Seoul: Kimchi Dishes Cooking Class with Wine Pairing

Trying to capture the essence of Korean food while also enjoying a glass of wine might sound like a tall order, but this Kimchi Dishes Cooking Class with Wine Pairing in Seoul makes it happen seamlessly. With a stellar 4.9 out of 5 rating from 17 reviews, this experience offers a fantastic mix of food education, hands-on cooking, and wine expertise—all in an intimate, friendly setting. Whether you’re a foodie eager to learn authentic recipes or simply want to deepen your understanding of Korea’s most iconic staple, this class packs a punch.

We love the fact that this tour combines learning about different types of kimchi, personalized wine pairings, and interactive cooking—all guided by a host with real expertise, including a background as a wine bar owner and sommelier. The class’s focus on sharing dishes and cultivating a sense of community makes it more than just a cooking lesson; it’s a genuine cultural experience. That said, some may find the class size limited, and the dishes, while adaptable, might vary slightly depending on the number of participants.

If you’re looking for an engaging, flavorsome activity that complements a day of sightseeing in Seoul, this experience is a superb choice. Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups eager for authentic Korean cuisine and a splash of wine sophistication, it offers a well-rounded, memorable culinary journey.

Key Points

• Authentic Kimchi Knowledge: Learn to make four different types of kimchi and understand their unique flavors.
• Expert Guidance: A former wine bar owner and sommelier will help you find perfect wine pairings, elevating your tasting experience.
• Hands-On Cooking: Choose between making kimchi pancake, white kimchi noodles, or radish-bacon stir-fried rice.
• Cultural Insight: Discover the background and history behind Korea’s signature dish, enriching your culinary knowledge.
• Shared Experience: Dishes are enjoyed communally, creating a friendly, social atmosphere.
• Convenient Location: Close to Gyeongbokgung Palace, making it easy to combine with sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Kimchi and Wine Experience

This class is thoughtfully designed to give you a thorough yet approachable introduction to Korean food culture. From the moment you arrive at the studio—located just five minutes from Gyeongbokgung Palace—you’re welcomed into a cozy, well-organized space that encourages interaction and learning.

Tasting and Learning about Kimchi

The first part of the session focuses on sampling four types of kimchi: traditional cabbage kimchi, white kimchi, radish kimchi, and aged kimchi. Your host, Suyeong—who has a background as a wine bar owner and an obvious passion for food—will walk you through each one’s ingredients, fermentation process, and distinctive flavor profiles. Reviewers consistently mention how educational and engaging this part is, with comments like “learning about the origins and variations of kimchi was one of the highlights,” and “she explained the details with patience and enthusiasm.”

Hands-On Cooking

After tasting, it’s time to get your hands dirty. You’ll select one of three dishes to make: kimchi pancake, white kimchi noodles, or radish-bacon stir-fried rice. The choice allows for some customization based on your preferences, and the dishes are simple enough for beginners yet flavorful enough to impress. The host adapts the recipes slightly depending on the group size, but all dishes are designed with ease and authenticity in mind.

Participants have raved about the fun atmosphere—“it felt more like cooking with friends than a formal class,” as one review put it. The guide’s clear instructions and patience make it accessible, even for those with little cooking experience. Plus, the pre-made aged kimchi with braised pork belly, a specialty dish of the host, offers a taste of what genuine Korean home cooking feels like, without the long cooking hours.

Wine Pairing and Sharing

What sets this class apart is the expert wine pairing. Your host, with years of experience, personally selects wines that complement each dish and kimchi types. The reviews praise the “thoughtful and well-matched wine selections,” which enhance the flavors without overpowering the dishes. As the class winds down, everyone shares the dishes they’ve prepared—along with the host’s special braised pork belly—and raises a glass together in a friendly, convivial atmosphere.

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Practical Details

• Duration: The entire experience lasts roughly 2-3 hours
• Group Size: Usually small, fostering a personalized experience
• Price: At $61 per person, it offers good value considering the expert guidance, multiple dishes, and wine
• Location: Conveniently near Gyeongbokgung Palace, perfect for combining with sightseeing
• Language: Conducted in English, with clear instructions and explanations
• Booking: Flexible reservation policy, with pay-later options and full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance

Why This Experience Works

The value of this class lies in its blend of education, hands-on fun, and cultural insight. You’re not just cooking; you’re learning the story behind each kimchi type, understanding how wine can elevate Korean flavors, and sharing a meal with fellow travelers. It’s this combination that makes the experience memorable and worth the price.

Many reviewers mention how knowledgeable and personable the guide is, with one saying, “Suyeong’s explanations made all the difference—she’s passionate and patient, making complex flavors accessible.” The small group size ensures you get plenty of attention, and the relaxed environment encourages questions and conversation.

The dishes you prepare are straightforward enough to recreate at home, which is a bonus if you want to impress friends or continue exploring Korean cuisine beyond Seoul. The pairing of food and wine might seem unusual but works beautifully, proving that sometimes, pairing wine with spicy, fermented dishes is surprisingly delightful.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This class is ideal for food lovers who want to learn authentic Korean dishes in a friendly setting. It’s perfect if you’re interested in expanding your culinary skills or discovering how wine can complement traditional flavors. Travelers who enjoy interactive experiences, socializing, and gaining cultural insights will find this especially rewarding.

It’s also a great choice for those who want a more relaxed, intimate activity after a busy day sightseeing, especially since it’s close to major landmarks like Gyeongbokgung Palace. While not suitable for under-18s, adults of all ages will find this class engaging.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $61, this experience offers a well-rounded taste of Korean hospitality and cuisine. You gain practical skills, taste a variety of authentic kimchi, and enjoy expertly curated wine pairings—all in a welcoming environment. The high ratings and enthusiastic reviews underscore its popularity and quality.

If you appreciate culinary education combined with cultural storytelling, this class is a must-try in Seoul. It’s especially suited for curious travelers eager to take home a new skill and a better understanding of Korea’s most famous dish. Plus, the convivial, social atmosphere makes it more than just a cooking class—it’s a warm, memorable cultural exchange.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, the recipes are straightforward, and the guide’s explanations are clear, making it accessible even for those with little cooking experience.

How long does the class last?
The class lasts approximately 2-3 hours, providing enough time for tasting, cooking, and sharing.

Can I choose which dish I want to make?
Yes, you’ll select from three options: kimchi pancake, white kimchi noodles, or radish-bacon stir-fried rice, depending on your preference.

Is the wine pairing included in the price?
The price includes the wine selected by the host to pair with your dishes, enhancing the tasting experience.

Where is the meeting point?
Start at the kimchi & wine cooking studio, located just a short walk from Gyeongbokgung Station, near Woori Bank and Cuisine La Cle restaurant.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the experience suitable for children?
No, it’s recommended for participants aged 18 and above due to alcohol consumption and the nature of the activity.

To sum it up, this kimchi cooking class with wine pairing offers a delightful balance of learning, tasting, and socializing. It provides authentic Korean cuisine insights in a relaxed environment, guided by a passionate expert. Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast or simply want a unique cultural activity, this experience is a flavorful way to spend an afternoon in Seoul.

You can check availability for your dates here: