In the early 2000s the rise of Korean dramas and music has had a lasting impact on the Malaysian food scene and the growing popularity of Korean cuisine has facilitated. There are many Korean restaurants that serve up tasty and authentic dishes in Kota Kinabalu. Korean cuisine can be explored which offers a broad range of flavours and textures such as from traditional bibimbap and bulgogi to Korean fried chicken and kimchi. Many of the Korean foreigners who have a wealth of knowledge and expertise when it comes to Korean food highly recommend Korean restaurants in Kota Kinabalu.
The list of 10 best Korean restaurants recommended by users on Google can satisfy your requirements that you are seeking recommendations for Korean restaurants in Kota Kinabalu, it will be a great place to start. Korean BBQ, soups, stews and noodles are included in these restaurants which offer a range of delicious and authentic Korean. Therefore, it will be a better time to try out some of Kota Kinabalu’s hidden Korean restaurant gems if you are a fan of Korean dramas and music or just looking to explore new flavours. Here are the top 10 best Korean restaurants in Kota Kinabalu.
What Makes Korean Food So Popular?
Korean food’s popularity can be attributed to its bold flavors, health-conscious ingredients, emphasis on fermentation, diverse dishes, visually appealing presentation, cultural influence, and globalization through the Korean Wave. Its unique blend of spicy, savory, and umami flavors, along with its focus on fresh and nutritious ingredients, has captured the taste buds of people worldwide. Additionally, the visually striking and Instagram-worthy nature of Korean dishes has contributed to their popularity on social media. The global interest in Korean pop culture has also played a role in the increased recognition and appreciation of Korean cuisine.
Is Korean Food Healthy?
Bibimbap, bulgogi and kimchi which are some popular Korean dishes are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and may have health benefits such as improved digestion, reduced inflammation and improved immune function. However, not all Korean dishes are necessarily healthy as some may be high in calories, sodium or unhealthy fats, this must be always kept in mind. It’s also a good idea to balance your meal choices and enjoy Korean cuisine as part of a balanced and varied diet.
10 Best Korean Restaurants in Kota Kinabalu 2025
1. Seoul Garden Imago
Seoul Garden Imago offers top-notch service and a five-star experience. It was an ideal venue for gathering and celebrating special occasions like birthdays. The staff is friendly and the ambiance is clean and cosy. To make it the perfect spot to enjoy quality time with family and friends you can choose from a wide range of food and beverage options. There is an extensive variety of dishes to choose from and the food is of excellent quality including fresh seafood. You can add premium options to access exclusive and high-quality foods if you want to elevate your dining experience.
Operating Hours: 11:30 am – 10:30 pm (Daily)
Address: Unit G95 & G96, Imago Shopping Mall, Coastal Highway, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Phone No: 088-275 185
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Reviews: Here
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SGImagoMall/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seoulgarden.imagokk/
Check Info On Website2. Hi Seoul Korean Restaurant
Hi Seoul Korean Restaurant offers delectable Korean dishes which are popular such as braised beef, seafood pancake and pork belly. You must try their awesome set meals that are definitely worth it. The atmosphere is wide and the staff provides excellent service. Although the prices may be on the higher side, the seating is comfortable. Besides, there is a huge parking area across the road that charges a fee for entry so don’t worry about the parking even though there is no designated parking space in front of the building.
Operating Hours: 11:00 am – 9:00 pm (Daily)
Address: Lot 10, Likas Square, Jalan Istiadat, Likas, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Phone No: 088-252 326
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Reviews: Here
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hiseoulkoreanrestaurant/
3. Secret Garden BBQ Korean Restaurant
Secret Garden BBQ Korean Restaurant is definitely worth the price to enjoy an ‘all you can eat experience. They don’t serve alcohol or desserts like ice cream but they offer a decent selection of meats with plenty of side dishes. They have a neat environment and comfortable seating with attentive staff. The spacious restaurant is also airy and has good ventilation. It will be a great place to go out with friends and family because the atmosphere is bright and clean. Nevertheless, it’s recommended to make a reservation in advance.
Operating Hours:
11:30 am – 2:30 pm, 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm (Tuesday – Sunday)
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm (Monday)
Address: 1st outlet : Lot 6,7,8,9 1st Floor, Wisma Langat Towering, Jalan Penampang, 88200 Penampang, Sabah
Phone No: 016-829 8532
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Reviews: Here
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SecretGardenBBQKoreanKK/
4. Gangnam BBQ
Gangnam BBQ is a renowned Korean BBQ restaurant that is famous for its authentic Korean dishes and high-quality meat. It is highly recommended for its kimchi soup and rice noodles. The staff are very efficient and friendly in providing excellent service and the meat is grilled to perfection. It is recommended to order the set menu to enjoy a variety of dishes. The location can be windy especially at night due to its corner position.
