🍲 How to Read a Korean Menu – Deep Dive Guide
🍲 K-Restaurant Secrets: Order & Dine Like a Seoulite
No tips, free refills, and the magic of the hidden table drawer.
✨ 1. The Joy of Korean Dining: Free Banchan & No Tips
One of the best things about eating in Korea is the Banchan (반찬 - Side dishes) culture. In almost every restaurant, small dishes of kimchi, sprouts, and veggies are served for free.
- Free Refills: If you finish your Banchan, you can always ask for more ("Banchan deo juseyo") or look for a "Self-bar" to refill them yourself.
- No Tipping: Tipping is not required and is not part of Korean culture. The price you see on the menu is exactly what you pay—tax is already included!
📱 2. The Tech Era: Kiosks and Table Tablets
In 2026, many restaurants have moved away from human servers for ordering.
- Entrance Kiosks: You might find a large touchscreen at the door. Order and pay first, then take your receipt and sit down.
- Table Tablets: High-end or busy restaurants often have a small tablet attached to every table. You can browse the menu with photos and order without saying a word!
🥢 3. Where are my Chopsticks? Check the Drawer!
If you don't see spoons or chopsticks on the table, don't worry! Look at the side of your table (either right or left). Most Korean restaurants have a hidden drawer under the tabletop where napkins and cutlery are neatly stored.
🙋 4. From "Imo" to "Jeogiyo": Calling the Staff
Korean titles for staff are deeply cultural. In the past, especially in pubs or traditional taverns, customers called middle-aged female owners "Imo" (이모 - Maternal Aunt).
Why "Imo"? It wasn't because they were family, but to show a sense of closeness and friendliness.
Today's Standard: Nowadays, the most common and polite way to get attention is simply saying "Jeogiyo" (저기요 - Excuse me). If there is a "Bell" on the table, just press it once!
👩🏫 Teacher Hoon's expert Tips
To really win the hearts of restaurant owners, say this one phrase before you leave: "잘 먹었습니다!" (Jal meogeosseumnida!). It means "I have eaten well," and it's the ultimate sign of respect and gratitude for the chef. They will definitely remember you with a smile!
🚀 Master Restaurant Culture 1:1
Ready to try ordering on a kiosk or want to practice your dining greetings? Let's simulate a full meal scenario together! Book a "Korean Dining Mastery" session with Hoon on italki today.
Prepare for K-Food LifeLooking for more survival tips? Check our complete guide on housing, banking, and life in Korea:
Ultimate Guide to Living in Korea 2026Updated: December 24, 2025 | Part of the "Living in Korea: Dining & Culture" Master Series.
