When it comes to global musical phenomena, few groups have reached the level of fame and influence that BTS has achieved. This South Korean band, known for their catchy K-Pop music, impressive choreography, and meaningful lyrics, has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. While fans are well-versed in BTS's discography and personal lives, one aspect that often piques curiosity is the band members' culinary preferences.
The relationship between Koreans and their cuisine is deeply rooted in their culture, history, and identity. Korean cuisine, known for its bold flavours, vibrant colours, and emphasis on fresh ingredients, holds a special place in the hearts of the Korean people. Food is not just sustenance; it is an integral part of social gatherings, family traditions, and communal celebrations. For BTS that is no different and many times, they’ve shared their love for food and let the world in on what their favourite dishes are.
Here are 9 favourite foods of BTS members:
Kimchi: The Iconic Korean Staple
As proud ambassadors of Korean culture, it comes as no surprise that BTS members have a deep appreciation for traditional Korean cuisine. One dish that holds a special place in their hearts is kimchi. A fermented side dish made from napa cabbage, kimchi offers a unique blend of flavours—spicy, tangy, and umami. J-Hope (Jung Ho-seok) especially has a soft spot for Kimchi Fried Rice. Known for its health benefits, this iconic Korean staple is a frequent presence on BTS's dining table.
Meats And Korean Barbecue: All-Time Favourites
Korean barbecue, or "gogi-gui," is a quintessential Korean dining experience that BTS undoubtedly enjoys. The band members have mentioned their love for grilled meats, such as beef, pork, and chicken. SUGA (Min Yoon-gi) and J-Hope have gone on record about their love for sizzling hot Korean Barbecue, but it's something that all the band members love to indulge in. At Korean barbecue restaurants, guests grill their meat selections at the table, creating a mouthwatering aroma and an interactive dining experience. Accompanied by an array of side dishes, like ssamjang (spicy paste) and fresh lettuce wraps, Korean barbecue remains a favourite choice for the BTS members.
Korean Fried Chicken: A Crunchy Dream
One food that transcends borders and brings people together is chicken, and BTS members are no exception to its irresistible charm. Fried chicken, in particular, holds a special place in their hearts. In Korea, fried chicken is often made with a sweet-spicy combo of Gochujang sauce and honey and enjoyed with Danmuji (pickled radish). Whether it's crispy, spicy, or sweet, all the BTS members have expressed their love for this crowd-pleasing dish and once even did an 18-minute long ASMR video dedicated solely to them eating chicken! Chicken wings, drumsticks, or boneless strips—no matter the style, this savoury treat often finds its way into their food repertoire.
Jajangmyeon: A Comforting Noodle Dish
Jajangmyeon, a popular Korean-Chinese fusion dish, is a favourite comfort food among the BTS members. This dish consists of noodles topped with a thick, black bean sauce, along with various vegetables and sometimes diced meat. RM (Kim Nam-joon), is an especially big fan of the dish, with its rich flavours and satisfying texture, Jajangmyeon is often enjoyed on special occasions or as a comforting treat after a long day.
Seafood Extravaganza: Delighting in Ocean Delicacies
Seafood holds a special place in BTS members' culinary adventures, particularly the magical taste of lobster. Known for its succulent meat and luxurious flavour, lobster has been mentioned by some of the band members as one of their favourite seafood choices. Jin (Kim Seok-jin) is known for his love of food and once even ate 10 lobsters on his own and ate sashimi every day during the pandemic lockdown! That being said, there are a couple of members who disagree. RM (Kim Nam-joon) can’t stand seafood of any sort, and Jimin (Park Ji-min) also doesn’t seem to be a big fan.
Kalguksu: The Soul-Soothing Knife-Cut Noodle Soup
When it comes to comfort food, RM (Kim Nam-joon) often turns to Kalguksu, a beloved Korean dish. Kalguksu features handmade knife-cut noodles served in a savoury broth, often with ingredients like chicken, seafood, or vegetables. The heartwarming nature of this dish, combined with the satisfying texture of the noodles, makes it a go-to option for the band members, especially during summer.
Japchae: Stir-Fried Glass Noodles Delight
Japchae, a Korean stir-fried glass noodle dish, is another item on BTS's menu of preferences. V (Kim Tae-hyung) is an especially big fan. Made with sweet potato starch noodles, a medley of vegetables, and sometimes marinated beef, japchae offers a harmonious combination of flavours and textures. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a main course, BTS members appreciate the vibrant colours and delightful taste of this classic Korean dish.
Naengmyeon: Cooling Delight for Summer Days
When the summer heat strikes, Jin finds solace in a refreshing and cooling Korean dish called naengmyeon. Naengmyeon is a cold noodle dish typically served in a chilled broth and topped with various ingredients such as thinly sliced beef, pickled radish, cucumber, and a boiled egg. The noodles themselves are made from buckwheat or sweet potato starch, offering a unique texture that is both chewy and satisfying. With its tangy, savoury, and slightly spicy flavours, naengmyeon provides a welcome respite from the sweltering summer weather.
Through sharing their love for food, BTS continues to bridge gaps and connect with fans worldwide, highlighting the shared joys that come with experiencing delectable dishes. As fans cheer for their music and celebrate their achievements, BTS's culinary preferences offer yet another glimpse into their relatability and their ability to appreciate the simple pleasures in life.