1. Introduction to the text
Korean barbecue, or gogigui, is a beloved culinary tradition that has been an integral part of Korean culture for centuries. This unique cooking method involves grilling marinated meats on a charcoal grill built into the center of the dining table, allowing diners to cook their food as they eat. Gogigui is not just a meal; it’s a social experience that brings people together to share food, conversation, and camaraderie.

2. Vocabulary

Korean Word Romanization English Meaning
고기구이 gogigui Korean barbecue
삼겹살 samgyeopsal Pork belly
불고기 bulgogi Marinated beef
갈비 galbi Beef short ribs
banchan 반찬 Side dishes
soju 소주 Korean rice liquor
makgeolli 막걸리 Traditional rice wine
ssam Wrapping meat and vegetables in leafy greens
jeontong 전통 Tradition
heunggalbi 횡갈비 Beef short ribs cut across the bone

3. The main text in both Korean and English

한국의 고기구이 문화는 오랜 역사를 가지고 있습니다.
The Korean barbecue culture has a long history.

삼국시대부터 고기를 구워 먹는 전통이 있었던 것으로 추정됩니다.
It is believed that the tradition of grilling meat dates back to the Three Kingdoms period.

고려시대에는 왕실에서 횡갈비를 즐겼다고 합니다.
During the Goryeo Dynasty, it is said that the royal family enjoyed heunggalbi (beef short ribs cut across the bone).

조선시대에는 일반 서민들도 고기구이를 즐길 수 있게 되었습니다.
In the Joseon Dynasty, the common people were also able to enjoy Korean barbecue.

현대에 이르러서는 고기구이가 한국 문화의 대표적인 전통 요리로 자리 잡았습니다.
In modern times, Korean barbecue has become one of the most iconic traditional dishes of Korean culture.

고기구이는 가족과 친구들이 모여 즐기는 사교 문화의 일부입니다.
Korean barbecue is part of the social culture where families and friends gather to enjoy the experience.

불고기, 삼겹살, 갈비 등 다양한 고기 재료를 사용하며, 맛있는 반찬들과 함께 먹습니다.
Various types of meat, such as bulgogi (marinated beef), samgyeopsal (pork belly), and galbi (beef short ribs), are used, accompanied by delicious side dishes (banchan).

고기를 구울 때는 종종 소주나 막걸리를 곁들입니다.
Soju (Korean rice liquor) or makgeolli (traditional rice wine) is often served alongside the grilled meats.

쌈은 고기구이의 필수 요소로, 고기와 야채를 상추나 깻잎 등에 싸서 먹습니다.
Ssam, wrapping the meat and vegetables in leafy greens like lettuce or sesame leaves, is an essential part of the Korean barbecue experience.

고기구이는 한국인들의 정서와 밀접한 관련이 있으며, 가족과 친구들과의 유대감을 강화하는 데 중요한 역할을 합니다.
Korean barbecue is closely tied to the Korean sentiment and plays an important role in strengthening bonds among family and friends.

4. Reading comprehension questions

1. What is the historical significance of Korean barbecue?
2. Explain the concept of ssam and its role in the Korean barbecue experience.
3. How does Korean barbecue contribute to social culture and relationships in Korea?
4. What are some of the popular meat choices and accompaniments for Korean barbecue?
5. Describe the evolution of Korean barbecue from its origins to its modern-day popularity.

5. Cultural and historical notes