Choi’s Kimchi, which has been selling kimchi at Portland State University’s farmers market for more than a decade, is raising up to $15,000 to support the growth of farmers who sell at the market, local outlet Koin6 News reported on October 18.
“The tragedy of losing my family has been difficult, but with the support of my family, friends, and community, I’ve been able to pick myself up and get back into the kimchi business,” said Peter Choi, manager of Choi’s Kimchi. “I’m launching the Matthew Choi Farmers’ Market Vendor Grant to help support the growth of Portland-area farmers’ markets and to honor my brother Matthew.”
On October 25, 2020, Matthew Choi, 33, co-founder of Choi’s Kimchi, was stabbed to death by an unidentified assailant who broke into his apartment, sending shocks through the Korean American community and beyond.
“Through this grant, we want to remember and honor Matthew,” says Choi, adding, “I think he would have loved it.”
To help raise funds, Choi’s Kimchi will be selling bibimbap, kimchi, and rice bowls at Portland State University’s Farmer’s Market from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, October 21.
Chong Choi, 68, the founder of Choi’s Kimchi, started the business in 2011 with her son Matthew, who graduated from the University of Oregon, by making kimchi at home. Since then, Choi’s Kimchi has become a favorite on restaurant menus and grocery store shelves across Portland.
BY YEJIN KIM [kim.yejin3@koreadaily.com]
