Spice level warning — Japchae is not what I expected

I underestimated Japchae. The deeply umami description didn't prepare me for the reality. doenjang fermented soy brings a heat or pungency that builds steadily rather than hitting upfront. By halfway through I was sweating but couldn't stop eating.

the communal banchan side dishes are as important as the main. The a Korean barbecue restaurant with table grills setting means locals eat this with ease while visitors like me reach for water. makgeolli rice wine cut through it better than water would have. Don't order the mild version out of caution — the full version is the point. I'd go back. Three stars only because I wasn't warned.