Top 7 Korean Foods Voted Best by Foreigners (2025 Survey)

Are you an international food enthusiast eager to dive into the vibrant world of Korean cuisine? 🥢 Korea’s culinary landscape is as diverse as it is delicious, captivating palates worldwide with its unique blend of flavors, textures, and traditions. We conducted an exclusive global survey in early 2025, asking hundreds of foreigners about their absolute favorite Korean dishes. The results are in! Get ready to discover the top 7 dishes that have stolen hearts and taste buds around the globe. Whether you’re planning your first trip to Korea or just looking to expand your culinary horizons, this list is your ultimate guide to the must-try Korean foods. Let’s dig in! 😋

1. Korean BBQ (Samgyeopsal & Galbi) 🥩🔥

Unsurprisingly, Korean BBQ claims the top spot! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. The sizzle of the meat on the grill, the aroma filling the air, and the communal act of cooking and sharing make it an unforgettable dining adventure. While there are many types of Korean BBQ, Samgyeopsal (pork belly) and Galbi (marinated short ribs, usually beef or pork) are perennial favorites.

Why it’s a Foreign Favorite:

• Interactive & Social: Diners cook the meat themselves at the table, fostering conversation and fun.
• Flavor Explosion: From the savory, fatty goodness of pork belly to the sweet and tender marinated Galbi, the flavors are universally appealing.
• Customizable Bites: Wrap your grilled meat in crisp lettuce leaves with various banchan (side dishes), garlic, ssamjang (spicy dipping sauce), and kimchi – creating your perfect bite every time! 🥬🧄

Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask the staff for help with grilling if you’re new to it! Pair your BBQ with a bottle of soju or a cold beer for the ultimate Korean dining experience. 🍻

2. Bibimbap (Mixed Rice with Vegetables & Meat) 🍚🌈

Coming in at number two, Bibimbap is as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat. This iconic dish translates to “mixed rice” and consists of a bowl of warm white rice topped with an array of colorful sautéed vegetables (namul), gochujang (chili paste), beef or tofu, and often finished with a fried egg. 🍳

Why it’s a Foreign Favorite:

• Visually Stunning: The vibrant colors of the ingredients make it incredibly appealing.
• Healthy & Balanced: Packed with vegetables, protein, and carbs, it’s a wholesome meal.
• Customizable & Versatile: You can mix in as much or as little gochujang as you like, and variations exist for vegetarians or specific dietary preferences.
• Satisfying Texture: The mix of soft rice, crunchy vegetables, and the rich egg yolk creates a delightful mouthfeel.

How to Enjoy: Add your desired amount of gochujang, then mix all the ingredients thoroughly with your spoon until everything is evenly combined. Enjoy every spoonful! 🥄

3. Kimchi Jjigae (Kimchi Stew) 🌶️🍲

No list of Korean food would be complete without Kimchi Jjigae. This hearty, spicy, and savory stew is a staple in Korean households and restaurants. Made with fermented kimchi, tofu, pork or tuna, and various vegetables, it’s simmered to perfection, offering a comforting warmth with a delightful kick. It’s often served bubbling hot in a stone pot!

Why it’s a Foreign Favorite:

• Authentic Korean Flavor: It’s a true taste of Korea, showcasing the versatility and depth of kimchi.
• Comfort Food: Perfect for cold weather or when you need a comforting, fulfilling meal.
• Spicy & Flavorful: The spice level is often adjustable, but the rich, umami-packed broth is what truly shines.

Pairing Suggestion: Kimchi Jjigae is best enjoyed with a bowl of steamed white rice, which helps balance the spice and soak up the delicious broth. 🍚

4. Bulgogi (Marinated Sliced Beef) 🍖🍯

Bulgogi, meaning “fire meat,” is another universally beloved Korean dish, especially popular among those who prefer less spicy flavors. It consists of thinly sliced beef (or sometimes pork) marinated in a savory-sweet sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and other seasonings. It’s typically grilled or stir-fried.

Why it’s a Foreign Favorite:

• Sweet & Savory Balance: The marinade creates an incredibly rich and balanced flavor profile that appeals to a wide range of palates.
• Tender Texture: The thinly sliced meat becomes incredibly tender when cooked, almost melting in your mouth.
• Versatile Serving: Can be enjoyed with rice, wrapped in lettuce, or even as part of a sandwich or noodle dish.

