HONG KONG — For many Hong Kong travellers, a trip to South Korea isn’t complete without bringing home a jar of authentic, tangy kimchi. But that cherished souvenir has become the most confiscated item at Incheon International Airport, with authorities seizing a staggering 10.7 tonnes of the fermented cabbage in 2024 alone. The reason? Strict global aviation rules on liquids, not the food itself, are catching out even the savviest passengers.
The Liquid Loophole That Trips Up Travelers
Kimchi is not banned from flights. However, the brine and sauce that pack it—often sold in jars or sealed bags—easily exceed the 100-millilitre limit for liquids in carry-on luggage. Security personnel at Incheon routinely spot these containers during screening, leading to mass confiscation. The data, first reported by CNN Travel, places kimchi at the top of the airport’s seizure list, closely followed by soy sauce, of which 10.5 tonnes were also taken.
“People think of kimchi as a solid food, but its liquid content falls squarely under international safety regulations,” explains a spokesperson for Incheon Airport. “We understand the disappointment, but rules are rules.”
Behind the Seizures: A Surprising Silver Lining
Rather than destroying the confiscated kimchi, Incheon Airport has partnered with local community welfare centres. The donated food helps support low-income households, turning what would be waste into a meaningful contribution. This initiative has earned praise, though it does little to ease the frustration of travellers who lose their prized purchases.
For Hong Kong residents hoping to share the taste of Korea with family and friends, the news serves as a cautionary tale. But there are legal ways to bring kimchi home—if you know the rules.
Three Proven Strategies to Safely Bring Kimchi to Hong Kong
1. Check It In, Don’t Carry It On
The simplest method is to place kimchi in checked luggage. Use airtight, sealed plastic containers to prevent leakage—glass jars are common but risk breaking under pressure or rough handling. Double-bagging adds an extra layer of security.
2. Declare Large Quantities at Customs
If you plan to bring a significant amount of kimchi into Hong Kong, declare it to customs officers. The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department may require inspection. Honesty upfront avoids fines or confiscation later.
3. Be Aware of Seafood Content Restrictions
Authentic kimchi often contains shrimp paste and fish sauce, which are animal-based ingredients. These can trigger additional quarantine checks. Hong Kong’s import rules on meat and seafood vary, so travellers carrying large volumes should verify current regulations before departure.
Broader Implications for Travellers
The Incheon crackdown is part of a global tightening of liquid restrictions at airports. As more passengers pack food souvenirs, authorities are reminding travellers that the rules apply equally to edible goods. “Many people assume it’s just for toiletries,” says travel blogger Jason Li, who had two jars of kimchi confiscated last year. “I learned the hard way.”
For Hongkongers, the message is clear: plan ahead, pack smart, and always check both departure and arrival country rules. The next time you visit Korea, leave the kimchi in your suitcase—not your handbag. Your friends will still enjoy the gift, and you’ll avoid an awkward conversation at security.
For more travel tips and food safety guides, explore our related articles on cross-border food regulations and Hong Kong customs updates.