Grilled Fish (생선구이): what it is and how to order it in Korea
Whole fish, usually mackerel or salted yellow croaker, grilled until the skin is crisp and the flesh flakes off the bone. It is a homestyle staple, simple and deeply satisfying with rice.
Say it to order
고등어구이 주세요
Godeungeo-gui juseyo
Quick facts
How to eat it
Pull the flesh off the bone with your chopsticks, add a little rice, and eat it with the side kimchi. Use the provided scissors or a spoon to deal with the head and tail.
Do
- Share the fish and sides with everyone at the table.
- Use chopsticks to lift flesh away from the bone, and place bones on a side plate.
Don’t
- Don't stick chopsticks upright in rice.
- Don't flip the whole fish over on the plate; pick the bottom side clean from the bone instead.
Local tips
- Grilled fish is often served with a grated radish side that helps cut the oiliness.
- Ask for the fish to be cut into pieces if you find bones intimidating.
Goes with
- Soju
- Makgeolli
- Soybean paste stew
- Steamed rice
- Radish kimchi
- Kimchi
Where to try it in Seoul
Questions
- How do you order Grilled Fish in Korean?
- Say “고등어구이 주세요” (Godeungeo-gui juseyo).
- Is Grilled Fish spicy?
- No. Grilled Fish isn’t spicy.
- How much does Grilled Fish cost in Korea?
- Usually ₩11,000–18,000.
- How do you eat Grilled Fish?
- Pull the flesh off the bone with your chopsticks, add a little rice, and eat it with the side kimchi. Use the provided scissors or a spoon to deal with the head and tail.
Find Grilled Fish near you
Jinjja shows real local places, what to order and how to say it — in your language.