Korean BBQ (KBBQ): Origins, meats, and side dishes to discover

A tradition deeply rooted in Korean culture

Korean barbecue, known as “gogigui” (고기구이), is much more than just a way to cook meat: it’s a true social experience where the meal becomes a time for sharing and connecting with others.

In South Korea, barbecuing plays an important role in daily life. Families, friends, and coworkers gather around a table equipped with a central grill, with everyone taking part in cooking the food and sharing the meal’s various flavors. This way of eating creates a warm and interactive atmosphere: people cook together, chat, and take the time to enjoy the moment.

Unlike a traditional meal where each person receives their own individual dish, the Korean barbecue is based on a simple idea: everyone shares the same table and the same dishes. Cooking becomes a time for interaction, where everyone grills pieces of meat according to their preferences before enjoying them with various side dishes.

This tradition, passed down from generation to generation, highlights essential values of Korean culture: generosity, respect for the ingredients, and above all, conviviality. Korean barbecue is therefore not just a cuisine—it’s a way of coming together.

Must-Try Meats for a Korean Barbecue

At the heart of the Korean barbecue are, of course, the grilled meats, carefully prepared to bring out their full aromatic richness. Several specialties have become iconic in this cuisine.

Samgyeopsal: The Star of Grilled Pork Belly

Samgyeopsal (삼겹살) is one of the most popular dishes in Korea. It consists of thick slices of pork belly, typically served without marinade to preserve the meat’s natural flavor.

Grilled directly on the grill, the slices become crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside. They are then enjoyed in the traditional way: wrapped in a lettuce leaf with a touch of sauce, garlic, vegetables, or a hint of chili pepper.

This blend of textures and flavors—the charred meat, the freshness of the lettuce, and the boldness of the condiments—perfectly captures the spirit of Korean barbecue.

Galbi: Beef Short Ribs with Rich Flavors

Galbi (갈비) is another major specialty of Korean barbecue. It typically consists of beef short ribs marinated in a sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, sugar or honey, sesame oil, and often Korean pear, which adds natural sweetness while tenderizing the meat.

After marinating for a few hours, the meat is grilled until it develops a beautiful caramelized crust. Its sweet-and-salty flavor and slightly smoky notes make it a must-try for lovers of rich, balanced flavors.

Bulgogi: The Delicacy of Marinated Meat

Bulgogi (불고기) literally means “fire meat.” This iconic dish is prepared with thin strips of beef marinated in a fragrant sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, sesame, and other seasonings.

Thanks to this flavorful marinade, the meat becomes exceptionally tender and develops a slightly sweet taste that appeals to both connoisseurs and those discovering Korean cuisine for the first time.

Banchan: The Variety of Korean Side Dishes

A Korean barbecue wouldn’t be complete without banchan (반찬), the many small side dishes served around the grill.

Served in small bowls, banchan offer a wide variety of flavors, colors, and textures. They help balance the meal by providing freshness, crunch, and lightness to counter the more intense flavors of the grilled meats.

Among the best-known side dishes are:

• Kimchi, a staple of Korean cuisine: fermented vegetables, often napa cabbage, seasoned with spices and offering a flavor that’s both tangy and slightly spicy.
• Marinated vegetables, which add freshness and contrast.
• Seasoned bean sprouts, prized for their crunchy texture.
• Salads and small vegetable dishes, which harmoniously complement the meats.

Banchan perfectly illustrates the Korean culinary philosophy: a balanced meal where each element plays a role in the harmony of flavors.

Experience Korean barbecue in Charleroi

At Japanese & Korean BBQ, we wanted to introduce this tradition to as many people as possible by offering an authentic and accessible experience in Gosselies, near the Charleroi-Brussels South Airport.

Our all-you-can-eat buffet lets you customize your meal to your liking: choose your meats and sides, and enjoy the pleasure of grilling them yourself right at your table.

Whether you’re a fan of Asian cuisine or simply curious to discover a new way to share a meal, our Korean barbecue invites you to enjoy a convivial moment where cooking becomes a shared experience.

Come discover the spirit of gogigui in Charleroi: hearty cuisine, an interactive dining experience, and a moment of togetherness to savor as a group.