Nearly a year had passed on my assignment to South Korea before I tried one of the country’s signature cuisines.

I blame the routine of military life. We wake, exercise, work, sleep and repeat with only a rare interruption. But suddenly my tour was becoming short, and I had yet to sample any Korean barbecue, one of the world’s distinctive meals.

To scratch that itch, I turned to a place just 10 minutes from Camp Humphreys in Pyeongtaek marked by some straightforward advertising. A huge red sign with white letters announces “Korean BBQ,” in English, with words in Korean that translate to “handmade jumbo beef, pork galbi,” or ribs.

Inside the restaurant, six long tables with grills are situated beneath fans that pull away the smoke as you cook your meat. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the staff was attentive.

I ordered marinated steak. Being a bit behind on the learning curve, I needed some help from the wait staff, who were happy to oblige.

When the food arrived, I knew I was in for a treat. The four flank steaks dripped marinade as they hit the grill. Next came small bowls filled with kimchi, pickled onions, cabbage salad and spicy dipping sauce.

Each dish offered a mix of savory, spicy, sweet, bitter and fermented flavors, hallmarks of Korean cuisine. Everything tasted spectacular.

I regret waiting so long to experience this cuisine. Don’t make the same mistake. Go out and get yourself some Korean barbecue. Don’t delay.

green.christopher@stripes.com Twitter: @ChrisJGreen8

Korean BBQ

Location: 92 [315] Paengseonbuk-ro, Pyeongtaek, South Korea.

Directions: About an 8-minute drive from the Millett Gate at Camp Humphreys, South Korea.

Hours: Open daily, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Prices: Most entrees cost between 26,000 to 56,000 won, or $20 to $43. Sides start at 12,000 to 7,000 won. Non-alcoholic drinks are 2,000. Alcoholic drinks start at 4,000 won.

Dress: Casual

Information: 031-692-9282