What Is Banchan? A Complete Guide to Korean Side Dishes for First-Time Visitors

1. Introduction – A Unique Aspect of Korean Food Culture

If you've ever dined at a Korean restaurant, you might have been surprised to see a number of small side dishes placed around the main entrée.

This is a signature aspect of Korean cuisine that often amazes international visitors.

While some Asian countries have side dishes too, few offer as many varieties for free—and with free refills—as Korea does.

These dishes, known as “banchan”, are not just culinary add-ons—they are a symbol of Korea’s communal and deeply rooted food culture.

In this post, we’ll explore what banchan is, what kinds of side dishes are commonly served, and answer the most frequently asked questions from international visitors.

2. What Is Banchan?

Banchan refers to an assortment of small side dishes served alongside a main meal in Korean cuisine.

Traditionally, Korea has been a rice-centered society, and banchan evolved as a way to complement the main bowl of steamed rice.

At home, meals usually include rice, soup, and several side dishes.

At restaurants or during gatherings, banchan is served around a featured dish like grilled meat or seafood.

Here are some key characteristics of banchan:

Free of charge – No need to order separately.

Refillable – Most restaurants offer refills upon request.

Shared at the table – Reflects Korea’s communal dining culture.

3. Popular Types of Banchan

Kimchi

Kimchi is considered the soul of Korean food. It’s a fermented dish made with napa cabbage, chili powder, garlic, and salt.

It may be spicy at first, but once you get used to it, it becomes quite addictive. 

Kimchi is served year-round and is rarely absent from a Korean table.

Seasoned Soybean Sprouts (Kongnamul Muchim)

This healthy and refreshing side dish is made by lightly blanching soybean sprouts and seasoning them with sesame oil, garlic, and salt.

It’s light, nutritious, and often found in dishes like bibimbap, a Korean rice bowl loved by many foreigners.

Seasoned Spinach (Sigeumchi Namul)

Boiled spinach is mixed with sesame oil and soy sauce to create a nutrient-rich, vegan-friendly dish.

It pairs well with grilled meats, but also stands out as a healthy and simple vegetarian option.

Stir-Fried Anchovies (Myulchi Bokkeum)

Thanks to Korea’s access to the sea, seafood-based side dishes are quite common.

This dish features small anchovies stir-fried with soy sauce, garlic, and sugar, offering a savory and slightly sweet flavor—great with rice or as a snack with drinks.

Braised Potatoes (Gamja Jorim)

Soft, sweet, and soy-glazed potatoes make this dish a favorite, especially among children.

It’s a staple in many Korean households and represents the comforting flavors of home-cooked meals.

Note: The variety of banchan is virtually endless. What’s served can vary by region, season, and even household preferences.

4. Why Are Banchan Shared?

Banchan reflects Korea’s deeply rooted communal dining culture.

Instead of serving individual portions, the dishes are placed in the center and shared among everyone at the table.

This not only encourages a sense of togetherness, but also helps balance the meal with various flavors (spicy, savory, sweet) and nutrients.

Combining different textures and tastes is one of the most enjoyable parts of a Korean meal.

5. Home-Cooked Meals vs. Restaurant Banchan

At Restaurants

You’ll typically get between 3 to 10 different banchan, depending on the restaurant and dish.

Refills are free, but it's considered polite to limit repeat requests to avoid burdening staff.

As a rule of thumb:

For a single meal, 1–3 refills per item is reasonable.

For long dinners or BBQ with drinks, more may be acceptable—just avoid asking repeatedly for only one specific item.

At Home

A typical Korean home meal includes steamed rice, soup, and 3–7 banchan.

Kimchi is made in large batches and stored in dedicated refrigerators, then served in small portions.

Most other side dishes are prepared in bulk and eaten over several days to save time and effort.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I order banchan separately?

Not usually. Banchan comes free with your main dish. 

Some restaurants may offer premium side dishes as menu items, but most are served as part of the meal.

Is kimchi considered banchan?

Absolutely. Kimchi is one of the most iconic and essential banchan dishes.

There are many different types, and most are fermented and served in small portions from long-term storage.

Why are there so many side dishes at Korean restaurants?

Historically, Korean cuisine emphasizes variety and balance, and offering multiple side dishes has become a way for restaurants to attract and satisfy customers.

Are banchan vegan-friendly?

Many are. Korean traditional cuisine features a wide range of plant-based side dishes, especially seasoned vegetables and fermented items.

Even in non-vegan restaurants, most banchan are meat-free unless otherwise noted.

7. Final Thoughts

Banchan is not just a side dish—it’s a cultural symbol that reflects the spirit of sharing and balance in Korean food culture.

If you ever get the chance to visit Korea, be sure to embrace the diverse and delicious world of banchan.

It’s more than just food—it’s an experience of hospitality, heritage, and harmony.