Ask a Korean what kimchi is, and he or she would probably register surprise that you had never heard of it. Ask a Mongolian about kimchi, and they would probably tell you about a traditional Korean food, which in its different varieties is now enjoyed here in Mongolia.
Ask Solongo what kimchi is, and she will probably tell you about Sain Kimchi (Сайн Кимчи or Good Kimchi), a business she started following our seminars in June. Her business makes and sells kimchi locally in Ulaanbaatar.
A full-time student, Solongo is not currently able to produce kimchi in sufficient quantities to meet the demand that her product seems to be generating. But she is considering employing another staff member to help meet this demand. And although her kimchi sales are not yet generating sufficient income to pay her rent, the money she does get is already enough to keep her in the daily necessities of food and other personal expenses. If you are ever in Ulaanbaatar, make sure you sample some Sain Kimchi. You will not be disappointed!
*Meanwhile, over at her felt-making business, also in Ulaanbaatar, Khulan is reporting expansion, and a government contract to teach others this very Mongolian profession. For many of our 'students,' this is the day of small things, and obstacles abound. But the sheer guts and godly determination to learn from adversity and succeed is inspirational.