A True Passion for Eating and Sharing Food Culture in Korea

Korea’s food culture is a testament to the country’s deep passion for not only delicious meals but also the relationships formed around the dining table.

In Korea, the act of eating together transcends mere sustenance, serving as a vital part of social bonding. A phrase like “Let’s grab a meal someday” is often more than just an invitation to dine; it is an invitation to connect, strengthen ties, and build long-lasting relationships. Although someone might say "Let’s grab a meal sometime," it doesn’t always lead to a follow-up. The phrase is often used as an expression of wanting to get closer, but not all offers to "have a meal" translate into actual plans. If a Korean acquaintance suggests "Let’s have a meal sometime," it's advisable to ask, "When?" This question helps turn the invitation into a real opportunity to share a meal and build a genuine relationship.

The casual greeting “Have you eaten?” mirrors the sentiment of “How are you?” in the Western world. This expression originates from a culture of caring about whether someone has had enough to eat, which has remained a part of Korean culture since the difficult times of poverty.

Mukbang: The Originating Korean Phenomenon

One of the most fascinating global trends stemming from Korea is “Mukbang” (??), or “eating broadcasts.” This phenomenon involves individuals consuming large quantities of food while interacting with their viewers. Initially, it might seem puzzling why people enjoy watching others eat so much, especially when food consumption is often associated with personal enjoyment. I, myself, didn’t understand it at first. But, I discovered the pleasure in watching Mukbang videos featuring cakes and desserts, which I love to eat but avoid overindulging in for health and dietary reasons. It provides a form of vicarious enjoyment. Through Mukbang, the digital space becomes a platform for communal food experiences, where viewers can connect with the joy of eating, even if they’re not physically sharing the meal.

School Meals: An Act of Care and Equality

Korea’s school lunch programs are another reflection of its food culture. The “Master of School Meals” (?? ??), a chef featured on the 'Culinary Class Wars' show, became famous on the show, with two judges complimenting her for the good taste of her food. Korean schools are required to employ licensed nutritionists to oversee meal planning, ensuring that the food provided is nutritionally sound. While some children may not always find the food appetizing, my own daughters rave about their school meals, proudly telling me how delicious they are.

When I was a child, I had to bring packed lunches from home, and our family’s financial limitations often meant that my meals especially side dishes were less varied. A lunchbox was often a sign of one's family’s financial circumstances. However, today, the uniformity of school lunches means that children no longer need to worry about what their peers are eating or their financial background. Additionally, most of schools offer free meals, eliminating the need for students to pay extra for lunch.

Side Dishes (?? Banchan) in Shared Meals

Korean food culture also emphasizes the importance of side dishes or “??” (Banchan), which have become so integral to the meal that they’ve earned a spot in the Oxford Dictionary. Unlike many other cultures where each person eats their own individual dish, Koreans share side dishes on the table. This creates a sense of communal eating.

Due to this culture, the last piece of a side dish on the plate is always a hesitant one to eat. You may think that someone else might want it, so if I end up eating the last piece, I always ask the server at the restaurant for more, just in case someone else might want it. This reflects the Korean value of sharing and consideration. Korean restaurants even provide free refills on water and side dishes, further showcasing the generosity ingrained in Korean food culture.

Generational Perspectives on Food

For older generations in Korea, food symbolizes more than just nourishment—it represents love, care, and resilience. Having lived through periods of food scarcity, particularly after the Korean War, parents and grandparents take immense joy in ensuring their children and grandchildren are well-fed. Grandmothers, in particular, are known for their affectionate, often overwhelming, expressions of love through the preparation of abundant dishes, encouraging their loved ones to eat more.

A personal anecdote captures this sentiment perfectly: After losing just two kilograms after some dieting, my mother, concerned, commented, “You look too thin,” despite no one else noticing the difference.

Korea’s food culture is rich in both flavor and meaning. It’s not just about the meals themselves but the relationships and connections that food helps to foster. Whether it’s the act of sharing a meal, watching Mukbang, or the care that goes into preparing school lunches, food in Korea is a deeply communal and affectionate experience. In a society where food is a symbol of love, care, and resilience, eating is far more than just sustenance—it is a way to connect, share, and express one’s feelings. The next time you hear someone say, “Let’s grab a meal sometime,” in Korea, remember that it’s not just about food, but an invitation to build a meaningful relationship.

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