A recent post, “Koreans Would Even Make Aliens into Dried Fish,” has captured online attention. Uploaded to the online community Instiz on Monday, the post features a photo of a dried fish with a particularly eerie appearance. The fish, known as “gaesogeong,” is distinguished by its sharp teeth, which led the post’s author to humorously compare it to an alien due to its unsettling resemblance.
Gaesogeong is a carnivorous fish that primarily feeds on small fish and crustaceans. Its body is elongated and sleek, resembling an eel, with sharp teeth as its most noticeable feature. These teeth, which it uses effectively for hunting, have led netizens to liken gaesogeong to the alien larva, the chest burster.
Gaesogeong is particularly famous in Suncheon City, South Jeolla Province, where it is commonly caught in the waters off the coast. Since it inhabits areas closer to the shore rather than in deep waters, fishermen can easily see them with nets.
Gaesogeong is known for its lean and chewy taste. When dried, it becomes particularly savory, enhancing its unique flavor. It has a texture similar to squid or dried pollack but with much softer flesh, making it a popular snack to accompany alcoholic beverages.
In Korea, gaesogeong is commonly dried whole and then grilled. The dried fish is also added to dishes as a side dish. It can be easily cooked in an air fryer. The flavor is not overpowering, so it tastes even better when paired with seasoning or soy sauce.
There are various ways to enjoy it, but the most common method is lightly grilling the dried gaesogeong. You can dip it in a bit of soy sauce or a dipping sauce to enhance its nutty and savory flavors when grilled. Eating it semi-dried is also an option, and it is popular among those who enjoy a chewy texture. Gaesogeong pairs perfectly with soju, making it a favored choice for a snack. Lightly grilling gaesogeong releases more of its nutty flavor as you chew, making it an excellent appetizer.
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