Planning a party or a special gathering? These 30+ Korean dishes are some of my all-time favorites to make for guests. From sizzling Korean BBQ and crispy pancakes to colorful sides, rice dishes, and cozy desserts, this collection has something for every table and every occasion.
Korean party food is full of bold, comforting flavors, and it has a way of making even simple get togethers feel warm and festive. Whether you’re preparing a casual dinner or hosting a bigger celebration like Thanksgiving or Christmas, you’ll find plenty of dishes here that are easy to serve, crowd friendly, and always a hit.
In the sections below, you can browse appetizers, mains, rice dishes, sides, desserts, and drinks. Mix and match a few, and your menu will come together beautifully!
Appetizers & Finger Foods
Start your gathering with these delicious Korean appetizers. They’re light, fun, and full of flavor, and they’re the perfect way to get everyone excited for the meal ahead.
1. Korean Glass Noodle Stir Fry (Japchae, 잡채)
This iconic dish is beloved for its chewy glass noodles and irresistible savory sweet flavors. Traditionally served during Korean holidays like Seollal (Korean New Year’s day) or Chuseok (Korean harvest festival day), japchae is not just a treat for the taste buds. It’s the ultimate crowd pleaser! (Get the recipe: Japchae)
2. Sweet and Spicy Korean Potsticker Salad (Bibim Mandu, 비빔만두)
Crispy dumplings paired with a vibrant salad and a zesty dressing? Yes, please! The mix of spicy, tangy, and sweet flavors is so addictive it’ll energize your guests and leave them craving more. (Get the recipe: Bibim Mandu)
3. Fried Seaweed Rolls (Gimmari, 김말이)
Gimmari, a Korean street food favorite, features crispy, golden seaweed rolls filled with seasoned glass noodles. They have the perfect balance of crunch and savory goodness, and they’re irresistible in every bite. (Get the recipe: Gimmari)
4. Kimchi Pancake (Kimchi Jeon, 김치전)
Introduce your guests to the bold flavors of kimchi in the most approachable way. Crisp, tangy, and richly savory, these pancakes are perfect for cocktails or pre-dinner chatter. They’re also a great way to use up that aging kimchi you’re not quite sure what to do with. (Get the recipe: Kimchi Pancake)
5. Seafood Pancakes (Haemul Pajeon, 해물파전)
For seafood lovers, this appetizer is pure joy. Tender seafood wrapped in a perfectly crispy batter, and every bite is guaranteed to impress. Seriously, even people who know nothing about Korean food will enjoy this one. (Get the recipe: Seafood Pancake)
6. Korean Fish Cake Balls (Eomuk, 어묵)
If you’re not sure how you feel about fish cakes, this one will change your mind. Packed with protein, it’s savory, delicious, and so easy to enjoy. Kids adore it, and it’s sure to impress your guests. (Get the recipe: Korean Fish Ball)
7. Rice Cake and Sausage Skewers (Sotteok Sotteok, 소떡소떡)
Sotteok Sotteok is a popular Korean street food made with savory sausages and chewy rice cakes, skewered and glazed in a sweet and spicy sauce. This fun, flavorful snack is perfect for parties and always a hit with guests. (Get the recipe: Sotteok Sotteok)
8. Korean Radish Wraps (Mussammari, 무쌈말이)
Light, refreshing, and so pretty, these mussammari wraps are made with pickled radish paper rolled around your choice of vibrant veggies and savory protein.
They’re fun to eat, surprisingly easy to make, and offer a crisp, satisfying bite that balances richer dishes beautifully. Your guests will love them. (Get the recipe: Korean Radish Wrap)
Korean BBQ & Mains
There’s no doubt that delicious Korean BBQ dishes will steal the show at your next party. Everyone loves these savory crowd-pleasers, and the recipes below are guaranteed to have your guests coming back for seconds.
9. Bulgogi (Korean BBQ Beef, 불고기)
Tender beef slices marinated in a luscious blend of soy, garlic, sesame oil, and nashi pear, bulgogi is buttery-soft, fragrant, and adored by all. Grill it fresh for its signature smoky flavor or serve it pre-cooked for no-fuss entertaining. Either way, its sweet and savory taste is utterly irresistible, and I haven’t met anyone who doesn’t love it. (Get the recipe: Bulgogi)
10. LA Galbi (Korean BBQ Short Ribs, 엘에이 갈비)
LA Galbi is another popular Korean BBQ dish made with beef short ribs. You can grill it or broil it in the oven, and it turns out beautifully either way. There’s so much to love about ribs that it’s hard to pick just one thing. And for anyone with a playful spirit, licking the meat off the bone is honestly one of the best parts. (Get the recipe: LA Galbi)
11. Spicy Korean Pork (Jeyuk Bokkeum, 제육볶음)
Craving something fiery? This stir-fried pork dish explodes with the heat of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) and the deep umami of gochujang (Korean chili paste). Marinated in a bold, flavor-packed sauce and cooked until smoky and caramelized, it delivers a kick that’s absolutely worth sweating for. It also happens to be my husband’s favorite Korean dish, and I have a feeling it might become one of yours too. (Get the recipe: Jeyuk Bokkeum)
12. Baked Korean BBQ Ribs
Try these delicious oven-baked Korean BBQ beef ribs! Slow cooked at a low temperature for 8 hours, the meat turns incredibly tender and practically falls off the bone. And the aroma as they cook is amazing – rich, savory, and completely mouthwatering. (Get the recipe: Baked Korean BBQ Ribs)
13. Instant Pot Korean Short Ribs
Korean short ribs cooked in an Instant Pot are mouthwateringly delicious. The meat falls off the bone and turns incredibly succulent and flavorful, and the vegetables cooked alongside are just as wonderful. It’s one of those dishes guests always rave about and thank you for again and again. (Get the recipe: Instant Pot Korean Short Ribs)
If you only have a slow cooker, try my Slow Cooker Korean Short Ribs instead. And if you prefer pork over beef, check out my Instant Pot Korean Pork Ribs recipe.
