In a moving and eye-opening video titled “Hungry North Korean Tries Juicy Korean BBQ,” North Korean defector Ko Hong Chul shares his first-ever experience tasting Korean BBQ—one of South Korea’s most iconic meals. As he savors the sizzling meats and flavorful side dishes, his reactions are both heartfelt and revealing, offering viewers a glimpse into the stark contrast between his past life and his new one.

Throughout the video, Ko Hong Chul reflects on the food scarcity he faced growing up in North Korea, where access to meat and fresh ingredients was extremely limited. Sitting in front of a spread of grilled pork belly, kimchi, and dipping sauces, he marvels at the variety and richness of flavors now available to him in South Korea.

“This kind of meal was something I could only imagine back then,” he says, visibly emotional as he chews slowly, savoring each bite. The video becomes more than just a food review—it’s a deeply personal narrative about survival, freedom, and the cultural divide between North and South Korea.

As he shares his thoughts between bites, Ko doesn’t shy away from the complexities of his journey. His reflections highlight how even something as simple as food can be a symbol of both hardship and hope.

Through his eyes, the viewer is reminded that Korean BBQ isn’t just a popular dish—it’s a powerful symbol of abundance, choice, and life after escape.