What Is Samgyeopsal? The Ultimate Guide to Korea’s Most Loved BBQ Pork Belly
When people think of Korean BBQ, one word usually comes to mind: samgyeopsal. Thick slices of fresh pork belly grilled right at the table, dipped in ssamjang, wrapped in lettuce, and enjoyed in one perfect bite. Whether you’re visiting Seoul for the first time or live here, samgyeopsal is one of the most essential dishes to try—and Myeongdong is one of the best places to experience it.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about samgyeopsal: what it is, why Koreans love it, how to eat it properly, how to choose the right restaurant, and why Mongvely is one of the most recommended Korean BBQ spots for tourists exploring Myeongdong.
What Exactly Is Samgyeopsal?
Samgyeopsal (삼겹살) literally means “three-layered pork belly”—referring to the layers of fat and lean meat visible in each slice. Unlike bacon, samgyeopsal is not smoked or cured. It’s served fresh and grilled without seasoning, allowing the natural flavor of the pork to shine.
Each layer has a purpose:
The top fat layer melts into the grill, creating juiciness.
The middle lean layer adds texture.
The lower marbled layer brings flavor and tenderness.
The result is a rich, savory piece of meat that pairs perfectly with fresh vegetables, banchan, and sauces.
Why Samgyeopsal Became Korea’s #1 BBQ Dish
Even in a country famous for beef BBQ, samgyeopsal remains the national favorite. There are several reasons:
1. Deep flavor with simple preparation : Fresh pork belly doesn’t require seasoning. The flavor comes from grilling, dipping, and wrapping.
2. Perfect pairing with banchan : Kimchi, pickled radish, garlic, ssamjang, lettuce, perilla leaf—everything complements the rich pork belly.
3. Social food culture : Korean BBQ is meant to be shared, and samgyeopsal is the dish that brings people together.
4. Customizable for every taste : Choose your wrap, sauce, or side. You can make every bite different.
5. Affordable luxury : Compared to beef, samgyeopsal gives you premium taste at a reasonable price, popular with students, families, tourists, and locals.
How Samgyeopsal Is Usually Served at Korean BBQ Restaurants
A typical samgyeopsal table includes:
Fresh pork belly
Stainless steel scissors
Tongs
A grill pan
Kimchi
Pickled radish
Garlic & peppers
Ssamjang (soybean-chili paste)
Salt & sesame oil
Lettuce & perilla leaves
Sometimes bean sprouts, cabbage salad, or stir-fried kimchi
At Mongvely, we also serve daily-made banchan prepared fresh every morning. These are designed to cut through the richness of pork belly and make your meal more balanced.
➣ Read also : What Is Banchan? The Complete Guide to Korean Side Dishes at Mongvely
Different Types of Samgyeopsal Cuts
Not all pork belly is sliced the same. Here are the main variations:
Thick-Cut Samgyeopsal (두툼 삼겹살) : Thicker, juicier, more satisfying. Allows a crispy outside and soft inside.
Thin-Cut Samgyeopsal (대패 삼겹살) : Paper-thin slices curled on the grill—rich flavor but lighter feel.
Seasoned Samgyeopsal (양념 삼겹살) : Marinated in sweet-spicy sauces, soy-garlic mix, or special house blends.
Black Pork Belly (흑돼지 삼겹살) : Popular in Jeju; richer flavor and slightly firmer texture.
Herb or Special-Cut Samgyeopsal : Some restaurants season lightly with herbs, salt, or pepper before serving.
At Mongvely, we serve fresh, thick-cut pork belly with excellent marbling—ideal for grilling evenly and keeping moisture.
How to Grill Samgyeopsal Like a Local
This is where many tourists get nervous—but there’s no need. Korean BBQ is beginner-friendly when you know a few simple steps.
1. Don’t move the pork belly too much : Place it on the grill and let it cook until the bottom crisps. Flip only once or twice.
2. Cut into bite-sized pieces : Use scissors to cut the meat into small squares once both sides are browned.
3. Crisp the edges : After cutting, spread pieces out to crisp the surface for extra texture.
4. Pair with banchan and sauces : Use ssamjang, garlic, pickled radish, kimchi, and salt-sesame oil.
➣ Read also : The Ultimate Guide to Korean BBQ in Seoul
How to Eat Samgyeopsal Properly (Ssam Style)
Ssam (쌈) means “wrap.” The most iconic Korean BBQ bite is a ssam.
Here’s how to build the perfect one:
Take a lettuce or perilla leaf.
Add one piece of grilled samgyeopsal.
Add a small amount of ssamjang.
Add grilled garlic, kimchi, or pickled radish.
Wrap tightly.
Eat in one bite.
This combination balances rich, salty, spicy, and fresh flavors in one mouthful.
Why Samgyeopsal Pairs Well With Soju
Korean BBQ and soju go hand-in-hand. Pork belly’s richness complements soju’s clean, neutral taste. Many locals believe the alcohol helps “cut through the fat,” making the meal feel lighter and more enjoyable.
