Cover Understanding banchan is key to appreciating Korean cuisine’s depth and complexity (Photo: Getty Images)
Understanding banchan is key to appreciating Korean cuisine’s depth and complexity (Photo: Getty Images)
1 / 1
These small dishes called banchan carry not just flavours but centuries of history, cultural wisdom, and community values
When you sit down at a Korean restaurant, the first thing that catches your eye isn’t usually the main dish—it’s the colourful array of small side dishes that seemingly cover every inch of the table. Banchan are more than just accompaniments; they’re the backbone of Korean cuisine and carry centuries of cultural significance.
Read more: The health benefits associated with traditional Korean foods
The tradition of banchan dates back to the Three Kingdoms period (57 BCE to 935 CE) and flourished during the Joseon Dynasty (1392 to 1910). In the royal courts, the number of banchan served indicated the importance of the meal or the status of the guest. The king’s table would feature 12 dishes, while noble families might receive nine, and ordinary citizens would have three to five side dishes.
Above Banchan adapts to contemporary needs while maintaining its cultural significance (Photo: Getty Images)
Banchan adapts to contemporary needs while maintaining its cultural significance (Photo: Getty Images)
1 / 1
What started as a way to demonstrate social status evolved into a practical method of ensuring nutritional balance and preserving food. Early Koreans developed various preservation techniques, particularly fermentation, which birthed iconic banchan like kimchi. This practice wasn’t just about keeping food longer–it was also about survival through Korea’s long, harsh winters.
See also: The global rise of kimchi: From Korean staple to international superstar
Some common types of banchan are:
- Namul (나물): Seasoned vegetables, either fresh, blanched, or stir-fried.
- Bokkeum (볶음): Stir-fried dishes.
- Jorim (조림): Braised dishes in soy sauce.
- Jeon (전): Pan-fried foods.
- Jeotgal (젓갈): Fermented seafood.
- Kimchi (김치): Fermented vegetables.
Above Banchan is widely recognised for its unique flavour profiles, health benefits, versatility, and visual appeal (Photo: Getty Images)
Banchan is widely recognised for its unique flavour profiles, health benefits, versatility, and visual appeal (Photo: Getty Images)
1 / 1
Banchan exemplifies core Korean cultural values such as community and sharing, seasonal awareness, and balance and harmony. Unlike individual portions in Western dining, banchan is meant to be shared, fostering conversation and connection among diners. Banchan also emphasises eating seasonally, as spring brings fresh greens for namul, summer offers abundant vegetables for kimchi, autumn provides ingredients for preservation, and winter showcases preserved dishes.
Don’t miss: Guilty pleasures: Foods loved by your favourite Korean celebrities
Today, banchan continues to evolve while maintaining its cultural importance. Nutritionists have praised the banchan system for naturally incorporating numerous health benefits, such as being rich in probiotics due to the fermentation process and a balance of nutrients.
Above Blackpink’s Jennie sharing Korea’s banchan culture through social media (Photo: Instagram/@jennierubyjane)
Blackpink’s Jennie sharing Korea’s banchan culture through social media (Photo: Instagram/@jennierubyjane)
1 / 1
As Korean pop culture and cuisine continue to gain global recognition, banchan stands as a testament to the ingenuity, resourcefulness, and cultural richness of Korean culinary traditions.
NOW READ
17 Korean celebrities with their own YouTube channels
23 Korean celebrities with unofficial “titles” and what they mean
Topics
Best of Tatler Asia video highlights
Featured videos from around Tatler Asia: Get exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the interviews we do, the events we attend, the shoots we produce, and the incredibly important people who are part of our community
Lainey was the Digital Director of Tatler Malaysia. When not whiling away the hours watching documentaries, the latest K-drama, or reruns of Friends, she can be found indulging her wanderlust by stalking travel platforms or feeding her obsession with music. She loves animals, running, all things social media, a good conversation over coffee or soju or wine (often rambling on if nobody pulls the brakes on her), and is an avid fan of bursting-at-the-seams laughter.
