Separate kale leaves from the thick stems. Discard the stems. Chop kale into smaller pieces.
Have a bowl with icy cold water ready.
Bring water to boil in a pot. Add 1 tsp sea salt. Into the boiling water, add kale. Keep stirring and cook for 30 seconds.
With tongs, swiftly pick up kale and submerge it into icy water until leaves are cold. Transfer to a strainer.
Shake excess water from kale and squeeze well by cupping both hands together, portion at a time. Dab dry with paper towel. Less water is best, but don't bruise the leaves.
Into a mixing bowl, add kale, minced garlic, salt to taste, black pepper, and soy sauce. Hand toss gently until all the seasonings are incorporated.
Add sesame oil and toss a few times. Garnish with sesame seeds.
Serve cold with hot rice and other Korean side dishes.