The bill proposes the official recognition of November 22nd as "kimchi day" in the state of Washington, aligning with similar recognitions in South Korea and other states such as California, Virginia, and Hawaii. The legislation highlights the cultural significance of kimchi, a traditional Korean dish with a history of over 2,000 years, and its health benefits, which include being a source of probiotics and various vitamins. The bill emphasizes the importance of "Kimjang," the process of preparing kimchi, which has been recognized as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO.

To implement this recognition, the bill amends RCW 1.16.050, which outlines state legal holidays. It adds November 22nd as a recognized day, specifically stating it as "kimchi day." This insertion is part of a broader effort to celebrate cultural diversity and acknowledge the contributions of different communities to the state's heritage. The bill does not alter the number of paid holidays for state employees but adds this new cultural observance to the list of recognized days.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 1.16.050