Korean Food for Beginners: What to Try First

Trying Korean food for the first time can feel confusing. Is everything spicy? What is kimchi? What should you order?

The good news is that Korean cuisine includes everything from mild grilled beef to spicy street food.

Here is an easy place to start.

If You Don't Like Spicy Food

Try Bulgogi (불고기).

Thinly sliced beef is marinated in soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and a little sweetness. It is tender, savory, and very beginner-friendly.

Also try: Galbi, Mandu, Japchae.

If You Want a Healthy Meal

Try Bibimbap (비빔밥).

Rice is topped with vegetables, egg, and meat. Add as much or as little gochujang as you like.

If You Love BBQ

Try Samgyeopsal (삼겹살).

Grill pork belly at your table and wrap it in lettuce with garlic, kimchi, and sauce. Korean BBQ is both a meal and a social experience.

If You Love Spicy Food

Try Tteokbokki (떡볶이).

Its chewy rice cakes and sweet-spicy sauce make it one of Korea's most popular comfort foods.

If You Want Something Familiar

Try Korean Fried Chicken.

Choose original crispy chicken or Yangnyeom Chicken, coated in sweet-and-spicy sauce.

Korean Food Words to Know

Kimchi (김치): Fermented vegetables, usually cabbage
Banchan (반찬): Small side dishes served with meals
Gochujang (고추장): Korean red chili paste
Ssam (쌈): Food wrapped in lettuce or another leaf

And remember:

“Masisseoyo!” (맛있어요!) means “It's delicious!”

Korean food may look unfamiliar at first, but discovering new flavors is part of the fun.

Start with one dish, share a few side dishes, and enjoy your first Korean food adventure.

Continue with “Top 10 Traditional Korean Foods” at Trend in Korea.