Korean Dictionary
How to say "Geotjeori" in Korean
“Geotjeori” in Korean is 겉절이 (pronounced "geotjeori").
겉절이
geotjeori
Usage & Context
Geotjeori is a type of fresh kimchi made without fermentation, typically with napa cabbage, and eaten immediately after preparation. It has a lighter, fresher flavor compared to fermented kimchi.
Example Sentence
겉절이는 발효 없이 바로 먹는 신선한 김치다.
Geotjeori is fresh kimchi eaten immediately without fermentation.
How to use 겉절이 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Geotjeori” is 겉절이, romanized as geotjeori.
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 겉절이.
Pronunciation Guide
The first syllable, 'geot' (겉), sounds like 'gut' in English, but with a softer 't' sound, almost like a 'd'. 'Jeol' (절) rhymes with 'doll' but starts with a 'j' sound, and the 'eo' is like the 'u' in 'butter'. The last syllable, 'i' (이), sounds like 'ee' in 'see'.
More Example Sentences
Enjoying a Korean BBQ meal with friends.
삼겹살이랑 겉절이는 환상의 조합이에요.
Samgyeopsal and geotjeori are a fantastic combination.
Talking about home-cooked meals.
엄마가 갓 담근 겉절이가 제일 맛있어요.
The geotjeori my mom just made is the most delicious.
Expressing personal food preference at a restaurant.
저는 익은 김치보다 신선한 겉절이를 더 좋아해요.
I prefer fresh geotjeori over fermented kimchi.
Cultural Context
Geotjeori is a beloved fresh kimchi, often served immediately after preparation without fermentation. It's especially popular with greasy dishes like Korean BBQ (samgyeopsal) as its crisp, slightly spicy, and tangy flavor cuts through the richness. Unlike traditional kimchi, which is fermented for a deeper, sour taste, geotjeori offers a refreshing crunch and vibrant seasoning, making it a staple in many Korean households and restaurants.
Editorial note
We test food and dining words like 겉절이 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
겉절이 맛있게 담그는 법
How to make delicious geotjeori
갓 담근 겉절이
Freshly made geotjeori
겉절이 리필해주세요.
Please refill the geotjeori.
Related Expressions
김치
kimchi
Kimchi (general term)
배추김치
baechukimchi
Napa cabbage kimchi (fermented)
묵은지
mukeunji
Aged kimchi
겉절이 김치
geotjeori kimchi
Fresh kimchi (same meaning, often used for clarity)
More Korean Food & Dining Words
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