장부 (jangbu)

Jangbu is referred to as running a monthly tab at a restaurant. Often, Korean companies will negotiate with local restaurants for a discounted monthly rate for their staff to eat lunch at the restaurant. In busy areas of Gangnam where the market is more competitive, it's not surprising to see 15-20% discount on the monthly tabs in return for the company's continued patronage.

As an expat in Korea and trying to save money on food costs, it may be wise for you to ask a Korean friend to try to negotiate an individual jangbu deal with a local restaurant near you. For 2 meals a day, it's possible to be able to secure a monthly rate of 100-120,000 won a month, which will bring your per meal cost down to about 1000-2000 Won. And remembering that you get unlimited banchan with these meals, it can work out to be quite a bargain.