One of the most iconic dining experiences in South Korea is Korean BBQ. With sizzling meats, a table full of flavorful side dishes, and the joy of grilling your food to perfection, it’s a must-do for any foodie visiting the country. Whether you’re in Seoul, Busan, or Jeju, this comprehensive Korean BBQ Guide walks you through everything you need to know—from ordering and grilling to essential etiquette.
Why Korean BBQ Is So Popular
Korean BBQ, known locally as “gogi-gui” (고기구이), isn’t just a meal—it’s a shared cultural experience. You’ll sit around a built-in grill, cooking your meat as you chat with friends or family. It’s interactive, social, and packed with flavor. No wonder it’s become one of the top things to try for both locals and tourists.
Types of Meat to Order at Korean BBQ
One of the first things you’ll notice is the extensive meat selection. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular options:
1. Samgyeopsal (삼겹살) – Pork Belly
Thick, fatty slices of pork belly are a staple. No marinade, just grilled and dipped in sesame oil and salt.
2. Moksal (목살) – Pork Neck
Slightly leaner than samgyeopsal but equally juicy. Great for those who want more meat with less fat.
3. Galbi (갈비) – Marinated Beef Short Ribs
Tender beef marinated in soy sauce, garlic, sugar, and fruit. Sweet and savory with a smoky finish.
4. Bulgogi (불고기) – Thin Marinated Beef
A popular option for first-timers, it’s tender beef slices marinated in a sweet and garlicky soy-based sauce.
5. Chadolbaegi (차돌박이) – Thinly Sliced Brisket
These paper-thin slices cook quickly and are perfect dipped in sesame oil or doenjang (fermented soybean paste).
6. Dak Galbi (닭갈비) – Marinated Chicken
Spicy or sweet marinated chicken grilled alongside veggies and sometimes cheese.
Pro Tip: Most places require a minimum order of two servings per meat type.
How to Order Korean BBQ Like a Local
Ordering isn’t as intimidating as it may seem. Follow these tips:
- Start with pork belly or galbi. These are classic and universally loved.
- Don’t over-order. You can always add more meat later.
- Add side dishes (banchan). They’re free and come with any BBQ order.
- Look for combos. Many restaurants offer sets that include several meats and extras like stew or rice.
How to Grill Your Meat Properly
✅ Use Tongs and Scissors
Korean BBQ restaurants usually provide scissors and tongs for a reason—cut your meat into bite-sized pieces as it cooks.
✅ Cook in Batches
Avoid overcrowding the grill. Grill a few pieces at a time to get that perfect sear.
✅ Control the Heat
Most grills are gas or charcoal. If your food is burning or cooking too slowly, ask the server to adjust the heat.
✅ Use the Ventilation
Korean BBQ restaurants have powerful vents above each table. Position it directly over the grill to keep smoke away.
What to Eat with Your Meat
No Korean BBQ is complete without a full spread of side dishes and condiments:
Ssam (Lettuce Wraps)
Place grilled meat in a lettuce leaf with garlic, ssamjang (thick fermented sauce), rice, and kimchi.
Garlic and Peppers
Grill slices of garlic and green chili peppers for extra bite and heat.
Sesame Oil Dip
Simple and delicious—just sesame oil mixed with salt and pepper.
Rice or Noodles
Balance the richness of grilled meat with rice or cold noodles (naengmyeon) on the side.
Soup or Stew
Popular options include kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew) or doenjang jjigae (soybean paste stew).
Popular Korean BBQ Side Dishes (Banchan)
These small plates complement your meal and are often refillable:
- Kimchi – Spicy fermented cabbage
- Pickled Radish – Sweet and tangy
- Japchae – Stir-fried glass noodles
- Kongnamul – Seasoned soybean sprouts
- Gamja Salad – Korean potato salad
- Pajeon – Savory green onion pancake
Dining Etiquette at Korean BBQ Restaurants
Respect local customs to dine like a local:
- Don’t flip meat that isn’t yours. Unless you’re grilling for everyone, avoid reaching over and flipping.
- Use communal tongs. Avoid touching shared food with your chopsticks.
- Refill drinks for others. In Korean culture, it’s polite to pour drinks for friends.
- Eat what you cook. Don’t leave grilled meat sitting for too long—it’s best fresh off the grill.
Korean BBQ for Solo Diners
Traveling alone? No problem. Some chains like Yakiniku Like or Honbap Korean BBQ cater specifically to solo eaters with personal grills.
Top Places to Try Korean BBQ in South Korea
| City | Recommended Spot | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Seoul | Maple Tree House, Wangbijib | Premium beef, foreigner-friendly |
| Busan | Anga, Samgyeopsal Street | Fresh seafood + pork belly combo |
| Daegu | Myeongjin Galbi | Charcoal-grilled marinated ribs |
| Jeonju | Gogung BBQ | Great side dishes and rice wine |
| Jeju Island | Black Pork Street | Unique local pork with volcanic flavor |
FAQs – Korean BBQ Guide
Can I cook the meat myself on Korean BBQ?
Yes! That’s part of the experience. Staff can assist if needed.
What does a Korean BBQ meal cost?
Typically ₩12,000–₩30,000 per person depending on the meat.
Do I need to make a reservation on Korean BBQ?
Not always, but it’s a good idea during peak dining hours.
Are there vegetarian options on Korean BBQ?
Korean BBQ is meat-focused, but banchan and grilled mushrooms are available.
Can I get refills on side dishes?
Yes, and they’re usually free—just ask politely.
Is Korean BBQ spicy?
Not by default, but spicy sauces and marinades are optional.
What’s the difference between bulgogi and galbi?
Bulgogi is thin-sliced beef, galbi is chunkier short ribs—both marinated.
What’s ssamjang?
A thick, flavorful dipping sauce made of soybean paste, chili, garlic, and sesame oil.
Is tipping expected at Korean BBQ restaurants?
No. Tipping is not common in South Korea.
Can I mix different meats on Korean BBQ?
Yes, many places encourage mixing pork and beef for variety.
Are drinks included in Korean BBQ meals?
Usually not. Alcohol and soft drinks are ordered separately.
Can I request to change the grill in Korean BBQ?
Yes. If it gets greasy or burnt, just ask your server to replace it.
Final Thought
Korean BBQ is more than just a meal—it’s a delicious dive into Korean culture. With its interactive setup, communal spirit, and incredible flavors, it’s a culinary ritual worth experiencing more than once. Whether you’re grilling samgyeopsal in Seoul or enjoying galbi in Jeonju, this Korean BBQ Guide ensures you’ll order, eat, and enjoy like a local. So grab your tongs, wrap your ssam, and dig in!