From Kimchi Stew to Kimbap, Here's How You Can Taste the Culture You Watch
K-Dramas don't just captivate us with stories — they make our mouths water. Every steamy bowl of ramyeon, sizzling grill of samgyeopsal, or colorful spread of side dishes leaves us wondering: "Where can I try that?!"
Good news — many of these iconic dishes are now more accessible than ever across the U.S. Let's explore 10 Korean foods that frequently appear in K-Dramas and how you can enjoy them without hopping on a plane.
1. Kimchi Jjigae (김치찌개) — Kimchi Stew
Why it's famous: A spicy, savory stew made with fermented kimchi, pork, tofu, and veggies. A staple in almost every K-drama kitchen scene.
Where to get it in the U.S.: Found at most Korean restaurants, or make it yourself with kimchi from H Mart or other Asian markets.
2. Bibimbap (비빔밥) — Mixed Rice Bowl
Why it's famous: Colorful veggies, seasoned beef, fried egg, and gochujang (spicy red chili paste) served over rice. It's healthy, delicious, and deeply symbolic of Korean balance.
Where to get it in the U.S.: Easily available at Korean restaurants; DIY versions are popular with meal kits online.
3. Tteokbokki (떡볶이) — Spicy Rice Cakes
Why it's famous: Chewy rice cakes in a fiery-sweet gochujang sauce. Often eaten in school settings or as late-night snacks in dramas.
Where to get it in the U.S.: Check Korean street food spots, or buy instant kits from Amazon or Korean grocery stores.
4. Samgyeopsal (삼겹살) — Grilled Pork Belly
Why it's famous: The ultimate Korean BBQ scene food. Sizzling meat wrapped in lettuce with garlic, ssamjang, and a cold beer.
Where to get it in the U.S.: Try Korean BBQ restaurants in Koreatowns or set up a tabletop grill at home with meat from a Korean butcher.
5. Kimbap (김밥) — Korean Seaweed Rolls
Why it's famous: Like sushi, but with a Korean twist — rice, veggies, and proteins rolled in seaweed. Great for lunch boxes and picnic scenes.
Where to get it in the U.S.: Available at Korean bakeries, delis, and some Asian supermarkets.
6. Sundubu Jjigae (순두부찌개) — Soft Tofu Stew
Why it's famous: Silky tofu in a spicy broth with seafood, pork, or beef. Served bubbling hot in stone pots.
Where to get it in the U.S.: A favorite at Korean restaurants — look for places that specialize in tofu soups.
7. Japchae (잡채) — Glass Noodles Stir-Fry
Why it's famous: Sweet potato glass noodles stir-fried with colorful veggies and beef. Often served at celebrations and dinner scenes.
Where to get it in the U.S.: Usually found as a side dish at Korean eateries or made fresh at home.
8. Chimaek (치맥) — Fried Chicken and Beer
Why it's famous: Nothing beats crispy Korean fried chicken paired with an ice-cold beer. A drama staple during heartbreak, bonding, or just plain fun.
Where to get it in the U.S.: Korean chicken chains like Bonchon, bb.q Chicken, or small local joints.
9. Bulgogi (불고기) — Marinated Beef BBQ
Why it's famous: Thin slices of beef marinated in sweet-savory soy-based sauce, grilled or pan-fried.
Where to get it in the U.S.: Restaurant menus or marinated packs at Korean grocery stores.
10. Haemul Pajeon (해물파전) — Seafood Scallion Pancake
Why it's famous: Crispy outside, soft inside, and loaded with seafood and green onions. Usually seen on rainy day scenes with makgeolli (Korean rice wine).
Where to get it in the U.S.: Order it at Korean restaurants, or make your own with pancake mix from the store.
🛒 Where to Buy Korean Ingredients in the U.S.
- H Mart — Nationwide Korean grocery chain with everything you need
- Lotte Plaza Market — East coast Asian supermarket with extensive Korean products
- Paloma Market — Popular Korean grocery store found in several states
- Korean markets on Instacart — Great for home delivery
- Online stores — Sites like Weee!, Yamibuy, or Korean specialty sites ship nationwide
✨ Final Thoughts
Watching K-Dramas isn't just about the romance and cliffhangers — it's a gateway to a whole culinary culture. With Korean cuisine becoming increasingly accessible, there's no better time to bring those flavors to your own table.
So next time your favorite character dives into a bowl of jjigae, don't just watch — dig in!
Have you tried any of these Korean dishes? Which one is your favorite K-Drama food moment? Share in the comments below!
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