Same table, different meals: Korean food's draw is participation

One of the most frequently asked questions visitors have when they step into a Korean restaurant is the reason behind sharing side dishes. When first-timers walk into such a place, they are often taken aback as they order one dish and suddenly, the table is filled with kimchi, seasoned vegetables, and pickles. None of these dishes end up on individual plates; instead, they are placed in the center of the table for everyone to share.

Visitors often perceive this as a reflection of Korea's sharing culture, and they are not mistaken. However, the unique aspect of Korean cuisine, or hansik, is not merely the act of sharing dishes. The true uniqueness lies in the fact that individuals sitting at the same table can have entirely different meals.

A few years ago, I had the opportunity to put this concept into practice. I shared a meal with a journalist from Austria, who happened to be a vegetarian. Despite this dietary restriction, we managed to meet at a Korean barbecue restaurant - an unexpected combination, yet the meal proceeded seamlessly. The table was soon loaded with rice, soup, leafy greens, and various side dishes.

The vegetarian journalist asked me how to properly consume ssam, a traditional lettuce wrap, and then inquired if any of the side dishes should be omitted. I explained that none of them needed to be excluded.