NEW YORK CITY (WABC) — Many people are celebrating Korean Thanksgiving this week.
This is a three-day holiday called Hangawi. Prior to the festivities, New York-based Korean-American business owners had the opportunity to showcase their innovative products inspired by Korean culture at the expo.
They also had a very special guest in attendance.
Whether it’s food, clothing, skin care or coffee, New York-area Korean business owners are taking cues from their culture and adding a bit of a modern twist.
Take Halmi, for example, a line of sparkling drinks inspired by founder Hannah Bae’s own Halmi (the affectionate Korean term for grandma).
“So I had a very sensitive stomach, growing up across the street from my grandma. She used to make me very medicinal, very, very beneficial foods and drinks based on Korean culture,” Bae said.
What started as an experiment in home kitchens in 2020 has grown into jars packed with familiar Korean flavors like cinnamon, ginger and persimmon.
“Korean American small business owners are in many ways unsung heroes and the backbone of our local economy,” said Kevin Kim, Commissioner of the Department of Small Business Services. “Now you’re seeing the next generation of entrepreneurs.”
At “Hangawi in New York,” an early celebration of Korean Thanksgiving, there is an opportunity to showcase the fusion of Korean and American culture.
South Korea’s First Lady Kim Gun-hee and local leaders visited the site to view the innovative products.
“As you explore the booth, we invite you to experience Korea’s hyper-growth journey,” said Keon-Hee.
As Koreans celebrate the holiday this week, they are thankful for the journey, the people and experiences along the way that have allowed them to carry on their traditions in their own way.
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