kimchi is usually very strong for non-koreans. there are many different types and koreans typically eat kimchi in every meal. it is a staple of korean food. kimchi can be stored for a long time and it does not go bad easily. however, when it is exposed to hot weather for certain time, kimchi turns sour. so, it should not be put out unless it is going to be eaten soon. in korea kimchi pots are a common sight. they are large terra cotta pots where the kimchi is stored until it can be eaten or until it ferments. kimchi usually takes about 2 weeks to ferment, but some varieties can be eaten right away. some must be stored for over a year to be finished.