A bowl of kalguksu with kimchi, Seoul

Photo: note thanun · Unsplash License (Unsplash)

KVIBE IDOLS › Food guides › Korean dishes explained › 칼국수 (kalguksu)

🍜 Korean dishes explained

Kalguksu칼국수 · kalguksu

What is it?

"Knife noodles": wheat dough rolled thin and cut by hand, simmered in a light broth with zucchini and garnishes. Every market has a kalguksu stall, and Myeongdong Kyoja has served its rich version with garlicky kimchi since 1966.

How to eat it

  1. Slurping is fine — eat it hot.
  2. Kimchi is the essential side; refills free.
  3. Add dadaegi (chilli paste) to taste.
Typical price
₩8,000–12,000
How to order · Say it in Korean칼국수 하나, 김치 더 주세요.Kalguksu hana, kimchi deo juseyo.One kalguksu, and more kimchi please.

Where to try it

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FAQ

Is kalguksu spicy?

No, the broth is mild; spice comes from kimchi and optional chilli paste.

Kalguksu vs ramen?

Kalguksu noodles are fresh, hand-cut and unalkaline, in a lighter broth.

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