Food & Dining in South Korea
Korean food culture is rich, diverse, and central to social life. Understanding dining customs will enhance your experience.
No Tipping Culture
Important: Tipping is NOT expected in Korea and can even be seen as rude.
- Tips suggest the recipient needs charity
- Service charge is included in prices by law (since 2013)
- Workers receive proper wages from employers
- To show appreciation: leave a 5-star review online instead
Exceptions: Tour guides may accept ₩10,000-20,000/day tip from foreign tourists.
Dining Customs
Banchan (반찬): Free side dishes served with every meal
- Kimchi, pickled vegetables, small dishes
- Unlimited free refills - just ask
- Water and extra rice also typically free
Payment:
- Pay at the counter when leaving, not at the table
- No need to call for the check - just get up when ready
- Card widely accepted; cash at traditional places
Table Setup:
- Utensils often in drawer at table
- Self-service stations for water and sometimes banchan
- Napkins may be thin (Korean style)
Popular Korean Dishes
| Dish | Description | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Korean BBQ (고기구이) | Grill meat at your table | ₩15,000-35,000/person |
| Bibimbap (비빔밥) | Rice bowl with vegetables, meat, egg | ₩8,000-12,000 |
| Jjigae (찌개) | Hot pot stew (kimchi, tofu, etc.) | ₩7,000-10,000 |
| Kimbap (김밥) | Korean rice rolls | ₩3,000-5,000 |
| Samgyeopsal (삼겹살) | Grilled pork belly BBQ | ₩13,000-18,000/person |
| Tteokbokki (떡볶이) | Spicy rice cakes | ₩4,000-7,000 |
| Chimaek (치맥) | Fried chicken + beer | ₩18,000-25,000 (set) |
Food Costs
| Type | Cost per Person |
|---|---|
| Street food | ₩3,000-6,000 |
| Casual restaurant | ₩7,000-12,000 |
| Mid-range | ₩15,000-25,000 |
| Korean BBQ | ₩15,000-35,000 |
| Fine dining | ₩50,000-150,000+ |
Food Delivery
Korea has exceptional food delivery:
- Baedal Minjok (배달의민족): Most popular
- Coupang Eats: Fast, part of Coupang ecosystem
- Yogiyo (요기요): Another major option
Almost everything delivers - even McDonald's, coffee, and late-night food.
Grocery Shopping
Major Chains:
- E-Mart: Largest chain, wide selection
- Lotte Mart: Similar to E-Mart
- Homeplus: Good international section
- Costco: Membership required, Western products
Traditional Markets (시장): Cheaper for fresh produce, meat, seafood. More authentic experience.
Dietary Needs
Vegetarian/Vegan: Challenging - many dishes contain hidden meat/fish products. Apps like "Happy Cow" help find options. Say "고기 빼주세요" (no meat please).
Halal: Available in Itaewon and some areas with Muslim populations. Apps like Zabihah help.
Allergies: Less common awareness than Western countries. Learn to describe allergies in Korean.
Pro Tips
- •Never tip - it's not expected and can cause confusion
- •Banchan side dishes are free with unlimited refills
- •Food delivery is exceptional - apps work even without Korean
- •Traditional markets are cheaper than supermarkets for fresh food
- •Vegetarian options are limited - learn key phrases or use apps
Have questions about food & dining in South Korea?