When it comes to traveling in Korea, food is definitely one of the biggest highlights! Among them, the dish that Japanese tourists passionately say, “You absolutely have to try this!” is samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly).
The experience of grilling thick slices of pork belly until they’re golden brown and wrapping them in fresh vegetables is not only delicious but also satisfying as a hands-on experience. It’s a dish that allows you to fully feel the essence of Korean food culture — so much so that it’s no exaggeration to say it’s a must-eat for anyone visiting Korea for the first time.
In this article, we’ll introduce the charm of samgyeopsal, tips on how to enjoy it, how to order it, and a few interesting facts — all from the perspective of a Japanese traveler.
A Must-Eat in Korea! A Guide to the Charm and Enjoyment of Samgyeopsal
When it comes to traveling in Korea, food is definitely one of the main highlights! Among them, the dish that Japanese tourists always say, “I really want to try this!” and that has won immense popularity is samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly).
Grilling thick slices of pork belly until they’re perfectly golden and wrapping them in fresh vegetables is not only delicious but also satisfying as a fun “experience.” It’s a dish that truly lets you feel the essence of Korean food culture, and it’s no exaggeration to say that for first-time visitors to Korea, it’s an absolute must-try.
In this article, we’ll clearly explain the charm of samgyeopsal, how to enjoy it, tips for ordering, and some interesting facts — all from the perspective of a Japanese traveler.
What kind of dish is it?
Samgyeopsal (삼겹살) literally means “three-layered meat,” referring to the pork belly cut that has alternating layers of meat and fat. Thick slices of this pork are grilled directly on a metal plate at the table — that’s the basic and traditional style.
Freshly grilled samgyeopsal is savory and rich, with juicy, slightly sweet fat that melts in your mouth. When wrapped in lettuce or perilla leaves along with grilled kimchi, garlic, and other toppings, it creates a perfectly balanced burst of flavor in every bite.
Why it’s popular among Japanese visitors
You can enjoy grilling it yourself
At the center of the table is a grill where you cook the meat yourself and eat it wrapped in vegetables whenever you like. It feels almost like enjoying a mini barbecue right at your seat.
You can eat plenty of vegetables
Samgyeopsal isn’t just grilled meat — it’s meant to be eaten together with a generous amount of vegetables. This makes it especially popular among women who appreciate that it feels like a “healthier” way to enjoy meat.
The unique Korean “banchan culture” is charming
Along with your order, many small side dishes called banchan (반찬) are served for free. This is a distinctive part of Korean cuisine — the side dishes come in many varieties and flavors. Plus, in many restaurants, you can get free refills, making it a truly satisfying experience even for first-time visitors.
How to eat it (the basic way)
- Once the grill is hot, place the meat on it to cook.
- When the surface of the meat turns golden brown, use tongs or scissors to cut it into bite-sized pieces.
- Put grilled garlic and kimchi on a fresh lettuce leaf.
- Add a bit of ssamjang (spicy soybean paste), seasoned green onions, and some rice — then wrap it up and enjoy it in one bite!
→ Unlike Japanese yakiniku, where you usually dip the meat in sauce and eat it as is, Korean samgyeopsal focuses on “wrapping and eating.” This small process itself is part of the fun.
If you’re curious about price and value:
- Per serving: 12,000–18,000 KRW (about 1,300–1,900 JPY)
- Most restaurants require a minimum order of 2 servings
- Side dishes (banchan) are included, making the meal more filling than it looks!
- Even in tourist areas, reasonably priced restaurants are common. Adding naengmyeon or stew usually keeps the total under 2,000 JPY per person.
It’s a meal with excellent value, leaving a memorable experience from your trip.
Korean phrases you can use when ordering:
- 이거 더 주세요 (Igeo deo juseyo)
→ “Please give me a little more of this”
This is a versatile phrase you can use for any side dish or vegetable. Just point with your finger while saying it, and it usually works. - 물 좀 주세요 (Mul jom juseyo)
→ “Please give me water”
Some restaurants are self-service, but if you ask, they’ll bring it. - 김치 주세요 (Kimchi juseyo)
→ “Please give me kimchi”
If your side dishes are running low, don’t hesitate to ask. Many places provide refills for free. - 계산이요 (Gyesan-iyo)
→ “Check, please”
When your meal is finished, this one phrase is enough.
Recommended side dishes to enjoy together:
- Naengmyeon (냉면)
The combination of grilled meat and cold noodles is one of the most classic pairings in Korea! Refreshing and perfect for cleansing your palate. - Doenjang-jjigae (된장찌개)
A spicy soybean paste stew with plenty of vegetables and tofu. Perfect for warming up on a cold day. - Rice (밥, Bap)
If the meat alone isn’t enough, order rice and wrap it together with the grilled meat for an even tastier experience.
Samgyeopsal is a “culture” in itself.
In Korea, samgyeopsal is more than just food—it’s a part of the culture.
It’s an essential dish for moments of togetherness with family, friends, or colleagues. Gathering around the table, grilling the meat together, wrapping it in fresh vegetables, and sharing laughter—that’s the biggest charm of samgyeopsal.
The lively atmosphere of the restaurant, combined with the savory aroma filling the air, makes each bite a moment that truly says, “I’m in Korea!”
Summary: No worries even for first-timers! A 100% satisfying Korean experience
Samgyeopsal is not just a simple pork dish.
The joy of grilling it yourself, the fun of wrapping it with various ingredients, and the excitement of trying a little Korean—all of this becomes part of your travel memories. Eating, laughing, and experiencing it makes you want to have it again before you know it.
Whether it’s your first visit or you’ve been to Korea many times, make sure to fully enjoy authentic samgyeopsal on your next trip!
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