10 Must-Try Korean Dishes Seen in Your Favourite K-Dramas

Annyeong! Fellow K-drama and food lovers, we know that watching Korean dramas can often leave you feeling hungry and craving the delicious food featured on the screen. Whether it’s the sizzle of meat on the grill or the aroma of a hot and spicy stew, K-dramas have introduced us to some truly iconic Korean dishes that we just can’t get enough of. We’ve picked out the top 10 most mouth-watering Korean dishes featured in K-dramas, so get excited as we dive into the world of Korean cuisine!

1. Korean Fried chicken

Who can resist the satisfying sound of that crispy crunch from Korean Fried Chicken? This crispy and juicy dish has made its way into so many Korean dramas, and it’s easy to see why. Coated in a sweet and spicy sauce or simply salted, Korean Fried Chicken is a must-try for any foodie. Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack or a full meal, Korean Fried Chicken is a delicious and addictive dish that’s sure to please.

Drama Name: My Roommate Is a Gumiho

2. Bibimbap

Ah, Bibimbap – the ultimate colorful and healthy Korean dish that’s been featured in so many K-dramas! Bibimbap literally means “mixed rice,” and it’s a bowl of warm rice that’s topped with an array of veggies, meat, and a fried egg. Mix it all together with some spicy gochujang sauce, and you’ve got yourself a delicious and nutritious meal. Not only is Bibimbap easy on the eyes, but it’s also a tasty and healthy option that’s perfect for any time of the day. So, if you’re a fan of Korean dramas and haven’t tried Bibimbap yet, you’re definitely missing out!

Strong Woman Do bong soon and bibimbap
Drama Name: Strong Woman Do Bong Soon

3. Ramyeon

Ramyeon, the beloved instant noodle dish, is a staple in Korean cuisine and a common feature in many K-dramas. Did you know that in Korea, ramyeon has a romantic connotation? It’s considered a popular late-night snack for couples, often shared together as a sign of intimacy and affection. Whether you’re enjoying a bowl on your own or sharing it with someone special, ramyeon’s comforting and nostalgic flavours are sure to hit the spot.

mr queen holding a pot of ramyeon
Do you want to have ramyeon before you go? 🙂 – Drama Name: Mr Queen

4. Jajangmyeon

Jajangmyeon is a classic Korean-Chinese dish that features thick, chewy noodles smothered in a rich, savory black bean sauce with stir-fried pork and vegetables. It’s a comfort food that’s perfect for a cozy night in, and it’s a popular dish to order for delivery in Korea. You might have seen characters in K-dramas indulge in a big bowl of Jajangmyeon while drowning their sorrows or celebrating a hard-earned victory.

Jajangmyeon – Photo by Ruth Georgiev

5. Kimchi

As the national dish of Korea, this spicy fermented cabbage is a staple in Korean cuisine and frequently appears in kdramas. This fermented dish is made from napa cabbage, radish, or cucumber, and is seasoned with spicy chili powder, garlic, and fish sauce.

In Korean dramas, you’ll often see characters enjoying kimchi as a side dish with their meals or using it as a topping for their ramyeon. If you haven’t tried kimchi yet, you’re missing out on a flavorful and healthy addition to your meals!

Boys over flowers. Jun Pyo eating kimchi
Drama Name: Boys Over Flowers

6. Kimbap

Kimbap is a popular Korean dish that’s often compared to sushi. It consists of rice and various fillings such as vegetables, egg, and meat rolled up in seaweed. It’s a healthy and convenient snack or meal option that can be enjoyed on-the-go. In K-dramas, kimbap is often seen as a staple food for picnics or as a quick bite while studying or working.

Extraordinary Attorney Woo eating kimbap
Drama Name: Extraordinary Attorney Woo

7. Seaweed soup

Seaweed soup is a traditional Korean dish that is often enjoyed on special occasions such as birthdays and after giving birth. It’s made by boiling seaweed in a flavourful broth with beef or seafood and served with rice. The soup is known for its light and refreshing taste, and it’s believed to have numerous health benefits.

It's Okay to Not Be Okay. eating seaweed soup
Drama Name: It’s Okay to Not Be Okay

8. Korean BBQ

Korean BBQ, also known as “gogi-gui,” is a meat lover’s dream. This style of cooking involves grilling various types of meat, such as beef, pork, and chicken, right at your table. You can enjoy the meat on its own or wrap it in lettuce leaves with garlic, sauces, and other toppings to create a delicious and interactive eating experience. In K-dramas, we often see characters gathered around a Korean BBQ grill, enjoying the deliciousness and bonding over the experience.

Hospital playlist and korean bbq scene
Drama Name: Hospital Playlist

9. Jeon

Jeon is a must-try Korean dish that you’ll often see on the table during special occasions or gatherings. It’s a type of savory pancake that’s made by frying a mixture of vegetables, meat, or seafood in a batter made of eggs, flour, and water. The result is a crispy and flavorful pancake that pairs well with a dipping sauce.

Some of the most famous Jeons are Kimchi Jeon, Haemul Pajeon (seafood pancake), Buchu Jeon (chive pancake), and Gamjajeon (potato pancake). Jeon can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or even as a main dish. It’s a comfort food that’s enjoyed by many Koreans and K-drama fans alike!

Jeon
Jeon – Photo by Kim Deachul

10. Tteokbokki

Tteokbokki is made from chewy rice cakes that are cooked in a spicy gochujang sauce with fish cakes and veggies. It’s a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture, and it’s perfect for anyone who loves a little heat in their food.

Tteokbokki is a popular street food in Korea, but it’s also enjoyed in homes and restaurants all over the country – and other parts of the world. If you’re a fan of Korean dramas and haven’t tried Tteokbokki yet, you’re missing out on one of the most iconic and delicious dishes in Korean cuisine!

Yumi's cells eating tteokboki
Drama Name: Yumi’s Cells

There you have it, 10 iconic Korean dishes that have graced the screens of K-Dramas and have become popular all over the world. Whether you’re a fan of Korean dramas or just looking to expand your culinary horizons, these dishes are definitely worth a try. So, grab a friend or two, and head to a Korean restaurant near you to experience the deliciousness that is Korean cuisine.

Most of the shows from the images can be watched on Netflix or Viki!


Don’t forget to share this article with your fellow K-drama fans and let us know in the comments which iconic Korean dish is your favourite!