This study used the 2022 food consumption behavior survey data to classify consumer segments and comparatively analyzed the characteristics of eating out consumption behavior according to food consumption competencies. A total of 6,365 effective samples were used based on the data of adult household members. Descriptive statistical analysis, frequency analysis, Chi-square test and ANOVA were used. As a result of assorting 4 segments of consumer groups according to high and low levels based on the mean score of internal and external basic competency and practice competency, ‘Food Citizen’, ‘Behavioral Consumer’, ‘Potential Consumer’, and ‘Food Illiterate’ are classified. Potential consumers spend the most on eating out, food illiterates show high delivery and take-out consumption patterns, and food citizens also eat out a lot. For most segments of consumers, eating out has been identified as a daily meal alternative. Accordingly, the future of the food and restaurant industry is bright, but cultivating the public as food citizens is very important in preserving local food culture, revitalizing agriculture and rural areas, and overcoming food security problems. This study presents practical and policy implications that will help establish effective policies to enhance the public's food consumption competencies.