In this study, we have shown that culture-independent
methods can be successfully applied to a
mixed food environment such as kimchi. It is clear
from our results that even though W. koreensis is the
predominant species in three samples, the bacterial
community structure differs between mature kimchi
samples, probably depending on the initial ingredients
that serve as natural LAB inocula. The data presented
in this study should provide a useful framework for
further studies of the population dynamics of kimchi
fermentation, the use of starter cultures, control of the
fermentation process and long-term preservation.