1. Introduction
Korean cuisine has gained immense popularity worldwide, particularly in the Philippines, thanks to its prominent presence in dramas, variety shows, and social media platforms like Netflix. The enticing visuals of sizzling barbecues, hearty stews, and vibrant street food have inspired many Filipinos to explore the rich flavors of Korean gastronomy. This guide will introduce the most popular Korean dishes featured in media, their cultural significance, and where to experience them in Korea.
2. Iconic Korean Dishes Featured in Media
2.1 Samgyeopsal (Korean BBQ)
Media Appearance: Featured in multiple K-dramas like Itaewon Class and Descendants of the Sun, where characters gather around sizzling grills to enjoy pork belly slices.
Why Filipinos Love It: Filipinos enjoy grilled dishes like inihaw na baboy, making Korean BBQ a familiar yet unique experience. The interactive dining style, complete with side dishes (banchan), appeals to Filipino food culture.
Where to Try It:
- Seoul: Palsaik Samgyeopsal, Maple Tree House
- Busan: Haeundae Amso Galbi
2.2 Kimchi Jjigae (Kimchi Stew)
Media Appearance: Frequently seen in Crash Landing on You and Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo, often enjoyed as a comfort meal.
Why Filipinos Love It: The sour-spicy kick of fermented kimchi combined with pork and tofu resonates well with Filipino stews like sinigang.
Where to Try It:
- Seoul: Eunjo Kimchi Jjigae, Gwanghwamun Jip
- Incheon: Jinjja Kimchi Jjigae
2.3 Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes)
Media Appearance: Seen in street food scenes in Squid Game and Reply 1988, where characters share warm, spicy rice cakes.
Why Filipinos Love It: The chewy texture and spicy-sweet sauce are reminiscent of Filipino rice-based snacks like kakanin but with an exciting twist.
Where to Try It:
- Seoul: Mukshidonna, Sindang-dong Tteokbokki Town
- Busan: BIFF Square Food Street
2.4 Jjajangmyeon (Black Bean Noodles)
Media Appearance: A must-have for delivery food in Parasite and The Fiery Priest.
Why Filipinos Love It: The thick, savory black bean sauce resembles the umami flavors found in Filipino pancit palabok but with a unique Korean touch.
Where to Try It:
- Seoul: Gonghwachun, Honam Jjajang
- Incheon: Chinatown Jjajangmyeon Street
2.5 Bibimbap (Mixed Rice Bowl)
Media Appearance: Showcased in My Love from the Star, where Jun Ji-hyun's character enjoys a healthy and colorful bowl.
Why Filipinos Love It: Similar to silog meals, bibimbap is a complete dish with rice, protein, and vegetables, making it an easy favorite for Filipinos who love balanced meals.
Where to Try It:
- Jeonju: Hankook Jib, Gogung Bibimbap
- Seoul: Gwangjang Market, Jeonju Jungang Hoegwan
2.6 Bungeoppang (Fish-Shaped Pastry)
Media Appearance: Frequently seen in winter scenes in dramas like Winter Sonata and Love Alarm.
Why Filipinos Love It: The sweet red bean filling is similar to hopia, a well-loved Filipino pastry, making it a nostalgic yet novel treat.
Where to Try It:
- Seoul: Namdaemun Market, Myeongdong Street Food Alley
- Busan: Gukje Market
3. How to Experience Authentic Korean Food in Korea
- Street Food Markets: Visit Myeongdong, Gwangjang Market, or Namdaemun for a variety of affordable Korean snacks.
- Traditional Restaurants: Experience hanjeongsik (full-course Korean meal) at places like Tosokchon Samgyetang or Gaon.
- Café Culture: Try unique Korean pastries, dalgona coffee, and themed cafés such as Line Friends Café or BT21 Café.
4. Navigating Korean Food Without Speaking Korean
Filipinos visiting Korea can still enjoy the food scene without language barriers by:
- Using Translation Apps: Google Translate or Papago can help read menus and communicate with restaurant staff.
- Pointing at Pictures: Many restaurants have picture menus or food displays outside.
- Learning Basic Phrases: Memorizing key phrases like “I want this” (igeo juseyo) can help.
- Checking Online Reviews: Naver, Kakao Maps, or Google Reviews can guide food choices.
5. Conclusion
Korean food is more than just a meal—it’s an experience deeply rooted in culture and storytelling. With its growing popularity among Filipinos, thanks to K-dramas and Netflix, exploring authentic Korean cuisine while visiting Korea becomes a fulfilling and delicious adventure. Whether indulging in smoky samgyeopsal, slurping on spicy tteokbokki, or savoring comforting kimchi jjigae, every dish tells a story worth savoring.