Top 15 Must Try Foods in South Korea: A Flavorful Journey Through Korean Cuisine

Last updated on October 2nd, 2024 at 05:49 am

Embarking on a culinary journey in South Korea is a delight for all food enthusiasts. From street food vendors to upscale restaurants, the country boasts a rich tapestry of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Wondering what to eat in South Korea, this blog presents a list of the top 15 must try foods in South Korea, showcasing the best of Korean cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a first-time traveler, these dishes are bound to impress and satisfy your cravings.

Must Try Foods in South Korea

1. Kimchi – A Staple Delight:

No South Korean food experience is complete without kimchi. This traditional side dish consists of fermented vegetables, most commonly cabbage, mixed with seasonings like garlic, chili pepper, and ginger. The result is the Best Korean Food, a tangy and spicy flavor explosion that complements any meal. Kimchi is not only delicious but also rich in probiotics, providing numerous health benefits.

2. Bibimbap – A Harmony of Flavors:

Bibimbap is a Best Korean Food consisting of rice dish that translates to “mixed rice.” It comprises a colorful medley of sautéed vegetables, marinated meat, a perfectly fried egg, and gochujang (Korean chili paste) served on a bed of steamed rice. The combination of textures and flavors makes bibimbap a delectable delight, and the process of mixing everything together before eating adds an interactive element to the dining experience.

3. Bulgogi – A Tender Treat:

Prepare your taste buds for an explosion of flavors with bulgogi, a Best Korean Food. This classic barbecue best Korean dishes features thinly sliced, marinated beef or pork, grilled to perfection. The marinade, typically made with soy sauce, garlic, sugar, and sesame oil, infuses the meat with a mouthwatering combination of sweet and savory notes. Enjoy bulgogi with a side of rice or wrapped in lettuce for a truly authentic experience.

4. Chimaek – Fried Chicken & Beer

Chimaek (치맥), a beloved pairing of fried chicken and beer, is a must-try in South Korea. The name “chimaek” comes from combining “chicken” (치킨) and “maekju” (맥주), meaning beer. Korean fried chicken is typically double-fried, giving it an extra crispy texture, with flavors ranging from spicy yangnyeom (sweet and spicy sauce) to simple salt-and-pepper seasoning. Pair it with an ice-cold beer for the full experience. Don’t forget to try it with pickled radish, which balances the richness of the chicken.

5. Mandu – Dumplings

Mandu are Korean dumplings filled with a mixture of meat, vegetables, tofu, and glass noodles. They come in various forms: steamed, boiled, or fried, each offering a different texture. The taste is savory, with a delicate balance of flavors from the juicy filling and thin dough wrapping. Mandu is often served with soy-vinegar dipping sauce, enhancing the umami flavor. Try mandu in soups like manduguk (dumpling soup) for a heartier version. Pan-fried mandu (gunmandu) is a popular street food snack, perfect for a quick bite.

6. Tteokbokki – A Spicy Street Snack:

Tteokbokki, often found at bustling street food stalls, is a spicy and chewy rice cake dish smothered in gochujang sauce. The addition of fish cakes and boiled eggs adds layers of flavor and texture to this making it one of the best Korean dishes. Don’t be afraid to embrace the heat – the spicy kick is part of what makes this dish so addictively delicious.

7. Dakgalbi – Grilled Chicken, Cabbage & Cheese.

Dakgalbi is a spicy, stir-fried chicken dish, often cooked right at your table. It consists of marinated chicken in gochujang (Korean red pepper paste), mixed with cabbage, sweet potatoes, tteok (rice cakes), and other vegetables. The dish is bold, spicy, and slightly sweet, with a smoky flavor from being stir-fried on a hot plate. After eating most of the chicken and vegetables, ask for some rice (bap) to be stir-fried with the remaining sauce in the pan, creating delicious dakgalbi fried rice. It’s a local favorite!

8. Kalguksu – A Homestyle Delicacy:

Kalguksu is a traditional Korean noodle soup that features handmade, knife-cut wheat noodles served in a rich and flavorful broth. The soup is typically garnished with vegetables, meat, and sometimes a dollop of gochujang for an added kick. Kalguksu showcases the heartwarming essence of South Korean home-cooked meals, making it in our list of best Korean dishes.

9. Gimbap – Korea’s Sushi

Gimbap is often called Korea’s sushi, but it’s uniquely different. It consists of seasoned rice, vegetables, eggs, and protein (like bulgogi or tuna) rolled in seaweed. The flavors are light and savory, with a slight nuttiness from the sesame oil used to season the rice. Gimbap is a versatile meal, perfect for picnics or quick snacks on the go. Try different varieties of gimbap, such as tuna gimbap or cheese gimbap. Pair it with a bowl of soup or kimchi for a more complete meal.

