Histological observations of the barbels of torrent catfish (Amblycipitidae) in Korea are reported. The bullhead torrent catfish (Liobagrus andersoni) and Korean torrent catfish (L. obesus) have eight obvious barbels in two pairs each on the maxilla and mandible. Each barbel is composed of an epidermis, dermis, and central cartilagerod. The epidermis of the maxillary and mandibular barbels of the bullhead torrent catfish is thicker than that of the Korean torrent catfish (P<0.05) and is formed of stratified epithelium that contains many cutaneous taste buds and a few small club cells. There are many taste buds on the upper part of each barbel. The dermis consists of loose connective tissue fibers that enclose blood vessels and bundles of nerve fibers. The barbels of these fish can be categorized into stiff and flexible types and are accessory, feeding, and sensory structures. Our results validate the barbels as gustatory receptor organs for these fishes.