The Great Korean Census Caper: How Many Kimchis in the Big Smoke?
Ah, London. A city that brews a mean cuppa, houses Big Ben (who knew a clock could be such a star?), and boasts a royal family with enough corgis to fill a bouncy castle. But there's another, perhaps lesser-known, population thriving in the UK's capital: Koreans!
That's right, folks. Turns out, London has a soft spot for kimchi and K-pop, playing host to the largest Korean community in all of Europe. But just how many Koreans are we talking about? Buckle up, because this census caper gets a little...fuzzy.
Counting Kimchis: Mission Impossible?
The official body count: The South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs (yes, they keep tabs on their kimchi-loving expats) estimated around 40,770 Koreans residing in the UK in 2019.
But wait, there's more! Some reports suggest a more localised figure for London, with estimates hovering around 20,000 Koreans. That's a significant chunk of people, enough to form a human-sized K-pop dance routine and maybe even break a world record for most bibimbap consumed in an hour (just a suggestion).
So, what's the kimchi verdict? The exact number remains a bit of a mystery, shrouded in the delightful enigma of ever-changing demographics. But hey, that's the beauty of London, a city that's a melting pot of cultures, including a sizeable and vibrant Korean community.
Signs You've Stumbled into Koreatown
Ever feel like you've stepped into a Seoul adventure while wandering the streets of London? Here's how to spot a Korean enclave:
- Kimchi calling: Your nose picks up a delicious, spicy aroma. Yep, that's the unmistakable call of kimchi, a fermented cabbage dish that'll have your taste buds doing the tango.
- Hallyu heaven: Neon signs advertising Korean beauty products and K-pop posters plastered everywhere? Welcome to Koreatown, my friend.
- Grocery galore: Spot a store overflowing with Korean snacks, noodles, and enough soju (a potent Korean liquor) to fuel a night of karaoke.
Pro tip: Head to New Malden, a southwest London suburb known for its buzzing Korean community.
FAQ: Your Guide to London's Korean Community
How to find Korean food in London? A quick Google search with "Korean restaurant London" should do the trick. New Malden is a great starting point.
How to say hello in Korean? "Anyounghaseyo" (pronounced anyo-ha-se-yo) is a polite way to say hello.
How to get involved in the Korean community? Look for Korean community centers or social groups online.
How to watch K-dramas in London? Many streaming services offer Korean dramas with subtitles.
How to make kimchi? This one might require some practice, but there are plenty of online recipes to guide you. Just be prepared for some funky smells during the fermentation process!
