Beyond Beef and Pork! Discover the Diversity of Korean BBQ

Discover the True Diversity of Korean BBQ
- Beyond Beef and Pork

When many travelers think of Korean food, Korean BBQ is often at the top of their must-try list. The image that usually comes to mind is sizzling slices of beef or pork belly grilling over charcoal at the center of the table. While these classics are undeniably delicious, they represent only a small part of Korea’s incredibly diverse barbecue culture.

In Korea, “BBQ” is less about a single type of meat and more about a cooking philosophy—grilling fresh ingredients at the table, sharing dishes communally, and pairing smoky flavors with vibrant side dishes. From duck and seafood to intestines and marinated chicken, Korean BBQ offers an exciting range of tastes and textures that many visitors have never encountered before.

If you want to experience Korean cuisine more deeply, here are five lesser-known Korean BBQ styles you shouldn’t miss.

 

1. Duck BBQ (오리구이) : Rich, Nutritious, and Surprisingly Light

Duck BBQ holds a special place in Korean food culture because it is often associated with health and nourishment. In Korea, duck is considered a “well-being” ingredient, believed to help boost stamina and balance the body.
Unlike heavily marinated meats, Korean duck BBQ is usually seasoned simply with salt, herbs, or a light soy-based sauce to highlight the natural richness of the meat. The fat melts slowly as it grills, creating a crisp outer layer while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

Duck is often served with fresh vegetables, garlic, and wraps of leafy greens, allowing diners to balance the savory flavor with refreshing textures. Many locals enjoy duck BBQ during family gatherings or when they want something indulgent yet wholesome.

What makes it unique:

• Naturally rich but not greasy
• Often associated with healthy eating
• Crispy skin with deeply savory flavor

2. Grilled Fish (생선구이) : A Taste of Korea’s Coastal Tradition

Surrounded by the sea on three sides, Korea has a long tradition of grilling fresh fish. While visitors may associate Korean seafood with soups or raw dishes, grilled fish is one of the most beloved everyday meals.

Fish such as mackerel, cutlassfish, or croaker are lightly salted and grilled until the skin becomes golden and slightly smoky. The simplicity is intentional. It allows the natural flavor of the fish to shine.

This style of BBQ is less about bold marinades and more about balance. It is typically enjoyed with rice, fermented side dishes, and a touch of soy sauce or chili paste.

What makes it unique:

• Clean, natural flavors with minimal seasoning
• Crispy skin and moist interior
• Reflects Korea’s strong coastal culinary heritage

 

3. Eel BBQ (장어구이) : A Luxurious Energy Booster

Grilled eel is often considered a premium Korean BBQ experience. Traditionally eaten during the hot summer months, eel is believed to restore energy and fight fatigue.

Fresh eel is brushed with either salt or a sweet soy-based glaze and grilled over charcoal. As it cooks, the fat renders and caramelizes, producing a slightly smoky, buttery flavor with a delicate sweetness.
The texture is soft and tender, almost melting in your mouth, and it pairs beautifully with perilla leaves, ginger slices, or lightly pickled vegetables to cut through the richness.

What makes it unique:

• Seen as a stamina-boosting food
• Buttery texture with smoky sweetness
• Often enjoyed as a special or celebratory meal

 

4. Chicken BBQ (닭구이) : Bold Marinades and Comforting Flavors

Chicken BBQ offers a completely different experience from beef or pork grilling. The meat is usually marinated before cooking, allowing it to absorb deep flavors.

Popular marinades include:
- Spicy gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- Soy sauce with garlic and ginger
- Sweet and savory combinations

As the chicken grills, the marinade caramelizes, creating a slightly charred, flavorful coating. Compared to red meat BBQ, chicken feels lighter yet still satisfying, making it a favorite among those who enjoy bold seasoning without heaviness.

What makes it unique:

• Intensely flavorful marinades
• Tender texture with smoky caramelization
• A comforting, casual style of Korean BBQ

 

5. Grilled Intestines (곱창구이) : A True Local Favorite

For adventurous eaters, grilled intestines - known as gopchang - offer one of the most distinctive Korean BBQ experiences. While it may sound unusual at first, this dish is beloved by locals for its rich flavor and chewy texture.
The intestines are carefully cleaned, seasoned, and grilled with vegetables such as garlic, chives, potatoes, and onions. As they cook, they release savory juices that create an incredibly deep, almost nutty taste.

The outside becomes slightly crispy while the inside remains soft and elastic, creating a texture unlike any other BBQ dish. It is often enjoyed with dipping sauces, salt, or chili flakes and paired with drinks in a lively, social atmosphere.

What makes it unique:

• Deep, savory flavor prized by locals
• Combination of crispy and chewy textures

Expanding Your Korean BBQ Experience

If you only try beef or pork BBQ while visiting Korea, you’re just scratching the surface. Exploring duck, fish, eel, chicken, or intestines reveals how Korean grilling techniques adapt to different ingredients while maintaining the same spirit of shared dining and bold flavor.

Each variation reflects a different aspect of Korean culture:

• Health-conscious traditions
• Coastal influences
• Seasonal eating
• Love of strong marinades
• Appreciation for texture and depth

So next time you sit down at a Korean grill, be adventurous.
Try something unfamiliar. You may find that the most memorable Korean BBQ experience isn’t the one you expected, but the one you didn’t know existed :)