Let’s explore the structure and how to use the Blue Ribbon Survey
Among those interested in traveling to Korea or Korean gastronomy, many people probably refer to the Michelin Guide Seoul edition when looking for restaurants. But did you know that Korea has another gourmet guide that is highly regarded by locals? Its name is the Blue Ribbon Survey.
Within Korea, it is also called the “Korean Michelin,” and it is a gourmet guide widely trusted among Koreans who are particular about food. In this article, I will explain in detail the Blue Ribbon Survey’s features, its evaluation method, how to use it, and the differences from Michelin.
What Is the Blue Ribbon Survey?
The Blue Ribbon Survey is Korea’s first large-scale gourmet evaluation guide, launched in 2005. The name “Blue Ribbon” symbolizes high quality, and restaurants are ranked based on a comprehensive evaluation of food, service, and atmosphere, represented by the number of blue ribbons they receive.
This guide is updated annually and includes thousands of restaurants, cafés, and bakeries, mainly in Seoul but also across the country.
Key Feature: Real Evaluations from Experts and the Public
The most distinctive feature of the Blue Ribbon Survey lies in its evaluation method.
✅ Instead of using secret inspectors, it collects reviews from a wide range of food enthusiasts and everyday diners who have actually visited the establishments.
✅ It covers a broad range of cuisines, from traditional Korean dining to cafés, snacks, and desserts.
✅ Ratings are shown as ribbons (up to 3) — simple and easy to understand.
In short, the Blue Ribbon Survey is a balanced blend of expert insight and public taste, making it a guide that truly reflects the authentic opinions of Koreans.
What the Ribbon Ratings Mean
The Blue Ribbon Survey’s hallmark is its ribbon-based rating system.
These blue ribbons carry a meaning similar to Michelin stars, but the evaluations focus more on real-life dining experiences.
| Ribbon | Meaning | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 🟦 1 Ribbon | Good | Above-average food and service; notable for value or atmosphere. |
| 🟦🟦 2 Ribbons | Excellent | Great taste, good service, and strong overall appeal; many repeat customers. |
| 🟦🟦🟦 3 Ribbons | Outstanding | Exceptional in all aspects — a “must-visit” restaurant. |
Ratings are determined through collective evaluations by hundreds of reviewers, including food writers, culinary researchers, and ordinary gourmets.
Because of this system, bias is minimized, and restaurants that many people genuinely want to revisit tend to receive higher ratings.
Differences Between the Blue Ribbon Survey and the Michelin Guide
| Category | Blue Ribbon Survey | Michelin Guide |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Korea (launched in 2005) | France (launched in 1900) |
| Evaluation Method | Surveys from general diners + experts | Professional secret inspectors |
| Rating Symbol | Blue Ribbons (up to 3) | Stars (up to 3) |
| Coverage | From casual eateries to fine dining | Focused on fine dining |
| Local Representation | High (reflects Korean tastes) | Lower (often influenced by foreign perspectives) |
| Trust Level (in Korea) | Very high | Sometimes viewed as “for tourists” |
Thus, the Blue Ribbon Survey is considered a highly trusted source for authentic Korean dining information, offering a realistic view of the country’s food scene.
Where to Find It: How to Use the Blue Ribbon Survey
📗 Book Edition (Published Annually)
- Available at major bookstores and online retailers (YES24, Kyobo Bookstore, etc.)
- Organized by region with maps for easy navigation
- Available only in Korean (as of 2025, no English or Japanese editions yet)
📱 Mobile App (iOS/Android)
- Search for “Blue Ribbon Survey” and download the app
- Use GPS to find highly rated restaurants nearby
- Search by category or rating level
🌐 Official Website
http://bluer.co.kr
- Offers the latest reviews and limited-time listings not included in the print version
Why It’s Useful and How to Make the Most of It
✅ For Residents in Korea
- A reliable reference when exploring new restaurants
- A guide to help avoid disappointing dining experiences
✅ For Travelers
- Discover local favorites not listed in Michelin
- Includes many everyday Korean eateries, not just high-end restaurants
Recommended For:
- Those who want to deeply understand Korean food culture
- Readers who can read basic Korean (since the guide is Korean-only)
- Travelers seeking restaurants outside of Seoul
- Food lovers who feel “Michelin alone isn’t enough”
Summary
The Blue Ribbon Survey is a trustworthy gourmet guide filled with authentic evaluations from Korean diners. Compared to the Michelin Guide, it offers a more local perspective, covering everything from casual eateries to high-end restaurants.
For those who frequently travel to Korea or live there, it can truly be considered a “bible of gastronomy.”
Next time you wonder, “Where should I eat in Korea?” be sure to check out the Blue Ribbon Survey.
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