14. Momofuku Bo Ssam (Korean Roast Pork)
Momofuku Bo Ssam is a dish originally created by Chef David Chang. It is made with pork shoulder that has been cured and slowly roasted at a low temperature. This dish is incredibly popular, and for good reason. It tastes amazing!
The pork turns out moist and tender, with a beautiful balance of salty, sweet, and savory flavors. It was a big hit with my family when I served it during our Christmas holidays a few years ago. (Get the recipe: Momofuku Bo Ssam)
15. Korean Cheese Ribs (Cheese Deung Galbi, 치즈 등갈비)
Bold, spicy, and irresistibly indulgent! This dish is a guaranteed showstopper. Tender baby back ribs are braised in a rich, gochujang-infused sauce that balances heat, sweetness, and savory depth. And just when you think it cannot get any better, a blanket of molten, creamy cheese melts over the top and adds the most gooey, luscious finish! If you are looking for an amazing dish to impress your guests, this is it! (Get the recipe: Korean Cheese Ribs)
16. Korean Fried Chicken (양념통닭)
This globally adored delicacy needs no introduction! Coated in a super crunchy batter and glazed with an addictive homemade sweet chili sauce, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any occasion. (Get the recipe: Korean Fried Chicken)
For a kid-friendly option, Soy Garlic Chicken is a great pick, and Air Fryer Chicken Wings or Baked Chicken Wings are perfect for health-conscious guests. Whichever you choose, this dish guarantees everyone will be coming back for seconds!
17. Korean Sweet and Sour Pork (Tangsuyuk, 탕수육)
Double-fried for extra crispiness and coated in a glossy, tangy-sweet sauce, this Korean twist on sweet and sour pork is comforting and irresistible, making it perfect for any occasion. Often served at party buffets, it brings flair to your table and is so delicious that your guests will be clamoring for more! (Get the recipe: Tangsuyuk)
Rice & Rolls
Korean rice dishes are wonderfully versatile and visually stunning. You can enjoy them as hearty main courses, tasty side dishes, or even as impressive bite-sized appetizers.
18. Bibimbap (비빔밥)
Bibimbap is undoubtedly one of the most beloved Korean rice dishes, and it’s easy to see why. This vibrant, all-in-one meal is as versatile as it is delicious, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion. Packed with perfectly balanced ingredients such as savory meat, fluffy rice, crisp vegetables, and the signature bibimbap sauce that ties everything together, it is a dish that truly has it all.
Want to take it up a notch for your next cocktail party? Serve it creatively in tall cups! This fun presentation does not just look chic. It also lets guests mingle and move around while enjoying every flavorful bite. (Get the recipe: Bibimbap)
19. Korean Rice Rolls (Kimbap, 김밥)
Easy to eat, endlessly customizable, and bursting with flavor, kimbap rolls are every party host’s secret weapon. Imagine tender seaweed wrapped around perfectly seasoned rice, with fillings ranging from savory bulgogi to creamy tuna.
Each bite is a little celebration of taste and texture, making them ideal for social gatherings. They are sure to steal the spotlight! (Get the recipes: Bulgogi Kimbap, Tuna Kimbap, Yubu Kimbap, Mini Kimbap and Easy Kimbap)
20. Yubuchobap (유부 초밥)
These fried tofu pockets stuffed with sweet and tangy rice are as adorable as they are delicious. Perfect for mingling guests or as a flavorful main dish, Yubuchobap delivers an irresistible balance of sweetness, a touch of saltiness, and savory notes all in one bite. Their addictive, moreish nature will have everyone reaching for just one more. (Get the recipe: Yubuchobap)
Sides & Salads
Complete your feast with simple yet irresistibly flavorful Korean side dishes that perfectly complement any spread. From light, refreshing salads to savory vegetable banchan, each dish adds color, balance, and a little burst of happiness to the table.
21. Fresh Kimchi Salad (Baechu Geotjeori, 김치 겉절이)
Fresh and vibrant, this kimchi salad offers a refreshing twist on traditional kimchi. While classic kimchi is known for its bold, spicy flavors and pungent aroma developed through fermentation, this salad is meant to be enjoyed fresh. It has a much milder taste and smell.
