The Gap Analysis of Recognition and Preference for Korean Traditional Foods and Restaurants between Foreign Visitors and Foreign Residents

This study was prepared to present the research data for the promotion of Korean foods and restaurants in Korea and abroad by an analysis of the recognition and preference of Korean traditional foods and an importance-performance analysis of Korean restaurants by foreign visitors (n=351) and foreign residents (n=365). The most recognized Korean foods among foreigners were Bibimbap>Kimchi>Bulogi>Galbi>Samgyetang;however, the most preferred Korean foods were statistically different; Bibimbap>Kimchi>Bulgogi>Galbi>Rameyeon by foreign visitors and Bulgogi>Bibimbap>Galbi>Samgyetang>Kimchi by foreign residents. Especially, the preferences for Samgyetang and Dakgalbi were increased whereas that for Kimchi was decreased in foreign residents. The Korean foods were described as 'hot and pungent' and 'spicy' by foreign visitors, but 'hot and pungent', 'non-greasy' and 'salty' by foreign residents. In choosing a restaurant, 'quality of food' was most important among foreigners, but 'proper price' was considered more significant than 'sanitation and cleanness' by foreign residents compared with foreign visitors. The satisfaction with Korean restaurants of foreign residents was lower than that of foreign visitors. An analysis of importance and performance of Korean restaurants by foreigners was performed. There were significant differences in the evaluations of Korean restaurants between foreign visitors and foreign residents (p