Discover Gyeongbuk’s Red Delights: Cherry and Octopus Culinary Experiences for May 2026

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[Inews24 reporter Jinwoo Lee] The Gyeongbuk Cultural Tourism Corporation (President Kim Nam-il) has unveiled the May issue of METI, its food-focused series highlighting seasonal ingredients. Titled “The Red Taste of Gyeongbuk,” the issue puts cherries and rock octopus front and center.

METI is a monthly series that pairs seasonal produce with local food culture. With culinary travel on the rise, the corporation is using it as a strategy to connect tourism with local spending.

Cherries are the signature May fruit around Gyeongju. Despite a short harvest window, they’re increasingly used in desserts and hands-on farm experiences that attract visitors.

A Gyeongju farmer said, “Linking pick-your-own farms with tourism has brought more visitors. It has also helped expand our sales channels.”

Rock octopus is a staple seafood caught along the East Coast from spring through summer. Its chewy texture and rich flavor keep it in high demand at local restaurants and among tourists.

The corporation noted that both ingredients share a vivid red color that boosts visual appeal. Officials believe that striking imagery like this can help extend tourist routes across Gyeongbuk.

President Kim Nam-il said, “We hope visitors will experience Gyeongbuk’s seasonal flavors through cherries and rock octopus.”

However, local stakeholders warn that stronger links between hands-on programs, festivals, and distribution channels are needed. They stress that building systems to turn promotion into actual purchases is crucial.

Related content is available on the Gyeongbuk Cultural Tourism Corporation and Gyeongbuk Nadri websites and their social channels.