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The Secret of Korean Food Culture: Why So Many Side Dishes? Korean meals typically come with 3 to 10 or more side dishes (banchan) in addition to rice and soup. This is a culture that implements the Five Colors of the Five Elements (五方色) — red, yellow, green, white, and black — derived from the Five Elements (五行) philosophy through food. It embodies the philosophy that health comes from a balance of diverse flavors and colors. In restaurants, unlimited refills of side dishes are standard, and refusing them is actually considered strange. Why Such Etiquette While Eating? Korean dining etiquette is deeply rooted in Confucian culture. It is considered rude for younger people to start eating before elders pick up their utensils first. One should not hold a spoon and chopsticks in hand simultaneously.