Korean Plates and Bowls
Korean plates and bowls offer a wide array of sizes that can ideally accommodate different Korean dishes- whether it be purely for aesthetics or practical purposes. Some may fit a certain food just right (an elongated, narrow plate just for grilled fish) to maximize its visual appeal. On the other hand, a double-wall insulated steel bowl may not look the nicest, but it will keep that Nengmyun (Korean cold noodles) icy cold until you’re done.
The charm of shopping for Korean bowls and dishes (other than design) is their sheer range of sizing options. This is because Korean meals center around rice and its side dishes that are almost unlimited in varieties. You’ll find great choices for smaller plates and bowls.
Korean dinnerware is also made of various materials to appease the pickiest of needs. Porcelain and glass are common in most kitchens, but you will be intrigued by Korean bronzeware that is still made today and sold at a hefty premium. From kid-friendly plasticware to pricey china pieces that’ll make you cry if they get broken, there is something for everyone.
Korean side dish (banchan) bowls
Korean side dish (banchan) bowls are perfectly suited for Korean banchan which are varied small dishes to accompany a bowl of rice. It is usually plated in small servings to be finished at that meal.
Modern Banchan bowls and plates have introduced creative plating styles.
Modern Korean Tableware
Modern Koreans prefer minimalist designs that aren’t overly fussy (overwhelming flower motifs are out) that make Korean as well as Western dishes look good. There is a movement to support small artisans and handmade products as well, which supports local craftsmanship.
seok-binn kim ceramics
Seok-Binn Kim graduated obtained an M.A in Ceramic Craft in university and created a brand shortly after in 2009. His designs are Instagram famous in Korea and feature hand-drawn lines that bring a sense of quirky charm to the table.
By comparison, Odense is a Scandinavian lifestyle inspired aesthetic by Korean Giant Conglomerate, CJ (home of Costco’s Bibigo dumplings). It clearly demonstrates the trend to a simple, subdued palette that’s in style at the moment.
Traditional Korean Tableware
Traditional Korean tableware is known to be hand-forged bronzeware (Bangjja or Yugi) and handmade ceramics. It was used by kings and royalty and is popular today as wedding gifts to pass on culture and tradition. Artisans and masters of their craft command upscale prices for these collections that can become family heirlooms.
notdam bangjja korean brassware
Notdam (놋담) is a recognized brand in Korea for their brass dinnerware. You can check out their Korean website (www.notdam.com) to peruse the full collection before shopping online for their products on eBay.
kwang ju yo korean fine ceramics
Upholding tradition and craftsmanship since 1963, their products are now used in Michelin starred restaurants like Jungsik in New York and The French Laundry in California (Eater wrote an article about it here). Let your eyes settle on some beauty on the Korean KwangJuYo website but they do have an English site as well (www.en.kwangjuyo.com).
Although a company known for its traditional craft, they don’t let it constrain their style. They have different collections with a diverse look that will appeal to different tastes.
This is a unique type of drinkware that delights even Koreans. It is in the shape of a bell- hence the name Bell Cup (in Korean, it is 소리잔 Sori-Jan meaning Sound Drinking Glass). I love the fact they collaborated with Line Friends (popular messaging app in Asia) to create a whimsical twist to this traditional ceramic product.
It can serve tea, or could be a very classy way to have a sip of whiskey? It can also make a very cute presentation for small desserts.
Interestingly, KwangJuYo is also the company behind the premium soju brand Hwayo.
Why, yes, I will take a sip of that very smooth 53% premium soju.