Rice Bowl

Korean Street Foods

house Will Kimble Mar 11, 2022 #food

What you absolutely must try


If you're planning a trip to South Korea, make sure to indulge in the vibrant street food scene. Korea's street food is an important aspect of its culture, and trying some of the delicious local delicacies is a must-do for any traveler. Here are some of the popular street foods that you should definitely try when in Korea:


  1. Tteokbokki (떡볶이): A spicy and chewy rice cake dish served in a spicy sauce. It's one of the most popular street foods in Korea.
  2. Kimbap (김밥): A Korean version of sushi, kimbap is made by rolling seaweed, rice, and various fillings like egg, vegetables, and meat.
  3. Hotteok (호떡): A sweet and savory Korean pancake stuffed with brown sugar, honey, and nuts.
  4. Mandu (만두): Korean dumplings that come in a variety of flavors and fillings like pork, beef, vegetables, or kimchi.
  5. Jjajangmyeon (자장면): A popular Korean-Chinese dish of noodles topped with a thick black bean sauce and vegetables.
  6. Twigim (야채튀김):Korean-style tempura or deep-fried vegetables, seafood, or meat.

These are just a few of the many street foods that you can find in Korea. Be sure to keep an open mind and try new things - you might be surprised by how much you enjoy it! You'll find street food vendors in almost every corner of Korean cities, especially in busy areas like markets and subway stations.


Experiencing Korea's street food scene is an essential part of any trip to the country. With so many delicious and unique dishes to try, make sure to leave some room in your stomach and let your taste buds explore the wonderful world of Korean street food.

Finding vegan options


If you're a vegan traveler planning a trip to South Korea, don't worry - you can still enjoy the country's delicious food culture! While Korea is famous for its meat dishes, there are also plenty of vegan options available. Here are some tips for finding vegan food in Korea:


  1. Look for traditional vegan dishes: There are many traditional Korean dishes that are naturally vegan, such as bibimbap (a rice bowl with vegetables) and japchae (a noodle dish with vegetables).
  2. Check out Buddhist temples: Korea has a long tradition of Buddhism, and many Buddhist temples offer vegan food to their visitors. These meals are often simple, healthy, and flavorful.
  3. Explore vegan-friendly neighborhoods: Some neighborhoods in Korea, such as Hongdae in Seoul, are known for their vegan-friendly restaurants and cafes. Do some research and plan to visit these areas during your trip.
  4. Use food apps: There are many food apps available in Korea, such as HappyCow and Mango Plate, that can help you find vegan restaurants and cafes near your location.
  5. Communicate with locals: If you're not sure whether a dish is vegan or not, don't be afraid to ask the server or the chef. Koreans are known for their hospitality, and they will often go out of their way to accommodate your dietary needs.

While it might require a bit of effort to find vegan options in Korea, it's definitely possible. By following these tips and keeping an open mind, you can experience the best of Korean food culture without compromising your dietary choices.