Popular pairings:
Classic green soju
Flavored soju (grapefruit, peach)
Makgeolli (traditional rice wine)
For tourists, it’s a cultural experience you shouldn’t miss.
Samgyeopsal vs. Other Korean BBQ Meats
If you’re exploring Korean BBQ for the first time, here’s how samgyeopsal compares to other popular meats:
Pork Neck (목살) : Lean, tender, and flavorful. Less fatty than belly.
Beef Brisket (차돌박이) : Very thin and fatty; cooks in seconds but lighter in flavor.
Marinated Beef (불고기 / 양념갈비) : Sweeter and softer, popular among travelers.
LA Galbi (LA갈비): Marinated short rib with bold, sweet-savory flavors.
Beef Strips (등심, 안심) : Classic Korean beef BBQ, more expensive.
Samgyeopsal remains the most balanced and universally loved.
Read also :
➣ LA Galbi – The Korean BBQ Short Ribs Loved Worldwide
➣ Bulgogi: Seoul’s Sweet and Smoky Korean BBQ Classic
Regional Variations of Samgyeopsal in Korea
Different cities have their own style:
Seoul Style : Thick slices, lots of banchan, lettuce wraps, fast cooking.
Busan Style : Often served with salted shrimp instead of ssamjang.
Jeju Style : Uses black pork, served with just salt + sesame oil.
Daegu Style : Grilled with scallions or spring onions on the side.
Gangwon Style : Charcoal-grilled, smoky and intense.
Mongvely offers the Seoul-style approach—clean, balanced, and tourist-friendly.
Why Samgyeopsal Is Perfect for Tourists Visiting Seoul
Travelers love samgyeopsal for many reasons:
1. Easy to understand and enjoy : No complicated flavors; fresh pork belly tastes great on its own.
2. Very customizable
You control:
seasoning & sauces (Read : How to Eat Korean BBQ: Sauce Pairing Guide at Mongvely)
wraps
level of crispness
3. It feels like a full cultural experience : Korean BBQ is social, interactive, and visually fun.
4. Fast service at Mongvely : Perfect for tourists on tight schedules.
5. Located in the center of Myeongdong : Walkable from major hotels, tourist spots, markets, and shops.
➣ Click here to access our location and contact details!
What Makes Mongvely’s Samgyeopsal Special
There are hundreds of BBQ restaurants in Myeongdong, but Mongvely stands out thanks to:
Daily Fresh Pork Belly : Never frozen, always in optimal thickness and marbling.
Quick and efficient service : Perfect for travelers with limited time.
Tourist-friendly environment : Clear menus, multiple languages, beginner guidance.
Prime location : Just 1 minute from Myeongdong Station.
High-quality grills : Even cooking, no burnt smell, fast heat.
Generous banchan refills : Balanced, fresh, and free to refill.
Comfortable dining space : Clean tables, proper ventilation, family-friendly.
Many travelers say samgyeopsal at Mongvely becomes one of their favorite meals of the trip.
How Much Samgyeopsal to Order Per Person
At most Korean BBQ restaurants, the standard serving is 150–180g per person.
However, tourists visiting Mongvely are able to enjoy an unlimited serving of samgyupsal along with various beef and pork cuts.
Since Mongvely offers both pork and beef options, you can mix and match freely.
Why Samgyeopsal Is Perfect for Group Dining
If you’re traveling with friends or family, samgyeopsal is one of the easiest meals to coordinate:
Everyone can share
Each person customizes their bite
Affordable
Fast cooking
Great variety of banchan
Fun and interactive experience
This is why Mongvely is often recommended for:
tour groups
families
student groups
friends visiting Seoul together
Large tables, fast service, and efficient ordering make the meal smooth even for bigger parties.
Health Benefits of Samgyeopsal (Yes, It Has Some!)
Although rich and fatty, samgyeopsal has some surprising advantages:
High protein
Contains B-vitamins
Good fats when eaten in moderation
Paired with many vegetables
Grilled (not deep-fried)
The banchan, lettuce wraps, and vegetables help balance the richness.
Tips for First-Time Samgyeopsal Eats at Mongvely
To make the most of your meal:
Start with fresh pork belly before trying marinated meats.
Don’t skip the perilla leaf—it’s a unique flavor tourists love.
Ask for banchan refills anytime.
Enjoy slowly; Korean BBQ is meant to be shared.
Add ramen or stew at the end for the full experience.
With these tips, you’ll enjoy Korean BBQ like a local.
Visit Us Now!
Mongvely Main Branch
Address: Myeongdong 8na-gil 9 3rd Floor
Opening Hours: 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.
Mongvely 2nd Branch
Address: Myeongdong 3-gil 44 2nd Floor
Opening Hours: 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.
Plan your visit → Book a Table
Follow us on Instagram → @kbbqmongvely
