Controversy Over 'Han Slang Kimchi' Released in Japan... "Reflecting on Lack of Awareness of Etymology, Product Name Change"

Professor Seokyungdeok: "We Must Reflect Ourselves First"

Professor Seokyungdeok from Sungshin Women's University recently spoke out saying "We need to reflect on ourselves first" regarding the online controversy in Japan over a product named "Gaejonmat Kimchi," which used Korean slang.

On the 12th, Professor Seokyungdeok stated on social media (SNS), "On the occasion of Hangul Day, I received various reports about incorrect Hangul usage overseas."

[Photo by Professor Seokyungdeok SNS screenshot]

He continued, "According to the reports, opinions were divided between 'slang should not be used as product names' and 'it is a commonly used expression among Koreans, so it is acceptable.'"

He also explained, "After the controversy, the (Japanese) manufacturer apologized and expressed their intention to promptly change the product name to another one."

Professor Seokyungdeok said, "As you know well, 'Gaejonmat' is slang frequently used online meaning 'really delicious.' While it is true that it is widely used among the public, slang usage should be appropriate to the time and place."

He introduced, "A few years ago, a travel program featuring a night market trip in Bangkok, Thailand was broadcast. The camera captured a sign saying 'Gaejonmat Haemul Buchimgae,' which caused both laughter and controversy."

He pointed out, "If we ourselves overuse slang, scenes like this will continue to appear overseas."

The Japanese company that released the controversial kimchi apologized on the 9th via SNS, saying, "We sincerely apologize for causing concern." They added, "There were comments that some people felt uncomfortable with the word 'Gaejonmat.' We reflect on using slang in the product name and our lack of awareness regarding its origin."

The company explained that the term is used among young Koreans to emphasize that something is delicious and stated, "We take this matter seriously and will promptly change the product name."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.