Blanched Octopus (문어숙회): what it is and how to order it in Korea
Whole octopus briefly boiled and sliced into tender, mildly sweet pieces, usually served chilled or at room temperature. A popular soju snack that shows off the clean, fresh flavor of Korean seafood.
Say it to order
문어숙회 주세요
Muneo sukhoe juseyo
Quick facts
How to eat it
Pick up a piece with chopsticks, dip it in the sesame oil and salt or red chili sauce, and eat it in one bite.
Do
- Pour drinks for others and let them pour for you.
- Eat the octopus with chopsticks, not your fingers.
Don’t
- Don't leave the chopsticks standing upright in your rice.
- Don't chew the octopus loudly; the texture is meant to be tender.
Local tips
- Ask for the sauce on the side if you prefer it mild.
- Octopus is often served chilled, so it tastes best fresh from the table.
Goes with
- Sliced cabbage
- Cucumber
- Sliced onion
- Soju
- Makgeolli
Where to try it in Seoul
Questions
- How do you order Blanched Octopus in Korean?
- Say “문어숙회 주세요” (Muneo sukhoe juseyo).
- Is Blanched Octopus spicy?
- Yes — about 1 out of 5 on the spice scale.
- How much does Blanched Octopus cost in Korea?
- Usually ₩25,000–40,000.
- How do you eat Blanched Octopus?
- Pick up a piece with chopsticks, dip it in the sesame oil and salt or red chili sauce, and eat it in one bite.
Find Blanched Octopus near you
Jinjja shows real local places, what to order and how to say it — in your language.