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How to order Kimchi Stew (김치찌개) in Korea

Spicy kimchi simmered with pork, tofu, and vegetables in a bubbling earthenware pot. The heat is real but balanced by umami broth.

Kimchi Stew

Say it to order

김치찌개 주세요

Kimchi-jjigae juseyo

Quick facts

In Korean
김치찌개
Say it
kim-chi-jji-gae
Spice
4 of 5
Price
₩10,000–14,000
Time to eat
About 20 min
For first-timers
Easy

How to eat it

Eat directly from the communal pot or transfer to your bowl. The broth is as important as the solids. Top with a raw egg yolk.

Do

  • Wait until the eldest starts eating before you begin.
  • Crack an egg into the broth if offered — it's a sign of respect.

Don’t

  • Don't blow on the food to cool it — burns are part of the experience, sadly.
  • Don't scoop all the good pieces right away — share with the table.

Local tips

  • 묵은지 (aged kimchi) jjigae is deeper in flavor
  • Add ramyeon noodles to the stew for extra satisfaction

Goes with

  • Rice
  • Extra kimchi
  • Egg
  • Soju

Where to try it in Seoul

Questions

How do you order Kimchi Stew in Korean?
Say “김치찌개 주세요” (Kimchi-jjigae juseyo).
Is Kimchi Stew spicy?
Yes — about 4 out of 5 on the spice scale.
How much does Kimchi Stew cost in Korea?
Usually ₩10,000–14,000.
How do you eat Kimchi Stew?
Eat directly from the communal pot or transfer to your bowl. The broth is as important as the solids. Top with a raw egg yolk.

Find Kimchi Stew near you

Jinjja shows real local places, what to order and how to say it — in your language.