Those flying out of Incheon Airport may want to double-check baggage regulations before packing their favourite fermented dish.
According to Incheon Airport, 10.7 tonnes of kimchi was confiscated in 2024 from departing passengers for violating carry-on luggage liquid restrictions. Given that a single head of kimchi weighs about 3kg, this amounts to roughly 3,500 cabbages left behind at security checkpoints.
Under current regulations, food containing liquid – including kimchi – is permitted only in carry-on baggage if each container holds 100ml or less, with all items fitting into a single one-litre 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, according to regulations.
Kimchi was not the only food item seized at security in 2024.
The authorities also confiscated 10.5 tonnes of sauces, such as gochujang and soya bean paste, along with 30.8 tonnes of other food items, including rice and fruit. — The Korea Herald/ANN
