Free Side Dish Refills in Korea, What to Expect and How to Ask

When you walk into a Korean restaurant, one of the most delightful surprises might be the array of free side dishes, called banchan. Think kimchi, pickled vegetables, small salads—served at no extra cost.

What makes it even better? Many places will refill them for free if you ask.

But if it’s your first time, you might wonder: Is this really unlimited? Will staff think it’s rude if I ask?

In 2025, this custom is still very common in most casual and mid-level Korean eateries.

Understanding this culture and knowing how to ask politely will make your meal more enjoyable and help you feel comfortable. In this article, you’ll learn:

 

• What “free banchan refill” means in Korea
• How to politely request more, in English and Korean
• Some tips & etiquette so you don’t misstep

 

What “Free Banchan Refill” Means in Korea

 

Many Korean restaurants include banchan (side dishes) with your main meal.

These are meant to be shared and enjoyed along with your main dish.

In many places, if the banchan runs out or you eat them all, it's acceptable to ask for more, and they will bring more without extra cost. This is especially common in:

• family-style restaurants
• local banchan houses, ‘han-sik’ restaurants
• smaller casual eateries

However, it is less common at very high-end restaurants, or restaurants that advertise “no refill” policies.

Knowing whether refill is available depends on the restaurant.

 

Why this exists:

• Part of traditional Korean meal customs. Banchan makes the meal feel more abundant. (Creatrip ref.)
• Enhances customer satisfaction. (Creatrip ref.)
• Even in 2025, it remains a point of pride for many local places.

 

When You Can Ask & Signs to Look For

• Look around first: Are the tables near you getting refills?
  Do you see a refill sign or a self-service banchan counter?
• Wait until you finish or near finish: It is more polite not to ask too early.
• Be modest: Asking for a lot at once can feel greedy. Better to ask for specific items first.

 

How to Ask Politely

For better understanding, here are some English & Korean Phrases.

In English	In Korean	Pronunciation / Notes
“Could I have some more side dishes, please?”	반찬 좀 더 주세요.	Banchan jom deo juseyo
“May I have more banchan?”	반찬 더 주실 수 있어요?	Banchan deo jusil su isseoyo?
“Could you refill the side dishes?”	반찬 리필 가능해요?	Banchan refill ganeunghaeyo?
“Please bring me more of this (one).”	이거 좀 더 주세요.	Igeo jom deo juseyo (pointing)

 

Tips for Politeness

• Add “please” in English or -요 endings in Korean:

These small words make your request sound much softer and respectful.

 

• Smile and gesture kindly:

A warm attitude goes a long way in Korean culture, showing appreciation for the service.

 

• Say 감사합니다 (gamsahamnida) or “Thank you very much” afterwards:

Expressing gratitude is always noticed and leaves a good impression.

 

Common Misunderstandings & What to Avoid

This is a very important part you should keep in mind.

By knowing what not to do, you’ll avoid awkward moments and enjoy your meal smoothly.

• Don’t assume every restaurant offers free refills - especially at fancy places.
• Avoid demanding tones like “Give me more banchan!”
• Don’t waste food. Koreans dislike waste.
• If staff say “sorry, no more,” accept politely.

 

---

 

Free side dish refills are one of the things that make Korean meals special - they show generosity, community, and comfort.

As a foreigner in Korea, knowing how the custom works and how to ask politely not only helps you enjoy your meal more, but also connects you more with the local culture.

Next time you’re in a han-sik restaurant and your banchan is nearly gone, don’t hesitate: say with a smile, “Igeo jom deo juseyo”, and enjoy every flavor.

 

 

🌈How to Safely Use Public Wi-Fi in Korea

How to Safely Use Public Wi-Fi in Korea

 

🌈How to Get Health Insurance in Korea as a Foreigner (2025 Guide)

How to Get Health Insurance in Korea as a Foreigner (2025 Guide)