Top 10 Most Popular Korean Foods
Thanks to the global rise of K-culture (K-pop, dramas, and more), Korean food is gaining recognition worldwide. Here are the dishes foreigners enjoy the most, based on flavor, accessibility, and cultural interest.
Bulgogi (불고기)
Thinly sliced beef marinated in soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and grilled.Sweet and savory — one of the most approachable Korean dishes.
Often described as “Korean BBQ,” very popular among Americans.
Bibimbap (비빔밥)
Mixed rice bowl with vegetables, meat, egg, and spicy gochujang (red pepper paste)Visually appealing and nutritionally balanced.
Loved by vegetarians and health-conscious eaters.
Kimchi (김치)
Fermented cabbage or radish with chili, garlic, and fish sauce.A strong, spicy, and tangy flavor — addictive once you get used to it.
Known for its probiotic health benefits.
Samgyeopsal (삼겹살)
Grilled pork belly served with lettuce wraps, garlic, and dipping sauces.A must-try Korean barbecue experience.
Popular with tourists as a fun, interactive meal.
Tteokbokki (떡볶이)
Chewy rice cakes and fish cakes in a spicy-sweet red chili sauce.Frequently seen in K-dramas, making it familiar to global fans.
Comes in various spice levels for all types of eaters.
Chimaek (치맥: Chicken + Maekju/Beer)
Korean-style crispy fried chicken paired with cold beer.
Popularized globally by the drama My Love from the Star.
Many foreigners call Korean fried chicken the best in the world.
Gimbap (김밥)
Seaweed-wrapped rice rolls with vegetables, meat, and pickled radish.Similar to sushi but uniquely flavored with sesame oil and gochujang.
A convenient snack or light meal — perfect for tourists.
Budae Jjigae (부대찌개 – Army Stew)
A spicy stew made with spam, sausage, instant noodles, kimchi, and tofu.A fusion of American ingredients with Korean flavors.
Especially popular among Americans for its familiarity and spice.
Japchae (잡채)
Stir-fried glass noodles with beef and assorted vegetables in soy-based sauce.Sweet, savory, and chewy — often served at holidays and parties.
A great vegetarian option as well.
Seolleongtang / Galbitang (설렁탕 / 갈비탕)
Rich, milky beef broth soup (Seolleongtang) or clear soup with beef short ribs (Galbitang)Light and comforting — ideal for first-timers.
Often enjoyed as a recovery or wintertime dish.
🌟 Why Foreigners Love Korean Food
Bulgogi
Sweet soy marinade
Familiar and easy to enjoy
Bibimbap
Healthy & colorful
Veg-friendly, nutritious
Tteokbokki
Spicy snack
Iconic street food in K-dramas
Kimchi
Fermented & spicy
Health benefits + unique flavor
Fried Chicken
Extra crispy
Different from Western-style chicken