Korean Identity in Food Dimension of Korean Restaurant Songkhla Province

Abstract

This research aimed to study the process of creating Korean identity through Korean food and Korean restaurants using qualitative research methods by using the conceptual framework in education such as identity concept, food culture concept and the concept of consumerism. The researcher chose to study Korean identity through 10 Korean restaurants in Songkhla province as the main source of information and conducted the research through observation and in-depth interviews. In addition, data is collected from various sources including documents, articles, publications, online media and related research for data analysis. The results showed that South Korea has a process of creating a Korean identity through cultural policy, emphasizing the cultural industry to convey the Korean identity through entertainment media and sell the eating culture in a Korean restaurant business through various elements of the store, including shop decorations, food menus, raw materials, seasonings, and other dining equipment. It was also found that the consumers of Korean restaurants in Songkhla province consumed in the form of consumption of signs that was more meaningful than the initial utilization. But Korean food is consumed as a symbol of Korea, such as good health, deliciousness and modernity to bring together to create an identity as people who are Korean lovers.