Korea’s celebs crave this? One bite and you’ll know why.
A crispy Korean potato pancake, loved by footballers, actors, and millions of rainy-day eaters alike.
From Son Heung-min to Shared Tables
On a variety show, Son Heung-min once said:
“After a long match, I don’t crave meat — I crave gamja jeon.”
The comment went viral. Fans loved the simplicity. No glitz, no trendiness — just crispy, golden potato pancakes like mom used to make.
And he’s not alone.
When Gong Yoo Craved Potatoes
During a behind-the-scenes shoot for Goblin, Gong Yoo shared that his favorite rainy-day meal was:
“Gamja jeon and makgeolli. It's not glamorous, but it makes me feel grounded.”
This honest, earthy choice made headlines. Restaurants in Seoul even advertised:
"Gong Yoo's Pick! Gamja Jeon + Makgeolli Combo ₩9,000"
Lee Kang-in’s Cheat Day Special
Footballer Lee Kang-in posted a Story eating gamja jeon with friends at a street stall. The caption?
"치트데이엔 감자전이지."
That single phrase caused a buzz online. Fans flooded the stall to try “이강인 감자전.”
It’s now known locally as “강인전.”
유재석의 가족 요리 시간
On Hangout With Yoo, Yoo Jae-suk once cooked gamja jeon with his son.
He said,
“It’s the only thing I can make without burning it.”
The moment was sweet, real, and very Korean.
Why Celebs Keep Coming Back to Gamja Jeon
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Light enough for busy schedules
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Naturally gluten-free
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Comforting yet quick to cook
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Perfect for sharing at home, shoots, or road trips
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Looks great on camera with its rustic golden crust
Quick & Authentic Recipe
Ingredients (2–3 servings):
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2 medium potatoes
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A pinch of salt
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Optional: sliced onion or chili
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Oil for frying
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Dipping sauce: soy sauce + vinegar + chili flakes
Steps:
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Grate potatoes and squeeze out water (save the starch).
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Mix potatoes with salt and starch.
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Pan-fry into small discs until golden and crisp.
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Serve hot with dipping sauce.
Fusion & Trendy Variations
Korean stars love mixing it up. Here are their favorites:
1. Cheese Gamja Jeon
Add shredded mozzarella to the batter or melt it on top for a cheesy Korean snack.
BTS’s Jungkook once called it “addictive” in a fan chat.
2. Sweet Potato Jeon
Use 고구마 (sweet potato) for a sweeter, deeper flavor. Great with honey dipping sauce!
Actress Han Ji-min shared her own version on YouTube — it became a mini food trend.
3. Potato Pizza Jeon
Use grated potato as the crust, and top with tomato, cheese, or bulgogi.
Think of it as a K-food version of hash brown pizza. Even kids love it.
One Pancake, Endless Stories
Gamja Jeon isn't just about food — it’s about feeling.
From Son’s quiet homesickness to Gong Yoo’s rainy-day ritual, from Yoo Jae-suk’s dad moment to Lee Kang-in’s cheat-day joy — this humble pancake tells real stories.
In every crispy bite, there’s a piece of Korea.