Rockfish is Not to Blame: Exploring a Coastal Village [Kim Chang-il's Exploration of Coastal Villages] (147)

At the Ansan Folk Museum in South Korea, a unique exhibit features fish commonly destined for the dinner plate. Among them, a rockfish (Jeomseong-eo) has resided in a tank for 21 years, a testament to the museum's dedication to its aquatic inhabitants. However, this longevity comes at a significant cost. The museum dedicates over 100 million won annually to maintaining the aquariums, covering expenses like electricity for temperature control and regular cleaning by divers.

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Water temperature control, cleaning costs by divers twice a month, and feed purchase costs exceed 100 million won annually.

The narrator, initially mistaking the fish for typical restaurant stock, was surprised to learn of the rockfish's extended stay. The guide, a retired elementary school principal who began working at the museum in 2011, explained that the rockfish, once part of a group of five, has adapted to its controlled environment. "These fish, having lived for over 20 years with consistent water temperatures and provided food, cannot survive if released back into the sea," he stated, highlighting the aquarium as the fish's entire world.

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This rockfish has lived in the aquarium for 21 years, so considering the maintenance costs, it can be said to be an incredibly expensive fish.

This prolonged life in captivity sheds light on the rockfish's often-misunderstood reputation. Historically, it has been passed off as more expensive varieties like snapper or sea bream due to similar red flesh. While subtle differences in texture and flesh color exist, they are often lost on consumers, especially when chefs employ techniques to mask them. The article advises diners to check the aquarium species and menu carefully, as restaurants may substitute rockfish for sea bream to increase profit margins, given its lower cost and higher yield.

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These fish, having lived for over 20 years with consistent water temperatures and provided food, cannot survive if released back into the sea.

Ultimately, the piece argues that the rockfish itself is blameless. The issue lies not with the fish, but with the dishonest practices of those who deceive customers. The author advocates for clear labeling, stating that if rockfish is offered honestly, there is no problem. The long-lived rockfish in the museum serves as a quiet reminder of the value and resilience of these often-misrepresented creatures.

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The rockfish is not at fault; it is the person who sells it by deceiving people that is bad.