What Korean Food Should Foreigners Try First? — A Beginner’s Guide to Korean Cuisine

Cheonggukjang (Fermented Soybean Stew)

introduction:

Dear readers, hello! Today, let’s talk about a fun and flavorful topic: “If a foreigner is trying Korean food for the first time, what dish would be the best choice?” Believe it or not, there are many foreigners who have lived in Korea for a long time and can enjoy Korean food even better than some Koreans. Korean cuisine, or hansik, includes some dishes known for their strong aromas — fermented skate (hongeo) and cheonggukjang, for instance, are famous for making first-timers hesitate. But don’t worry too much — most people end up loving them eventually!

One Greek man named Andreas, who has been living in Korea for many years, once recalled his first time in the country. With no acquaintances around, he went to a small, unassuming restaurant in Cheongju, Chungcheongbuk-do, and boldly ordered cheonggukjang. He was so surprised by the taste that he fell in love with it on the spot! No one had told him to order it — it was entirely his choice. The fact that he recognized its deliciousness on the first spoonful speaks volumes about his open-minded taste buds and adventurous spirit.

1.The True Charm of Korean Food: More Than Just Taste

Korean cuisine is not just about satisfying hunger. It’s a reflection of philosophy, lifestyle, and community values. With its standard structure of rice, soup, and side dishes (banchan), Korean meals embody balance and harmony. Seasonal ingredients and fermented foods connect eaters with nature and health in a way that’s deeply rooted in Eastern traditions.

Of course, for those encountering Korean food for the first time, certain aspects — like fermented flavors or unfamiliar textures — can feel a little intimidating. However, Korean food is becoming increasingly popular worldwide, especially for being considered a “healthy cuisine.”

So the big question is: Which Korean dish is the best starting point for a beginner?

2.Start Soft and Warm: Top 5 Korean Dishes for First-Time Foreigners

Korean food features a wide variety of cooking styles — from soups and stews to grilled and stir-fried dishes — and a masterful balance of five key flavors: spicy, salty, sweet, sour, and bitter. Here are five dishes that are both approachable and packed with Korean essence:

2-1. Bulgogi – Korean BBQ Sweet and Savory Style

Thinly sliced beef marinated in soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and other ingredients, then grilled or pan-fried. Bulgogi is one of Korea’s most iconic dishes and closely resembles familiar Western dishes like steak or teriyaki, making it very beginner-friendly.

2-2. Bibimbap – A Colorful, Healthy Bowl

A bed of warm rice topped with assorted vegetables, meat, egg, and usually gochujang (Korean red chili paste), all mixed together before eating. Even vegetarians can enjoy it by skipping the meat and egg. It’s visually stunning and flexible in spice level.

3-3. Kimchi Jjigae – Korea’s Soul in a Bowl

A rich, spicy stew made with aged kimchi, tofu, pork, and sometimes green onions or mushrooms. While the fermented taste might seem intense at first, many foreigners quickly grow to crave its deep, comforting flavor.

2-4. Japchae – Sweet Potato Noodles With a Twist

A beloved Korean party dish, japchae is made from stir-fried glass noodles (made of sweet potato starch) mixed with colorful vegetables and meat. It has a sweet-savory profile and chewy texture that’s usually a big hit with kids and adults alike.

2-5. Samgyetang – Korean Ginseng Chicken Soup

A whole young chicken stuffed with rice, garlic, jujubes, and ginseng, slow-cooked into a rich, herbal soup. Mild and nourishing, it’s especially popular in the summer and suitable for those not yet ready for spicy flavors.

3.Common Traits in Korean Foods That Foreigners Love

Foreigners who fall in love with Korean food often gravitate toward dishes with the following traits:

Less pungent aroma – Foods like fermented skate and cheonggukjang may be flavorful, but their strong smell can be a hurdle for beginners.
Familiar texture – Soft meats, crispy pancakes, and chewy rice cakes are easier for those unaccustomed to new textures.
Balanced flavor – Dishes that aren’t too spicy, salty, or sour — instead offering harmony and subtlety — tend to be more appealing.
Visually appealing – Dishes like bibimbap and japchae offer vibrant, colorful presentations that spark curiosity and appetite.

4.Falling in Love With Cheonggukjang — Just Like Andreas

As mentioned earlier, Andreas’s spontaneous decision to order cheonggukjang — a fermented soybean paste stew — is a great example of open-minded exploration. Despite its bold smell, cheonggukjang is packed with nutrition, particularly protein and probiotics that aid digestion.

Once someone gets past the aroma, the savory richness of this dish becomes apparent. It’s earthy, warming, and deeply satisfying — often becoming a favorite for those who give it a second try.

5.Foreigners Who Love Korean Food Share These Traits

An open mind and adventurous palate
– Willingness to try new things without judgment is the key to unlocking Korean cuisine.
A habit of exploring local restaurants
– Instead of eating only at tourist spots, discovering neighborhood restaurants leads to more authentic experiences.
Having Korean friends or guides
– Sharing a meal with locals who can explain the dishes and their background enhances appreciation and understanding.

6.Why English-Speaking Readers Should Try Korean Food

Health Benefits: Korean food is naturally rich in fiber, probiotics, and vitamins thanks to fermented vegetables, grains, and broths.
Cultural Sharing: Korean meals emphasize shared plates, which foster connection and communication.
Seasonal Harmony: Meals often reflect what’s in season, encouraging a diet in sync with nature.
Tradition and Craftsmanship: Homemade side dishes, fermented sauces, and time-honored recipes give every dish history and heart.

In Conclusion: Korean Food Is More Than a Meal

Trying Korean food is not just about trying something new to eat — it’s about experiencing a different worldview. Korean cuisine tells stories about nature, family, tradition, and health. It represents a way of eating and living that’s both ancient and relevant today.

If you’re an English-speaking reader encountering Korean cuisine for the first time, we hope this article encourages you to start your journey. Begin with a warm bowl of bibimbap, savor the sweetness of japchae, and maybe — just maybe — you’ll one day find yourself falling in love with the bold flavors of cheonggukjang, just like Andreas did.

Welcome to hansik. Welcome to something special.

Dear readers, I hope this article has given you the confidence to explore Korean food. I look forward to seeing you again soon. Thank you!

This is south Korea (이것이 한국이다)