If you're anything like me ㅎㅎ, after watching the first episode of Good Day (굿데이) on MBC, you probably felt that post-show craving for something warm, flavorful, and super Korean. You know — that soul-hugging, umami-rich, rice-loving kind of meal? ^^ As soon as I saw G-Dragon in that chill yet creative energy, surrounded by celebs, music, and cozy vibes, I immediately thought, “Yep, it’s pork galbi night.”
The program made its debut on February 16, 2025, and honestly, it’s already giving major healing energy. Led by none other than G-Dragon, it’s all about celebrating life’s simple joys — music, food, laughs, and meaningful moments with good people. Each episode revolves around a different theme — whether it’s cooking, jamming in the studio, or just vibing in a new place — but the feeling is the same: relaxed, authentic, and heartwarming. Watching it feels like taking a deep breath after a long week.
This week’s episode really hit home with all the food scenes, and it brought back memories of the ultimate comfort food: Korean-style sweet soy pork galbi (돼지갈비). But here’s the twist. Instead of using traditional pork ribs, I tried it with pork shoulder (목살), and let me just say... it’s a game-changer. This recipe is based on a golden ratio passed down for 60 years, and it’s been living rent-free in my head (and stomach) ever since I made it ㅋㅋ
It’s the kind of dish that makes you forget about going out to eat. No seriously, since I tried this version, I haven’t stepped foot in a BBQ restaurant for galbi again. And the best part? It’s super beginner-friendly, takes less than 15 minutes of actual cooking, and uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry if you’re into Korean cooking. Whether you're binge-watching Good Day or just need a comforting dinner after a long day, this one’s guaranteed to hit all the right notes.
So get comfy, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this deliciously nostalgic recipe that’s perfect for a G-Dragon-style “good day” night in ^^
Ingredients & Tools
- Servings: 2 people (but honestly, you might not want to share)
- Prep + Cook Time: Around 15 minutes of active cooking, plus marinating time
- Difficulty: Easy-peasy. No BBQ skills required!
What You’ll Need:
- Pork shoulder (목살) or pork belly (삼겹살) – 1 kg (about 2.2 lbs)
- Soy sauce – 4 tablespoons (start here, add more if marinating long)
- Corn syrup or rice syrup – 2 tablespoons
- Brown sugar (or black sugar for extra depth) – 3 tablespoons
- Sesame seeds or ground sesame – 2 tablespoons
- Minced garlic – 1 tablespoon (more if you love garlic like me ㅎㅎ)
- Ground black pepper – just a pinch
- Water – 1/2 cup (very important for cooking evenly!)
- Mustard – 1/2 teaspoon (this is the secret weapon)
- Chopped green onion – 5 tablespoons (don’t skip this!)
Tools:
- Mixing bowl (large enough to coat all the meat)
- Plastic zip bag or airtight container for marinating
- Frying pan or skillet (nonstick preferred)
- Knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the sauce: In a big bowl, combine 4T soy sauce, 2T corn syrup, 3T brown sugar, and 1T minced garlic. Stir until the sugar is mostly dissolved. You’ll want a thick but pourable marinade.
- Add the secret flavor: Mix in 1/2 teaspoon of mustard. It’s a tiny amount, but trust me — it gives the marinade this subtle tang that cuts through the richness and adds that “wow, what is that?” flavor. So good.
- Add green onions + sesame: Stir in 5 tablespoons of chopped green onions and 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds or ground sesame. These ingredients add texture and a warm, nutty aroma that just screams Korean home cooking.
- Don’t forget the water: Add 1/2 cup of water to thin the marinade. This prevents burning later when we cook everything on the pan. If you added more soy sauce earlier, adjust the water accordingly to keep it balanced.
- Marinate the pork: Slice the pork shoulder into bite-sized or thin pieces and coat them fully in the marinade. Pop everything into a zip bag or container and massage it a little to spread the flavor evenly.
- Let it rest: Minimum marinating time is 30 minutes, but if you’re planning ahead, letting it sit overnight or even 2-3 days makes it insanely flavorful. This is a great meal-prep dish!
- Cook it slow and low: Heat your pan on low to medium heat, then add the pork and all the marinade. Don’t rush this. Let the pork gently cook and soak in the sauce. Flip occasionally and let the sauce reduce to a glossy glaze.
- Watch for the glaze: Once the pork is cooked through and the sauce has thickened to a shiny, sticky consistency, you’re done! The flavor should be deep, slightly sweet, and full of umami.
- Serve it up: Plate with a mountain of hot rice, kimchi, maybe a fried egg if you’re feeling extra. Sprinkle some sesame seeds on top and get ready to devour.
One bite and you’ll see — this isn't just food. It’s a full experience. Sweet, savory, garlicky, rich... it’s the taste of comfort, Korean-style. ㅎㅎ
FAQ
Q1: Can I use beef instead of pork?
A: Absolutely! Just use thinly sliced short ribs (like LA galbi) or brisket. Adjust cooking time depending on the cut. Beef tends to cook faster and gets dry if overcooked, so keep an eye on it.
Q2: Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
A: Yes! You can use thick slices of king oyster mushrooms or tofu instead of pork. Marinate them the same way and pan-fry gently. Not the same texture, but the sauce still slaps ^^
Q3: What should I serve this with?
A: Definitely rice, kimchi, and maybe a simple soup like miyeokguk (seaweed soup). A crunchy salad or pickled veggies make a great balance too.
Q4: Can I meal-prep this for the week?
A: 100%. You can cook a big batch and portion it out. It reheats beautifully, and the flavor actually gets better the next day. Store in the fridge up to 4 days or freeze for later.
Wrap-Up
There’s something so magical about the way food and entertainment connect. Watching Good Day (굿데이), with its focus on togetherness, creativity, and good vibes, reminded me why I love Korean cooking so much. It’s not just about flavor — it’s about connection. This sweet soy pork galbi (돼지갈비) recipe is the perfect example. It’s easy, comforting, and feels like a hug on a plate.
Whether you’re watching G-Dragon and Jung Hyung-don bring back that iconic chemistry from Infinite Challenge, or just jamming to the show’s featured songs while you cook, this recipe makes the experience even richer. It’s perfect for a chill dinner with friends, a K-drama night in, or even your next Korean food party. And honestly? Once you try this, you may never crave restaurant galbi again ㅋㅋ
The mustard trick, the balanced marinade, the slow pan cook... it all comes together in a way that’s super accessible but crazy flavorful. And that’s what Korean home food is all about. Making everyday meals feel special. Just like Good Day — a reminder that with the right ingredients and people, even the simplest moments can become the most memorable.
So next time you’re craving something soulful, savory, and a little bit nostalgic, give this 60-year-old recipe a try. Add your own twist, make it yours, and let it be the start of a good day — or a great night in ^^ㅎㅎㅎㅎㅎㅎ
