Irish speaks the truth.

I've bought some kimchi from stores and it's typical mass-production stuff. Ordered some from a place in Brooklyn and it was fantastic. The fresh-made stuff at Shinsegae is really good. It's more pickled than fermented, with a red chile base that can be hot or spicy-mild.

I've been looking for a good Korean place to try in Birmingham. There's at least one on Green Springs I may try next time I'm down.