NASA Astronaut Jonny Kim, of Korean descent, "Missed Kimchi and Rice in Space"

"Korean-American Identity Fostered Empathy... Anticipating Korea's Space Agency"

Jonny Kim attending a NASA press conference after returning to Earth. Captured from a NASA YouTube video.

Jonny Kim (41), a Korean-American astronaut with NASA who returned to Earth on the 9th after completing an eight-month mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS), recalled that he particularly missed Korean foods like kimchi and rice during his time in space.

According to a NASA YouTube video released on the 21st (local time), Jonny Kim stated in a recent online press conference regarding the food he ate on the ISS, "While the Thanksgiving gifts sent from NASA's Johnson Space Center contained excellent food like turkey, I was most grateful for what was included in the 'care package' sent for me," adding, "My family sent things like kimchi, rice, and seaweed."

He continued, "These were the foods I ate growing up, and I could barely eat such things in space," and said, "It was wonderful to be able to feel even a little bit of the taste of home."

Earlier, he had drawn attention by introducing instant rice and kimchi in a post on his Instagram account, showing him preparing food with fellow astronauts during Thanksgiving (November 27th) on the ISS.

Jonny Kim introducing instant rice on the ISS. [Captured from Jonny Kim's Instagram]

When asked about the impact of his Korean-American identity on his life, Jonny Kim replied, "It helped shape who I am today," and added, "I especially think a lot about empathy."

He confided, "Like many first or second-generation Americans with immigrant parents, I felt like I was between two worlds, and growing up that way, it was sometimes difficult to establish my identity. I didn't feel entirely Korean, nor entirely American."

He further explained, "That was a really tough experience, and through those challenges, I developed a deep understanding and empathy for others. It has definitely had a strong impact on the person I am today."

Additionally, he stated, "I am aware that the Korea Aerospace Administration (KASA) has just been launched in Korea. I am very proud and look forward to it. I believe this reflects the benefits that can be gained through continued international cooperation, which NASA has been leading."

When asked about his future plans, he responded, "The main motivation for me becoming an astronaut wasn't actually going to space. While that's a part of the job, my aspiration to serve in scientific exploration through NASA's public service platform was much greater."

He added, "I would like to go to space again, but I don't feel it's something I must do. I am very passionate about maximizing the value of the people I work with and drawing out the best abilities from everyone."

He cited the "aurora," which appeared on Earth due to solar activity, as the most beautiful sight he witnessed from space.

He also remarked, "I witnessed many natural phenomena like hurricanes and tsunamis. Although they are known to cause immense damage to Earth, at that moment, I could feel a sense of grandeur."