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1. Introduction: Why Do Koreans Start Their Meals with Soup?
One of the things that surprises foreigners in Korean restaurants is the habit of drinking soup first before eating side dishes or rice.
This cultural practice is deeply rooted in Korean food history, health benefits, and traditional dining customs. In this article, we will explore why soup is so important in Korean meals and how this tradition began.
2. Main Section: The Background and Characteristics of Korea’s Soup Culture
1) The History of Korea’s Soup Culture
Korea’s soup culture has been around for centuries. During the Joseon Dynasty, clear soups like gomtang (beef bone soup), seolleongtang (ox bone soup), and thicker broths like doenjang-guk (soybean paste soup) and miyeok-guk (seaweed soup) were commonly eaten.
🔹 Traditional Reasons
- Soup helps keep the body warm and aids digestion.
- Since Korea has four distinct seasons, warm soups naturally developed as a way to endure the cold winters.
🔹 The Korean Table Setting
- Unlike in Western cuisine, where meals are often served as separate courses, Korean meals are served all at once with various side dishes (banchan).
- This means soup is an essential part of the meal, rather than just a side dish.
2) Why Do Koreans Drink Soup First?
In many countries, soup is usually served as an appetizer before the main dish. However, in Korea, soup is a fundamental part of the meal itself.
💡 Reasons Koreans Start with Soup
✔ Protects the Stomach: Just like Koreans eat miyeok-guk (seaweed soup) for breakfast, warm soup helps prepare the stomach for food.
✔ Enhances Flavor: A sip of soup before eating helps awaken the taste buds.
✔ Cultural Habit: Many Koreans grow up hearing their parents say, "Drink some soup first!" before starting a meal.
3) Popular Korean Soup Dishes
Korea has a wide variety of soups, each with its own unique flavor and purpose. Here are some famous Korean soups:
| Soup Dish | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Doenjang-guk (Soybean Paste Soup) | Made from fermented soybeans, great for gut health. |
| Kimchi Jjigae (Kimchi Stew) | Spicy and flavorful, a classic Korean comfort food. |
| Seolleongtang (Ox Bone Soup) | A rich, milky broth simmered for hours, often eaten with kkakdugi (radish kimchi). |
| Miyeok-guk (Seaweed Soup) | Traditionally eaten on birthdays and after childbirth. |
| Samgyetang (Ginseng Chicken Soup) | A popular summer dish to boost energy and stamina. |
3. Conclusion: Soup Culture as a Reflection of Korean Hospitality
In Korea, soup is not just food—it’s a symbol of warmth, care, and hospitality.
✔ Many Korean families tell their loved ones, “Have another sip of soup!” as a way of showing concern.
✔ Serving hot soup to guests is a way to welcome and take care of them.
Many foreigners who try Korean soup dishes appreciate their deep flavors and health benefits.
4. Final Thoughts: Try Korea’s Soup Culture Yourself!
As you can see, Korea’s soup culture is not just a dining habit—it reflects history, health, and tradition. If you ever visit Korea, make sure to try starting your meal with a warm sip of soup!
👉 What’s your favorite soup? Let us know in the comments! 😊