10. Hoeddeok – A Sweet Snack:

Complete your South Korean culinary journey with Hoeddeok, a delectable sweet pancake filled with a gooey mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts. This delightful must try Korean food treat is often enjoyed as a street food snack and will leave you with a sweet memory of your time in South Korea. I tried a honey Hoeddeok, which was great on a cold day. The other Hoeddeok I tried was a honey and cheese which was delicious, piping hot, sweet and salty.

11. Korean Corn Dog

Korean corn dogs are a fun street food snack, with a unique twist on the classic American version. They’re made with a hot dog, mozzarella cheese, or a combination of both, coated in a slightly sweet batter, and fried until crispy. Often rolled in sugar and topped with ketchup or mustard, they have an addictive sweet and savory flavor with a crunchy outside and melty cheese inside. Try different variations, like the potato-coated corn dog or one stuffed with mozzarella. Pair it with tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) from the same street food stalls for a true Korean snack experience!

12. Haemul Pajeon – A Seafood Pancake:

For seafood lovers, Haemul Pajeon is a delightful must try Korean food. This savory pancake is loaded with a variety of fresh seafood, such as shrimp, squid, and green onions, all bound together in a crispy batter. Dip it in soy sauce for an explosion of flavors that showcase the best of South Korean seafood cuisine.

13. Japchae – A Flavorful Stir-Fry:

Japchae is a beloved Korean dish that features glass noodles made from sweet potato starch, stir-fried with an array of colorful vegetables and thinly sliced meat. The dish is seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil, imparting a delectable umami taste. With its delightful chewy texture and harmonious blend of flavors, Japchae is a must try Korean food for those seeking a unique and satisfying dish.

14. Samgyetang – A Nutritious Elixir:

If you’re seeking a nourishing dish, look no further than Samgyetang. This hearty Korean soup consists of a whole young chicken stuffed with sticky rice, ginseng, jujubes, and garlic. Slowly simmered to perfection, Samgyetang is a wholesome and comforting meal that is believed to have medicinal properties and is traditionally enjoyed during the hot summer months.

15. Sannakji – A Brave Adventure:

For the adventurous foodies, Sannakji is a must-try experience. This daring dish consists of live octopus pieces seasoned with sesame oil and sesame seeds. The tentacles are still moving when served, providing a unique and thrilling culinary experience. A word of caution: chew carefully!

Best Korean Food Experience: Korean BBQ

Discover the mouthwatering world of Korean BBQ, an absolute must-try when exploring South Korea’s vibrant culinary scene. Sizzling on grills right at your table, this interactive dining experience offers a plethora of delectable meats, including bulgogi and galbi, seasoned to perfection with authentic Korean flavors. Whether you’re a foodie or an adventurous traveler, diving into Korean BBQ promises a delightful journey through the country’s must-try cuisine. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in this cultural and gastronomic delight during your South Korean escapade.

Conclusion of The Must Try Foods in South Korea :

South Korea’s culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, textures, and aromas that will delight any food lover. Now you know what to eat in South Korea, from the iconic kimchi to the daring Sannakji or the comforting Samgyetang. Indulge in a delightful array of the best Korean dishes. Korean cuisine promises an unforgettable gastronomic adventure. These are some of the must-try foods in South Korea that will leave you with a memorable and flavorsome experience.
Check out the best things to do with our Ultimate South Korea Travel Guide.

What is the national dish of South Korea?

While there isn’t a specific national dish, kimchi is often considered a symbol of South Korean cuisine and culture.

Is Korean food spicy?

Yes, many Korean dishes are known for their spiciness, often attributed to the use of gochujang (Korean chili paste) and other chili-based seasonings.

Can vegetarians find options in South Korean cuisine?

Absolutely! While Korean cuisine features a lot of meat-based dishes, there are also plenty of delicious vegetarian options available, such as Bibimbap without meat or Kimchi fried rice.

What is the best way to try a variety of Korean dishes?

Visiting traditional Korean restaurants and street food stalls will allow you to sample a wide range of dishes, giving you a well-rounded experience of South Korean cuisine.

Are there any specific dining customs I should be aware of in South Korea?

Yes, in South Korea, it’s customary to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or certain restaurants, and it’s polite to wait for the eldest person at the table to start eating before you do.