Korean summers are hot—really hot. If you’re living in Korea or visiting during July and August, you’ll hear locals talk about Boknal (복날), also known as the “dog days of summer.” But Boknal isn’t just about sweating through the heat—it’s also about how Koreans have traditionally fought back with food.
During these peak heat days, Koreans enjoy nourishing meals like samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) to boost their energy and stay healthy. Whether you're curious about cultural traditions or just looking for something new and delicious to try, Boknal is a uniquely Korean way to experience summer.
In this guide, we’ll break down what Boknal means, when it happens in 2025, what to eat, and how you can join in—whether at a restaurant, through delivery, or even at home.
Table of Contents :
- What Is Boknal?
- Boknal 2025: Key Dates to Know
- Why Koreans Eat Hot Food in Summer
- Must-Try Boknal Foods for Beginners
- What to Eat on Chobok, Jungbok, and Malbok
- Experiencing Boknal Like a Local
- Summer Survival Tips in Korea
- Cultural Insights & Common Misunderstandings
- Quick FAQ for First-Time Boknal Visitors
What Is Boknal?
Boknal (복날) refers to the three hottest days of the Korean summer, known collectively as Sambok (삼복). These days are:
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Chobok (초복) – the “first” hot day
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Jungbok (중복) – the “middle” hot day
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Malbok (말복) – the “final” hot day
Traditionally, Koreans believe that these periods are when the body is most likely to become weak and tired due to extreme heat. So, it’s common to eat warm, nourishing meals that help restore energy and fight off fatigue. It’s a unique example of the “fight fire with fire” concept—eating hot food to combat hot weather.
There’s no exact English translation for Boknal, but you can describe it as “Korea’s dog days of summer” or “the three hottest days of the year when people eat energy-boosting meals.”
Boknal 2025: Key Dates to Know
In 2025, the three Boknal dates fall on:
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Chobok: Sunday, July 20
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Jungbok: Wednesday, July 30
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Malbok: Saturday, August 9
These dates change every year because they follow the lunar calendar and a traditional method of calculation based on Korea’s seasonal cycle. The entire period lasts about 20 days and is often the most humid and exhausting part of summer.
During Sambok season, expect high temperatures, lots of air conditioning, and a general feeling of sluggishness—especially in crowded cities like Seoul or Busan.
Why Koreans Eat Hot Food in Summer
If you’re new to Korea, it might seem strange that people eat hot soup in the middle of a heatwave. But there’s a reason for it.
Korean traditional medicine suggests that eating warm, hearty meals helps balance the body’s energy (gi, or 기) during extreme weather. Cold drinks and foods might feel refreshing short-term, but warm foods are believed to strengthen your immune system and prevent fatigue in the long run.
So, instead of iced drinks or salads, many Koreans turn to steaming bowls of samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup), spicy chueotang (mudfish soup), or even grilled eel. These meals are full of protein, vitamins, and medicinal ingredients like garlic, jujube, or ginseng—all believed to “cool” the body from the inside out.
Must-Try Boknal Foods for Beginners
Not all summer health foods are created equal—especially if you’re not used to Korean flavors. Here’s a quick guide to some of the most popular Boknal dishes and how beginner-friendly they are for international taste buds:
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Samgyetang (삼계탕)
Ginseng chicken soup. A whole young chicken stuffed with rice, garlic, dates, and ginseng. Light, mild, and very foreigner-friendly.
- Beginner level -
Grilled Eel (장어구이)
Rich in protein and good fats. The flavor is bold, and the texture can be unfamiliar. Usually served in soy-based or spicy sauces.
- Intermediate level -
Chueotang (추어탕)
Spicy mudfish soup, blended into a thick broth with vegetables and perilla powder. Loved by many locals—but quite an acquired taste.
- Advanced level -
Duck Soup (오리백숙)
Less oily than it sounds, often stewed with herbs like astragalus and ginseng. Great for people who prefer something less meaty than chicken or eel.
- Intermediate level -
Abalone Porridge (전복죽)
Gentle and nourishing rice porridge made with abalone. Often recommended for those with sensitive stomachs.
- Beginner level
If you're not sure where to start, samgyetang is your safest and most iconic option!
