Food & Drink
Why Koreans turn to Samgyetang for summer strength
haps Magazine Korea
July 22, 2025
(Samgyetang)
In the sweltering heat of Korean summers, many locals turn to a steaming bowl of samgyetang, or ginseng chicken soup, to cool down, paradoxically by heating up.
Traditionally eaten during the hottest days of the year, known as Chobok, Jungbok, and Malbok, this dish is believed to restore energy and fight fatigue caused by extreme heat.
Samgyetang features a whole young chicken stuffed with glutinous rice, garlic, jujubes, and ginseng, simmered to create a nutritious, revitalizing broth.
According to Korean traditional medicine, “yi yeol chi yeol” (fighting heat with heat) helps balance the body’s energy.
The high-protein, mineral-rich soup replenishes nutrients lost through sweat and boosts stamina.
Prices for the popular dish have been rising with some places averaging nearly 20,000 won, making some families turn to making the popular dish at home.
In response, large supermarkets have been selling pre-made kits to make at home and selling raw young chickens at discount prices.