AFP File photo. Photo by Anthony WALLACE / AFP
Travelers flying out of Incheon Airport may want to double-check baggage regulations before packing their favorite fermented dish.
According to Incheon Airport, 10.7 tons of kimchi were confiscated from departing passengers last year for violating carry-on luggage liquid restrictions. Given that a single head of kimchi weighs about three kilograms, this amounts to roughly 3,500 cabbages left behind at security checkpoints.
Under current regulations, food containing liquid — including kimchi — is only permitted in carry-on baggage if each container holds 100 milliliters or less, with all items fitting into a single 1-liter plastic bag.
For those carrying larger quantities, officials recommend packing kimchi in checked luggage. Otherwise, passengers may have to part ways with their beloved dish before boarding.
Confiscated food items are either donated or discarded per regulations, the airport said.
Kimchi was not the only food item seized at security last year.
Authorities also confiscated 10.5 metric tons of sauces, such as gochujang and soybean paste, along with 30.8 tons of other food items, including rice and fruit.