Operating Hours:
12:00 pm – 9:30 pm (Tuesday – Sunday)
Closed on Mondays
Address: Lot 104, Ground Floor, Lorong Lintas Plaza 4, Phase 2B, Lintas Plaza, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Phone No: 088-274 690
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Reviews: Here
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gangnamBBQKK
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gangnambbq_kk/
5. Silla Korean Restaurant
The top-rated establishment in Kota Kinabalu that fully captures the essence of Korean cuisine is the Silla Korean Restaurant. You can choose to dine here to experience truly authentic Korean dishes that are simply delightful. The restaurant is famous for the marinated pork rib which is the signature dish for most customers. The prices are reasonable and will earn a wonderful dining experience.
Operating Hours: 11:00 am – 2:30 pm, 4:30 pm – 10:00 pm (Daily)
Address: Lot 72 block 72 Ground floor , Signature Office Kk times Square, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Phone No: 016-265 7412
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Reviews: Here
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ilovesilla.kota/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ilovesilla/
6. Korean B.B.Q. Supul
If you want to find a great spot for a small barbecue dinner, Korean B.B.Q. Supul will be your best choice that offers good value for your money. The restaurant is a peaceful and less crowded place with the staff who are very helpful. For example, they’ll even help you with the barbecue if you need it. The atmosphere was very calm and provided comfortable places for dine in and the portions were good with generous side dishes.
Operating Hours:
11:00 am – 2:30 pm, 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm (Tuesday – Sunday)
Closed on Mondays
Address: Lot S – 1 – 8, City Mall, Lorong City Mall & Jalan Lintas, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Phone No: 088-448 844
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Reviews: Here
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/supulbbq
7. Seoulmate Korean Cuisine
Seoulmate Korean Cuisine provides an extensive range of genuine Korean delicacies that are prepared using only the freshest and finest quality ingredients. The restaurant is located on the first floor inside the 88Mall and serves affordable “Serve No Pork” Korean dishes that come in generous portions. Customers have to pay for their orders at the counter and the service is relatively fast. However, the place can be quite crowded during peak hours.
Operating Hours: 11:30 am – 9:00 pm (Daily)
Address: 88 marketplace, 88200 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Phone No: 010-281 2706
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Reviews: Here
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/seoulmatekk/
8. DeliKorea
DeliKorea is a Korean restaurant that offers a delightful dining experience with its spacious area that can accommodate large families. The owner is gracious and the food is seasoned just right to provide a nice taste. The delectable Korean cuisine is reasonably priced while the restaurant also has a Korean vibe that adds to the overall ambiance.
Operating Hours: 5:00 pm – 1:00 am (Daily)
Address: Ground Floor, Karamunsing Capital, NO. G-0-2, Block G, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Phone No: 014-956 0479
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Reviews: Here
9. Korean Snack Cafe
Korean Snack Cafe which is located on the 2nd floor within Wisma Merdeka has been in operation for over 15 years. The atmosphere is very tidy and peaceful. The menu is simple and all dishes are freshly prepared and served hot. Their Wednesday special is jabchae and a dish that is highly recommended to order is the kimchi stew and stir-fried cabbage.
Operating Hours:
11:30 am – 4:00 pm (Monday – Saturday)
Closed on Mondays
Address: Wisma Merdeka, Lot B217, Jalan Tun Razak, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Phone No: 016-825 3567
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Reviews: Here
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/koreansnackcafe/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/korean_snack_cafe/
10. The Bab’s
Bab’s is an authentic Korean restaurant that has been serving delicious Korean cuisine for more than a decade. The welcoming and friendly staff make it a great place to dine and the free parking adds to the convenience. The owner is attentive and provides great service. The side dishes are impressive and there’s no extra charge for them. Make sure you to go to the correct location on the second floor.
Operating Hours: 11:00 am – 10:00 pm (Daily)
Address: Lot 8, Golf Driving Range, Kompleks Sukan, Jalan Istiadat & Stadium Likas, Likas, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Phone No: 088-222 887
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Reviews: Here
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebabslikas/
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Disclosure: This list was compiled by the team at My Weekend Plan after extensive research and shared opinions to suggest helpful recommendations for the public. The sequence of brands is in no particular order so if you have any other great suggestions too, please email us support@myweekendplan.asia. For more information, kindly refer to our copyright, privacy & disclosure policy.
