Korean Study : Useful Phrases of BANCHAN

When you eat in Korea, one thing that makes the dining table look so abundant is 반찬 (banchan)the small side dishes served with rice and soup. From kimchi and seasoned vegetables to pancakeand pickles, banchan varies depending on the season and each restaurant’s style.

A unique part of Korean dining culture is that side dishes can usually be refilled for free. If you run out, you can ask for more. Some restaurants even have a self-service station for banchan.

Here are some useful Korean phrases you can use at restaurants:

Useful Expressions at Restaurants

반찬 더 주세요. 

[Pronunciation: ban-chan deo ju-se-yo]

Meaning: More side dishes, please. 

이 반찬 더 주실 수 있나요?

 [Pronunciation: e ban-chan deo ju-sil su it-na-yo?]

Meaning: Could I have some more of this side dish? 

김치 더 주세요. 

[Pronunciation: gim-chi deo ju-se-yo]

Meaning: More kimchi, please.

Sometimes You’ll Hear: “반찬은 셀프입니다.”

Sometimes, when you ask the staff for more side dishes, you might hear: ban-chan-eun self im-ni-da. This means there is usually a self-serve station in the restaurant. You can walk over and take as much banchan as you like. It’s very common in casual Korean restaurants.

반찬은 셀프입니다. 

[Pronunciation: ban-chan-eun self im-ni-da]

Meaning: Side dishes are self-serve.

반찬은 셀프 리필입니다. 

[Pronunciation: ban-chan-eun self ri-pil im-ni-da]

Meaning: Side dishes are self-serve.

 

 

Why Banchan Is Special

In Korea, banchan is not just a side item. It’s an important part of the meal that brings balance and harmony to Korean food. Sharing banchan at the table also reflects Korea’s
communal dining culture.
If you visit Korea, don’t hesitate to ask for refills or serve yourself when it’s self-service. It’s a natural part of the experience — and a delicious one, too!

For a deeper understanding, 

take a look at the related blog post on Korean side dish culture. 

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Click the picture!

Want to learn more Korean phrases about banchan? Leave a comment below!

😁