Korean Dictionary
How to say "Tofu" in Korean
“Tofu” in Korean is 두부 (pronounced "dubu").
두부
dubu
Usage & Context
Dubu (tofu) is a versatile ingredient in Korean cooking, used in soups, stews, stir-fries, and salads. Sundubu (soft tofu) is particularly popular in Korean cuisine.
Example Sentence
두부는 단백질이 풍부한 건강 식품이다.
Tofu is a healthy food rich in protein.
How to use 두부 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Tofu” is 두부, romanized as dubu.
Usage tip
Use this word with ordering phrases, taste descriptions, and polite requests when speaking in a restaurant.
Common mistake
Do not rely only on the English meaning. Read the Korean example sentence and notice the particles, word order, and politeness level around 두부.
Pronunciation Guide
The first syllable, "du," sounds like "doo" in "dope" but shorter, or like "due" without the 'e' sound. The second syllable, "bu," sounds like "boo" in "book" or "boot." The stress is fairly even on both syllables.
More Example Sentences
Ordering food at a restaurant.
순두부찌개에 두부가 듬뿍 들어있어서 좋아요.
I like that there's plenty of tofu in sundubu jjigae.
Talking about a meal choice for health.
다이어트 중이라 저녁은 두부 샐러드로 먹었어요.
I'm on a diet, so I had a tofu salad for dinner.
Praising homemade food.
이 두부는 직접 만든 거라 정말 고소하고 맛있어요.
This tofu is homemade, so it's really nutty and delicious.
Cultural Context
Dubu (tofu) is a versatile staple in Korean cuisine, not just a health food. It's famously given to people released from prison, symbolizing a fresh start and a clean slate, as tofu is white and pure. You'll find it in almost every Korean stew (jjigae) and soup, especially sundubu jjigae (soft tofu stew), which is a beloved comfort food. Many Koreans also enjoy pan-fried tofu (두부부침) as a simple, healthy side dish.
Editorial note
We test food and dining words like 두부 inside ordering situations, because the natural Korean phrase often includes a polite request ending.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
두부 한 모
a block of tofu
두부 먹고 갈래?
Want to eat some tofu before you go? (Often used humorously after someone is released from prison, or just offering a simple meal)
두부 요리
tofu dish
Related Expressions
순두부
sundubu
soft tofu
두부김치
dubu kimchi
tofu and stir-fried kimchi (a popular anju/snack with alcohol)
콩
kong
bean (tofu is made from soybeans)
단백질
danbaekjil
protein
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