As the summer heat intensifies, there's no better way to cool off than with the delightful combination of chicken and beer. During this season, various festivals take place across many provinces in Korea, such as the Waterbomb and Mud Festival. Today, let's dive into the Chimaek Festival in Daegu, a celebration that perfectly blends these beloved staples. I'll share my personal, and quite biased, experiences from attending three editions of this festival.
What is the history of Chimaek?
Since the Japanese colonial period, Daegu has been renowned for its robust poultry industry. The presence of major traditional markets like Seomun Market, Chilseong Market, and Nammun Market ensured a smooth supply of chickens, supported by an excellent transportation network including railroads, roads, and the Nakdong River. The largest hatchery during this period, Shingi Hatchery, was located in Sangyeok-dong, Buk-gu. By the 1970s, 80% of the country's poultry farms were in Daegu and Gyeongbuk, and even in the early 1980s, Daegu had a national-scale hatchery and multiple processing plants. This strong poultry foundation led to the early success of chicken franchise businesses such as Mexicana and Cheogajip Seasoned Chicken in the 1970s and 80s.
After the Korean War, Daegu's poultry industry continued to thrive, providing diverse meat options to the recovering population. In the 1970s and 80s, numerous chicken-related brands emerged, solidifying Daegu's reputation as the birthplace of many famous chicken franchises. Brands like Mexicana Chicken, Cheogajip Seasoned Chicken, and Smof Chicken originated here, and today, well-known brands such as Kyochon Chicken, Daegu Tongdak, Ttang Ttang Chicken, Byeol Byeol Chicken, Jongguk Yi Dumari Chicken, Chicken Party, and Hosigi Dumari Chicken continue this legacy. The first Chimaek Festival was held in 2013, combining chicken and beer to celebrate this rich heritage and boost the local economy.
When and Where
Every summer, the Chimaek Festival takes place at Daegu's Duryu Park, turning the venue into a paradise for chicken and beer lovers. This year, the festival was from July 3rd (Wednesday) to July 7th (Sunday), 2024.
What to Expect
The Chimaek Festival is a haven for those who relish the delightful duo of chicken and beer. During the festival, attendees can indulge in a wide variety of chicken dishes, with numerous popular chicken franchises participating to offer their best. It’s a rare opportunity to sample diverse chicken flavors all in one place.
Moreover, the festival organizers have created unique spaces where you can dip your feet in refreshing ice water while enjoying your chimaek. It’s not just about eating and drinking; it's about experiencing comfort and joy in the summer heat.
My Experience at the Chimaek Festival in Daegu
The Chimaek Festival in Daegu was the first Korean festival I ever attended, and it holds a special place in my heart. Every year that I'm in Korea, I feel it's my duty to participate, even if it's just for a day. It's a festival that not many foreigners, and even some Koreans, know about, but I enjoy it immensely. Although I'm not a fan of beer, the free beer with lemon that we got for free wasn't too bad! The variety of chicken available is incredible, making it a fantastic way to spend a summer day.
Overall, it's a great festival that I wish more people knew about. I got to see recent popular idols like Lee Youngji, as well as Kpop idols I listened to during my teenage years, even before I decided to learn Korean. I might have cried(aka sobbed) when I saw Hyolyn live, and I was definitely grateful to have gone to see Jay Park, even though I had no one to tag alone. It rained, and he sang "MOMMAE" and that combo was let's say perfect —if you know what I mean, 10/10 experience.
For the 2024 edition, I didn't stay much but I could see the comedian Tanaka, and my worthless tries to avoid the water were destroyed by my friend's willing to make me enjoy every second of it. Although it was a brief staying at the festival, I am glad to be a part of this festival for another year.
Pros:
- Free entry
- Free beer (with a lemon twist)
- Many fun artists and performances
- Opportunity to play with water (great for cooling off)
- Various types of delicious beer and chicken to try
- Extended operating hours for subways and buses during the festival
Cons:
- If you're not into water festivals, you might need to bring a raincoat
- The traffic going back home can be a bit annoying (though manageable)
FAQs about Chimaek
How popular is Chimaek?
Chimaek is incredibly popular in Korea, often seen as a staple comfort food and a go-to choice for social gatherings. The combination of chicken and beer has become a beloved part of Korean food culture, celebrated through numerous festivals and events, such as the famous Chimaek Festival in Daegu.
What is Korean Chimaek?
Chimaek is a portmanteau of "chicken" and "maekju," the Korean word for beer. It refers to the delightful pairing of fried chicken and beer, a combination that is highly cherished in Korea. This duo is enjoyed in a variety of settings, from casual get-togethers to large festivals, providing a perfect blend of flavors and social enjoyment.
Why is fried chicken so big in Korea?
Fried chicken became big in Korea due to a combination of historical, cultural, and economic factors. After the Korean War, the poultry industry flourished in regions like Daegu, making chicken a widely accessible and affordable meat. The introduction of American-style fried chicken in the 1970s, combined with local adaptations and flavors, made it a hit. Its popularity grew as it became associated with comfort, socializing, and celebrations.
Why is Korean fried chicken the best?
Korean fried chicken is often considered the best due to its unique preparation and flavor profiles. Unlike traditional Western fried chicken, Korean fried chicken is typically double-fried, resulting in an extra crispy exterior while maintaining a juicy interior. The variety of sauces and seasonings, ranging from sweet and spicy to soy garlic, adds a distinctive and delicious twist that sets it apart. This meticulous preparation and flavorful diversity make Korean fried chicken a standout favorite.
Conclusion
Chimaek is more than just food and drink; it’s an occasion that brings people together, fostering a sense of community and shared enjoyment. We look forward to seeing many of you at the festival, ready to celebrate and savor the irresistible combination of chicken and beer. Don't Forget that if you wanna understand more of korean language and koreal culture you need to sign up for Lingopie and learn with the best kdramas and movies!
