Say the essential line
Start with “덜 맵게 해 주세요” (Please make it less spicy) or “소스는 따로 주세요” (Please put the sauce on the side).
- Show the Korean sentence as well as saying it; pronunciation and background noise can make details easy to miss.
- Keep the Korean name “덜 맵게, 소스 따로: 바로 쓰는 주문 표현” visible when searching menus or showing staff.
Add one clear detail
Add the exact detail: “고추장 빼 주세요” asks to omit gochujang, while “매운 소스가 이미 들어가요?” asks whether spicy sauce is already mixed in.
- If heat is the concern, use the separate less-spicy guide instead of assuming the dish can be changed.
- Check the portion before adding sides; servings and set-menu rules vary by venue.
Confirm rather than assume
A request is not a guarantee: bases and sauces may be prepared in advance, so listen for “안 돼요” (not possible) and choose another dish when needed.
- Ask staff to confirm the answer. Recipes and cross-contact practices differ by kitchen.
- Check nearby restrooms in K-Restroom before sitting down or joining a queue.