Climate change is threatening South Korea’s famous kimchi as rising temperatures impact the quality and quantity of napa cabbage, a key ingredient in the iconic dish. Napa cabbage thrives in cooler climates, but warmer temperatures are now putting these crops at risk, potentially leading to a future where South Korea cannot grow the cabbage at all.
Experts like plant pathologist Lee Young-gyu emphasize the narrow temperature range in which cabbage grows best, highlighting the challenges posed by climate change. Farmers and kimchi makers are already feeling the effects, with the heart of the cabbage deteriorating due to higher temperatures.
Packaged kimchi cabbages are placed at the Anbandeogi village in Gangneung, South Korea, on Aug. 22.
| REUTERS
The challenges of climate change, coupled with other factors like fungal infections and competition from cheaper Chinese imports, are threatening the kimchi industry in South Korea. The government and scientists are working on solutions, including developing crop varieties resilient to climate change, but farmers like Kim Si-gap worry about the impact on tradition and taste.