travel influencers and bloggers have taken to social media to raise awareness. A Korean travel influencer’s viral YouTube video, which has gained over 1.2 million views, reminds travelers to pack kimchi in checked baggage rather than carry it onto the plane.
Other Banned Food Items at South Korean Airports
This isn’t the first time South Korean authorities have cracked down on popular food products. In 2024, Korean Air, the country’s flagship airline, stopped serving ramyeon (instant noodles) in economy class on long-haul flights. The airline cited safety concerns, explaining that turbulence made serving boiling water for noodles risky.
Another surprising confiscation involved Trader Joe’s Everything But the Bagel seasoning mix. South Korean authorities later banned this popular U.S. product because it contains poppy seeds—an oilseed illegal in South Korea. Signs in Korean and English are now placed throughout the airport warning passengers not to bring the seasoning mix into the country.
Conclusion
The strict enforcement of liquid restrictions at ICN underscores the importance of checking local regulations before traveling. Whether it’s kimchi, jang, or even seasoning mixes, passengers need to ensure that their favorite food items comply with airport security rules. South Korea’s commitment to safety and regulation enforcement serves as a reminder for travelers to be mindful of what they pack in their carry-on luggage.
