✅ Introduction
Korean BBQ (often called “Gogi-gui”) is one of the most iconic food experiences in Korea. For first-time travelers, it’s not just a meal — it’s an exciting dining ritual with grilling, dipping sauces, side dishes, lettuce wraps, and shared plates.
한국식 바비큐(고기구이)는 한국 여행에서 절대 빼놓을 수 없는 최고의 음식 경험입니다. 고기를 굽고, 쌈을 싸고, 반찬을 곁들이는 과정까지 모두 하나의 문화이자 즐거움이죠.
This guide will show you exactly how locals enjoy Korean BBQ, including what to order, how to grill properly, how to make wraps, and key dining etiquette. Follow this guide and you’ll eat Korean BBQ like a true local!
이 가이드는 한국에서 현지인처럼 BBQ를 즐기기 위해 알아야 할 주문 방법, 굽는 법, 쌈 싸는 법, 반찬 활용법, 에티켓까지 모두 정리했습니다.
✅ 1. Popular Korean BBQ Meats to Order
➖ Samgyeopsal (Pork Belly)
The most famous Korean BBQ cut. Thick slices, juicy, and perfect with lettuce wraps.
➖ Moksal (Pork Neck/Shoulder)
Slightly chewier with deep flavor. Koreans love this cut.
➖ Galbi (Marinated Beef Ribs)
Sweet soy-marinated beef with a soft texture.
A must-try for beginners.
➖ Bulgogi (Thinly Sliced Marinated Beef)
Mild, sweet, and great for those who don’t prefer smoky flavors.
➖ Ggupdegi or Butcher’s Cuts
Specialty cuts that vary by restaurant—locals try these more often.
✅ 2. How to Grill Meat Like a Local
✔ Don’t flip too often
For samgyeopsal, locals flip the meat only 1–2 times to keep the juices inside.
✔ Cut the meat only when needed
Use scissors to cut meat into bite-size pieces once the outside becomes crispy.
✔ Use the hot spot of the grill
BBQ grills have hotter areas. Place thicker cuts in the center and thin slices on the edges.
✔ Ask staff for help
Most BBQ restaurants will happily assist with grilling.
Just say:
➡ “Could you help with the grill?”
(한국어: “고기 좀 구워주실 수 있나요?”)
✅ 3. How to Make the Perfect Ssam (Korean Lettuce Wrap)
A classic Korean BBQ experience includes making ssam (쌈).
Ssam Basic Formula:
- Take a lettuce leaf
- Add grilled meat
- Add a bit of ssamjang (soybean chili paste)
- Add garlic, kimchi, or green onions
- Wrap tightly
- Eat in one bite (Korean style!)
Pro Tips
- Don’t overfill the wrap
- Add grilled kimchi for deeper flavor
- Add a slice of raw garlic for an authentic taste (optional)
✅ 4. Must-Try Side Dishes with Korean BBQ
✔ Kimchi (Fresh or Grilled)
Grilling kimchi on the side adds smoky flavor.
✔ Green Onion Salad (Pa Muchim)
Balances the fattiness of the meat.
✔ Cold Noodles (Naengmyeon)
Locals often finish BBQ with cold noodles—refreshing and delicious.
✔ Doenjang Jjigae (Soybean Paste Stew)
Served with rice; completes the meal.
✔ Pickled Radish Sheets (Musaengchae/Muchim)
Wrap meat inside to cut the oil.
✅ 5. Korean BBQ Dining Etiquette
✔ Share everything
Korean BBQ is communal. Everyone shares meat and side dishes.
✔ Don’t touch other people’s chopsticks areas
Use tongs for raw meat only.
✔ Don’t waste food
Many restaurants charge extra for leftover meat.
✔ Expect smokiness
Your clothes may smell of BBQ — it’s perfectly normal in Korea!
✅ 6. Useful Korean Phrases for BBQ Restaurants
- “Samgyeopsal 2 servings, please.”
→ 삼겹살 2인분 주세요.
- “Not spicy, please.”
→ 덜 맵게 해주세요.
- “Can you change the grill plate?”
→ 불판 좀 갈아주세요.
- “More side dishes, please.”
→ 반찬 더 주세요.
✅ Conclusion
Korean BBQ is a highlight of any trip to Korea, offering great food, cultural experience, and a fun social atmosphere. With this guide, you can grill confidently, order like a local, and enjoy every part of this iconic meal.
한국식 BBQ는 단순한 식사가 아니라 한국 문화를 가장 맛있게 경험할 수 있는 특별한 순간입니다. 이 가이드만 따라도 한국인처럼 잘 굽고, 맛있게 먹고, 쌈도 완벽하게 만들 수 있습니다.
Whether you're trying samgyeopsal for the first time or exploring hidden cuts, Korean BBQ will become one of your favorite travel memories.
여행 중 단 한 번만 선택해야 한다면, 한국 BBQ는 언제나 최고의 선택입니다!