Beyond Balsamic: A Taste of Korean Creativity


Presented by the Korean Cultural Center New York in collaboration with Shine Fresh.

◾ DATE & TIME:
- Friday, November 13, 2026 | 6 PM
- Saturday, November 14, 2026 | 4 PM

◾ VENUE: Korean Cultural Center New York
   (122 E 32nd Street, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10016)

◾ ADMISSION: Free (Pre-registration required)
   * Space is limited; advance registration is required.
   * Due to limited capacity, participants will be selected through a randomized lottery process.


What happens when the delicate sweetness of Shine Muscat grapes meets the art of Korean fermentation and modern culinary creativity?

The Korean Cultural Center New York, in collaboration with Shine Fresh, presents “Beyond Balsamic: A Taste of Korean Creativity,” a special culinary workshop featuring Chef Kiki and three distinctive Korean balsamic vinegars crafted from Shine Muscat grapes.

Known for their natural sweetness and delicate aroma, Shine Muscat grapes offer a unique foundation for exploring new dimensions of flavor. Through fermentation, these grapes are transformed into versatile vinegars that bring a distinctive balance of sweetness, acidity, and depth to contemporary cooking.

Moving beyond traditional uses in salads and dressings, this workshop explores the creative possibilities of Korean balsamic vinegar through three expressions: Savory, Sweet & Sparkling.

Known for her imaginative culinary style, Chef Kiki combines French-inspired techniques, global influences, and elegant presentation to bring a fresh perspective to Korean ingredients. Through specially developed culinary creations, she will demonstrate how Shine Muscat balsamic vinegar can inspire unexpected flavors and exciting new approaches to modern cuisine.

Through culinary demonstrations, hands-on experiences, and tastings, participants will discover the versatility of Korean balsamic vinegar while exploring the connection between Korean ingredients, fermentation, and contemporary culinary innovation.

Join us for a unique culinary journey celebrating the creativity and evolving possibilities of Korean food culture.

Beyond the Ordinary. Beyond Balsamic.


◆ About the instructor

Chef Kiki (Kiran) Kim is a New York–based Executive Chef, culinary creative, and educator known for blending French culinary technique with Korean culinary philosophy. Born and raised in Korea, she graduated from the Culinary Institute of America and refined her craft in Michelin-starred restaurants across the United States and France, developing a style rooted in precision, artistry, and innovation.

She currently serves as Executive Chef at Virgin Hotels New York, where she oversees multiple dining venues, banquet operations, and large-scale culinary events. Beyond the hotel, Chef Kiki leads international pop-ups, cultural collaborations, and educational workshops that introduce Korean cuisine through a contemporary global perspective.

Through her signature project, Art on the Table, Chef Kiki creates immersive dining experiences where gastronomy and contemporary art intersect. By translating an artist's vision into flavor, texture, presentation, and storytelling, she invites guests to experience food as a form of artistic expression.

Passionate about cultural exchange, Chef Kiki has collaborated with luxury brands, cultural institutions, and hospitality partners to showcase Korean ingredients through refined techniques and modern creativity. Her work continues to connect people through food, art, and storytelling while celebrating the evolving identity of Korean cuisine on the global stage.

@chefkiki_kim 


◆ About Shinefresh

Shinefresh is a Korean brand specializing in balsamic vinegars crafted from Shine Muscat grapes, known for their natural sweetness and delicate aroma. Combining Korean-grown ingredients with fermentation techniques, Shine Fresh offers a distinctive range of vinegars that bring a harmonious balance of sweetness, acidity, and depth to everyday cooking. From savory dishes to desserts and beverages, its versatile products introduce fresh possibilities for experiencing Korean flavors in contemporary cuisine.

Instagram: @shinefresh_official


 
Taehyun Hwang