With its irresistible crunch and subtly spiced flavor, this salad pairs beautifully with Korean BBQ, adding the perfect balance of texture and zest to your meal. (Get the recipe: Fresh Kimchi Salad)
22. Korean Cucumber Salad (오이 샐러드)
Spicy, sweet, and tangy, this cucumber salad is the ultimate versatile side dish. It brings a refreshing kick to your plate, making it the perfect companion for BBQ dishes, crispy fried chicken, or even tacos.
With its bold yet balanced flavor profile, it satisfies spice lovers while offering just the right hint of sweetness and tanginess. Readers often tell me they make this salad for their cookouts, and it is always a crowd-pleaser no matter the cuisine. (Get the recipe: Korean Cucumber Salad)
23. Pickled Carrots and Daikon Radish
Give this super versatile pickled carrots and daikon radish a try! It’s the perfect side dish for Korean BBQ, burgers, sandwiches, and more. You can pair it with just about anything! It’s also hugely popular within the My Korean Kitchen community. (Get the recipe: Pickled Carrots and Daikon Radish)
24. Korean BBQ Dipping sauce (Ssamjang, 쌈장)
If you’re planning a Korean BBQ feast, don’t forget the must have dipping sauces that bring each bite to life. These sauces are not just condiments. They are the magic that enhances every smoky, grilled morsel.
They come in three unforgettable flavor profiles. One is rich and spicy with a gentle kick of heat. Another is salty and sweet for a perfectly balanced treat. The last is salty and savory for a deep, umami-packed finish. Each sauce adds its own unique flair, turning your BBQ spread into an indulgent experience your guests will not stop raving about! (Get the recipe: Korean BBQ Dipping Sauce)
25. Kelp Noodle Salad (Cheonsachae Salad, 천사채 샐러드)
This Korean kelp noodle salad is a versatile dish that you can enjoy on any occasion. It is made with gluten-free, low-calorie kelp noodles, and it is crunchy, light, and delicious. It also pairs beautifully with Korean BBQ and many other Korean dishes. This super easy salad is sure to be a hit with everyone! (Get the recipe: Kelp Noodle Salad)
26. Spicy Korean Coleslaw
This is not your ordinary coleslaw. It is a Korean cabbage salad that is easy to make and bursting with flavor. With the perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and tanginess, plus a satisfying crunch, it is a side dish that truly steals the show. Serve it with Korean BBQ, or use it to add bold, zingy flavor to tacos and burgers. (Get the recipe: Spicy Korean Coleslaw)
Desserts / Drinks
Wrap up your party on a sweet note with irresistible Korean desserts and drinks. These traditional delights will captivate your guests and leave them with a memorable taste of Korea.
27. Korean Cinnamon Punch (Sujeonggwa, 수정과)
This warm spiced drink, known as Korean cinnamon punch, is made from cinnamon, ginger, and sugar. It’s the ideal way to cap off a rich meal, offering a refreshing and aromatic experience. Popular during Korean festive holidays, this sweet drink has a mild gingery bitterness and is known to aid digestion, making it perfect for special occasions. (Get the recipe: Sujeonggwa)
28. Korean Rice Punch (Sikhye, 식혜)
Sikhye, a sweet and slightly nutty traditional Korean rice drink, offers a soothingly cool and refreshing experience. Made by fermenting malted barley and steamed rice, this golden-hued beverage with its signature floating rice grains is wonderfully delicious, making it a perfect way to end a meal or celebrate special occasions. (Get the recipe: Sikhye)
29. Korean Plum Tea (Maesil Cha, 매실차)
This tea is popular in Korea for its simple, sweet, tangy, and fruity flavor. It’s easy to make with plum extract, whether homemade or store-bought. You can serve it cold or hot, but iced tea is especially refreshing in summer and is an absolute favorite of mine. (Get the recipe: Korean Plum Tea)
30. Makgeolli Shake (막걸리 쉐이크)
If you’re in the mood for a boozy concoction, I highly recommend giving this cocktail a try. The makgeolli shake is a chic Korean alcoholic beverage that masterfully blends the subtle sweetness and fizziness of makgeolli with the rich, creamy texture of vanilla custard and ice cream. (Get the recipe: Makgeolli Shake)
31. Korean Sweet Potato Cake (Goguma Cake, 고구마 케익)
Layered with airy sponge and smooth sweet potato cream, this cake is gently sweet, comforting, and so beautiful on the table. It’s one of those desserts that feels special enough for celebrations but simple enough to enjoy anytime. (Get the recipe: Korean Sweet Potato Cake)
32. Korean Sweet Pancake (Hotteok, 호떡)
These golden Korean sweet pancakes are stuffed with a gooey cinnamon-sugar filling that melts into every bite. They’re cozy, fragrant, and guaranteed to disappear fast at any gathering. (Get the recipe: Hotteok)
And with that, I’ve shared all my top picks with you! I hope you’ll enjoy these dishes as much as my previous guests have. Each recipe has graced my table many times, and it’s never failed to win hearts and appetites.
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