Korean Food

Guide Note

Korean food is distinct from neighboring cuisines of Japan and China. It incorporates a large number of side dishes (Banchan) and condiments with the staples of noodles, rice, vegetables, meats, seafoods and soy products.

Fast Facts

1. Most famous dish: Kimchi
2. Authentic Korean restaurants can be found in urban Koreatowns
3. Saengseonhoe is Korea's answer to sushi—raw seafoods served with wasabi and mustard
4. Galbi is Korea's distinct form of barbecue

With the spreading of ethnic Koreans around the world, one of the most unique aspects of Korea's cuisine has gained interest and popularity: kimchi, the peppery fermented cabbage used as a side dish and condiment. Similar to the Eastern European pickle, kimchi grew out of the necessity to preserve vegetables through cold winters, and is traditionally fermented in a container placed in the ground.