Fun Fact: Bulgogi is one of the oldest recorded Korean meat dishes, showing its long-standing appeal in Korean cuisine! 📜

5. Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes) 🥢🔥

From the bustling streets of Seoul to vibrant night markets, Tteokbokki is the ultimate Korean street food experience. These chewy rice cakes are drenched in a fiery, sweet, and savory gochujang-based sauce, often accompanied by fish cakes (eomuk), boiled eggs, and green onions. 🥚🍢

Why it’s a Foreign Favorite:

• Addictively Spicy & Chewy: The unique texture of the rice cakes combined with the intense, flavorful sauce is highly addictive.
• Authentic Street Food Experience: It’s an essential part of experiencing Korean daily life and culture.
• Affordable & Accessible: Easily found almost anywhere, making it a convenient snack or light meal.

Spice Level Tip: Tteokbokki can be quite spicy, so if you’re sensitive to heat, look for less spicy versions or have a cooling drink like milk or a Korean soft drink ready! 🥛

6. Korean Fried Chicken (Chimaek) 🍗🍻

Korean Fried Chicken, often enjoyed with beer (a pairing known as “Chimaek”), has become a global sensation, transcending typical fast food. Unlike conventional fried chicken, Korean versions are known for their incredibly thin, crispy, and almost translucent crust, often coated in various sauces like sweet & spicy (Yangnyeom), soy garlic, or plain original.

Why it’s a Foreign Favorite:

• Unrivaled Crispy Texture: The double-frying method creates an unparalleled crunch.
• Diverse Flavors: From classic crispy to sweet, spicy, or savory sauces, there’s a flavor for everyone.
• Perfect Pairing with Beer: The “Chimaek” culture is incredibly popular and adds to the social enjoyment of the meal.

Recommendation: Try a “Bandal Ban” (half and half) order to experience two different flavors at once! 🌓

7. Japchae (Glass Noodles Stir-Fried with Vegetables) 🍜🥕

Rounding out our top 7 is Japchae, a delightful and flavorful dish of stir-fried glass noodles (made from sweet potato starch) mixed with various colorful vegetables (like spinach, carrots, mushrooms, onions), and often beef or tofu. It’s seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil, offering a savory and slightly sweet profile.

Why it’s a Foreign Favorite:

• Unique Chewy Texture: The glass noodles have a satisfyingly chewy and springy texture unlike any other.
• Mild & Flavorful: It’s a fantastic option for those who prefer non-spicy Korean dishes but still crave rich flavors.
• Versatile & Nutritious: A good source of vegetables and can be a standalone dish or a delicious side.

Serving Suggestion: Japchae is often served as a banchan (side dish) at Korean meals, but it’s substantial enough to be enjoyed as a main course too! It’s especially popular during holidays and celebrations. 🎉

Beyond the Top 7: Why Korean Cuisine Captivates the World

The popularity of Korean food isn’t just a fleeting trend; it’s a testament to its inherent qualities. Beyond the fantastic taste, Korean cuisine is often praised for being:

• Healthy: Rich in fermented foods (like kimchi) and fresh vegetables, offering numerous health benefits. 💪
• Diverse: From fiery stews to comforting soups, grilled meats, and intricate side dishes, there’s an endless variety to explore.
• Communal: Many Korean meals are designed to be shared, fostering connection and camaraderie around the table. 🤝
• Culturally Rich: Each dish tells a story, rooted in centuries of tradition and culinary artistry. 🎨

Conclusion: Your Next Korean Culinary Adventure Awaits! ✨

Our 2025 survey clearly shows that foreigners are falling in love with the depth and diversity of Korean cuisine, from the interactive fun of Korean BBQ to the comforting warmth of Kimchi Jjigae and the addictive spice of Tteokbokki. These top 7 dishes are just the beginning of your delicious journey. So, whether you’re dining at an authentic Korean restaurant in your city, planning a trip to Korea, or even trying to cook these dishes at home, we encourage you to embark on your own Korean culinary adventure! ✈️🍽️

What’s your favorite Korean dish? Did it make our list? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to explore more of what this incredible cuisine has to offer!