What to Eat on Chobok, Jungbok, and Malbok
While you can eat any Boknal food on any day, some Koreans like to mix it up depending on how hot it feels or how tired they are. Here are some local-style suggestions:
Chobok (First Hot Day – July 20)
You're just entering peak summer. The goal is to prepare your body for the coming heat.
→ Recommended: Samgyetang, Abalone Porridge, Duck Soup
Jungbok (Hottest Day – July 30)
The heat is at its worst. You’ll need foods rich in protein and calories to power through.
→ Recommended: Grilled Eel, Chueotang, Herbal Stew
Malbok (Last Hot Day – August 9)
The weather might ease slightly, but fatigue usually peaks. Light, restorative meals work best.
→ Recommended: Eel with rice, Nutritious Bibimbap, Mild herbal porridge
Many restaurants offer Boknal specials or fixed menus for each of these dates.
Experiencing Boknal Like a Local
Even if you’re not a fan of hot soups in summer, experiencing Boknal the Korean way is worth it! Here’s how to do it—without stress:
Dine-In
Many Korean restaurants, especially traditional places, offer Boknal lunch sets or dinner specials. Look for signs that say “복날 특선” (Boknal Teukseon).
Delivery Apps
Use apps like Baemin (배달의민족) or Yogiyo. Search for keywords like “삼계탕” or “장어” during Boknal week. Tip: Some apps allow English menus or third-party delivery help like Shuttle Delivery.
Ready-to-Eat Options
You can find frozen or microwaveable samgyetang or eel soup at major supermarkets like E-Mart, Homeplus, or Lotte Mart. Convenience stores also stock simple porridges and herbal soups.
Bonus Tip
Some foreign residents shared that trying Boknal dishes with Korean friends helped them enjoy it more. It’s a chance to connect, learn cultural context, and even score a good food rec!
Summer Survival Tips in Korea
Eating right is just one part of surviving Korea’s intense summer. Here are a few tried-and-true tips that locals (and savvy expats) follow:
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Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water—at least 1.5 to 2 liters a day. Herbal teas like barley tea (boricha) are also great options. -
Avoid Peak Sun Hours
Try not to go outside between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. UV rays are strongest, and heatstroke risks increase. -
Use Your Air Conditioner Wisely
Set the A/C to 26–27°C to avoid “aircon sickness.” Open windows briefly for ventilation every few hours. -
Stretch and Rest Often
Instead of heavy workouts, light stretching and regular rest help your body recover better in the heat.
Cultural Insights & Common Misunderstandings
For many newcomers, Boknal can bring up questions about unfamiliar dishes or practices. Here’s what you should know:
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What about dog meat?
Historically, bosintang (dog meat soup) was eaten by some on Boknal, but this is rapidly disappearing. Most restaurants no longer serve it, and a nationwide ban will begin in 2027. Today, the vast majority of Koreans enjoy samgyetang or eel instead. -
Is it okay to skip Boknal food?
Absolutely. It’s a tradition, not a requirement. Many young Koreans skip it altogether or choose modern, lighter alternatives like salads or cold noodles. -
I’m vegetarian or have dietary restrictions. Is there something for me?
Yes! Abalone porridge, herbal tofu stews, or bibimbap with no meat are great choices. More restaurants now offer vegetarian versions of classic Korean dishes.
Quick FAQ for First-Time Boknal Visitors
Q1. Can I try Boknal food without speaking Korean?
Yes. Look for chain restaurants or use delivery apps with English options. You can also show the dish name in Korean to staff: “삼계탕 주세요!”
Q2. Is it safe to eat ginseng if I’ve never had it before?
In small amounts (like in samgyetang), it’s generally safe. But if you’re sensitive to herbs or on medication, check with your doctor first.
Q3. Where can I find microwaveable Boknal food?
Try Emart, Homeplus, Lotte Mart, or GS25 convenience stores. Look for “즉석삼계탕” or “장어탕”.
Q4. Can I enjoy Boknal food even after the official dates?
Of course! These foods are available year-round and especially popular during July–August.
Whether you’re braving your first Korean summer or you’ve survived a few already, Boknal offers a delicious way to connect with local culture. You don’t have to eat something you’re uncomfortable with—just being curious and open is enough.
Try samgyetang with coworkers, grill eel with friends, or enjoy a chilled herbal porridge at home. However you do it, embrace the spirit of Boknal: restore your energy, beat the heat, and savor a uniquely Korean summer tradition.
