What is Kimchi & Banchan?
Banchan are the small shared side dishes served with a Korean meal. Kimchi is the constant, joined by seasoned vegetables, braised dishes, eggs and more—each adding a different flavor, color and texture.
Popular Banchan
Discover some of the colorful side dishes you may meet at a Korean table.
Napa Cabbage Kimchi
Spinach Namul
시금치나물
Seasoned Bean Sprouts
콩나물무침
Stir-fried Anchovies
멸치볶음
Soy-braised Beef
장조림
Rolled Omelet
계란말이
Braised Potatoes
감자조림
Spicy Cucumber
오이무침
How to Enjoy Kimchi & Banchan
Explore the table one small dish at a time, then find the combinations you enjoy most.
01Explore the Variety
Discover kimchi and banchan made with different ingredients, colors and flavors.
02Pair with Rice
Enjoy banchan with warm rice for a balanced bite of flavor and comfort.
03Try Different Combinations
Mix and match banchan to discover a new favorite combination.
04Enjoy It All Together
Take a little of everything with rice to make the meal feel complete.
For Your Information
Banchan recipes often include soy, sesame, fish sauce or shellfish. Ingredients differ by restaurant, so ask before eating if you have allergies.
TRAVELER TIP
Try different kimchi
Each region has its own kimchi. Taste a few types to find your favorite.
Eat a little of everything
Banchan are meant to be shared. Try a bit of each dish for a fuller experience.
Seasonal flavors
Banchan often change with the seasons, using fresh local ingredients.
It’s a sign of hospitality
A table full of banchan shows care and warmth. It’s how Koreans say “Welcome!” without words.
WHERE TO TRY
Find Kimchi & Banchan in Korea
Every Korean restaurant offers its own banchan story; traditional markets offer the widest variety to take away.
Find nearby restaurants