Ep 1. South Korea

In Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown season 5 episode 1, viewers are taken on a journey through South Korea with the late Anthony Bourdain as their guide. Bourdain begins his exploration of the country in the bustling capital city of Seoul, where he tastes some of the best street food the city has to offer. From gooey rice cakes to spicy fried chicken, Bourdain samples a range of dishes while providing insight into Korean cuisine and its impact on global food trends.

Bourdain also takes viewers on a tour of Seoul's traditional markets, exploring the various vendors and ingredients that make Korean dishes so unique. In one standout scene, Bourdain dines with a group of Koreans who have a deep interest in American culture, including hip-hop and rap music. This exchange provides a fascinating glimpse into the cultural exchange between the two countries and how it has influenced Korean cuisine.

The episode takes a deeper dive into Korean culture as Bourdain travels to Jeju Island, known for its stunning natural beauty and unique cuisine. There he meets with locals who forage for ingredients to create dishes like abalone porridge and black pork belly. He also learns about the island's traditional female divers, who free dive without any modern equipment to harvest seafood from the ocean floor.

Throughout the episode, Bourdain provides a nuanced look at South Korea's complex history, including the country's division after World War II and the ongoing tensions with North Korea. He meets with scholars and journalists to discuss how these factors have shaped modern-day South Korea and how the country is navigating its place in the world.

Overall, Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown season 5 episode 1 offers a vibrant look at South Korean culture, cuisine, and history through the lens of one of the industry's most beloved figures. His thoughtful observations and contagious passion for exploring new cultures make this episode a must-watch for anyone interested in learning more about South Korea.