What's in it
Aged kimchi, pork, tofu, green onion.
More about Kimchi Stew
The secret is old, sour kimchi (묵은지, mugeunji) — the longer it has fermented, the deeper the stew. Restaurants that specialise in it cook it with a big piece of pork or with tuna, and it comes bubbling with rice and side dishes as an everyday meal.
Good to know
Kimchi usually contains fermented seafood.
Special diets and allergies
- Vegetarian: usually made with pork, but many places can leave it out — ask.
- Watch for: Fermented seafood (fish sauce, salted shrimp).
- Pork: contains pork.
- Allergens: Soy.
Recipes vary between restaurants. If an ingredient matters to you, ask before you order — or show a diet card.
Quick answers
What is kimchi stew?
Spicy stew of aged kimchi, tofu and usually pork — the most common Korean stew at home and in restaurants.
Is kimchi stew spicy?
Yes — it is spicy. You can ask for less spice: 덜 맵게 해 주세요 (deol maepge hae juseyo).
Is kimchi stew vegetarian?
Usually made with pork, but many places can leave it out — ask.
Does kimchi stew contain pork?
Yes — it contains pork.
What is kimchi stew called in Korean?
김치찌개, pronounced “gimchijjigae”.