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K-Food Culture

Korean BBQ: Why the World Loves It

by Alice Eats Korea 2025. 5. 9.

If there’s one thing that makes Korean cuisine unforgettable, it’s definitely Korean BBQ. Whether you’re in Seoul, New York, or London, Korean BBQ has taken the world by storm. As someone who meets a lot of foreigners, I can confidently say — Korean BBQ is always a hit!

"Korean BBQ grilling beef over charcoal on a traditional metal grill, served with side dishes like pickled vegetables and green salad. A person uses tongs to flip the meat while smoke rises."
Korean BBQ

"There's just something magical about grilling your own meat right at the table."

What Makes Korean BBQ So Special?

Korean BBQ isn’t just about the food — it’s an experience. You gather around a sizzling grill, cook your own meat, and share the meal with friends and family. The smell of marinated beef, the sound of sizzling pork belly, and the sight of perfectly grilled meat make Korean BBQ a feast for the senses.

Why Do Foreigners Love Korean BBQ?

  • Interactive Dining: Cooking at the table is not just fun, but it also creates a lively, communal atmosphere.
  • Variety of Meats: From marinated beef (bulgogi) to pork belly (samgyeopsal), the choices are endless.
  • Customizable Wraps: Lettuce, perilla leaves, rice, and ssamjang — everyone can make their perfect bite.
  • Flavor Explosion: Sweet, salty, savory, and smoky all in one bite.

Most Popular Korean BBQ Dishes

  • Bulgogi (불고기): Thinly sliced marinated beef, grilled to perfection.
  • Samgyeopsal (삼겹살): Pork belly slices, grilled without seasoning, to enjoy the pure flavor.
  • Galbi (갈비): Marinated beef or pork ribs, sweet and savory.
  • Chadolbaegi (차돌박이): Thinly sliced brisket, cooked quickly for a juicy bite.
  • Makchang (막창): Grilled beef or pork intestines, crispy and flavorful.

Samgyeopsal (삼겹살) - Korean Pork Belly
Makchang - Grilled beef or pork intestines, crispy and flavorful.
Chadolbaegi (차돌박이) - Thinly sliced brisket, cooked quickly for a juicy bite

How to Enjoy Korean BBQ Like a Local

  • Grill it Right: Don’t overcrowd the grill — let each piece cook evenly.
  • Perfect Your Wrap: Add meat, a slice of garlic, ssamjang, and wrap it in lettuce.
  • Pair it with Soju: No Korean BBQ is complete without a shot of soju or a cold beer.
  • Don’t Skip the Banchan: Side dishes like kimchi, pickled radish, and salads enhance the meal.

Final Thoughts: Korean BBQ - A Global Favorite

It’s no surprise that Korean BBQ has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of people around the world. The combination of interactive dining, bold flavors, and diverse meat options makes it an unforgettable experience. Next time you’re craving something hearty and flavorful, gather some friends and fire up the grill!

What's your favorite Korean BBQ dish? Let me know in the comments below!

Ssam - Add meat, a slice of garlic, ssamjang, and wrap it in lettuce or any vegetable leaf