Korea Food You Must Try When Visiting Korea
Korea is a country rich in diverse food culture, offering a variety of traditional dishes and street foods that travelers must try.
From iconic Korean barbecue to delicious street snacks, here are some of the must-try foods when visiting Korea.
1. Bibimbap – A Perfectly Balanced Korean Meal
Bibimbap is one of Korea’s most representative dishes, consisting of rice topped with assorted vegetables, meat, egg, and gochujang (red chili paste).
There are various regional styles, including Jeonju Bibimbap, Dolsot (Hot Stone) Bibimbap, and Yukhoe (Beef Tartare) Bibimbap.
With its colorful presentation and well-balanced nutrition, bibimbap is a favorite among foreign visitors.
2. Samgyeopsal – The Best Korean Barbecue Experience
Korean barbecue is an essential part of the food culture, and samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly) is one of the most beloved dishes.
The meat is grilled on a tabletop grill and enjoyed with ssamjang (soybean paste sauce), garlic, and fresh vegetables. When paired with a steaming bowl of doenjang jjigae (soybean paste stew) or gyeran-jjim (steamed egg), it creates a truly authentic Korean dining experience.
3. Tteokbokki – Korea’s Most Popular Street Food
Tteokbokki is a beloved Korean street food made with chewy rice cakes cooked in a spicy and sweet gochujang-based sauce.
There are many variations, including black bean tteokbokki, cream tteokbokki, and rose tteokbokki, offering different flavors for all tastes.
For an even better experience, try it with eomuk (fish cakes) or deep-fried snacks.
4. Galbi – Korean-Style Marinated Barbecue
Galbi is a Korean barbecue favorite, featuring beef or pork ribs marinated in a sweet and savory soy sauce-based marinade.
The dish is grilled over charcoal, giving it a rich, smoky flavor.
Whether it’s pork galbi or beef galbi, the tender and flavorful meat makes for a perfect introduction to Korean cuisine for first-time visitors.
5. Jeon – Crispy and Flavorful Korean Pancakes
Jeon (Korean pancakes) are crispy, pan-fried delicacies made with various ingredients.
The most popular types include kimchi jeon (kimchi pancake), haemul pajeon (seafood and scallion pancake), gamja jeon (potato pancake), and nokdu jeon (mung bean pancake). Haemul pajeon, in particular, is well-loved for its crispy texture and rich seafood flavor. It pairs especially well with makgeolli (Korean rice wine).
6. Seolleongtang – A Rich and Savory Korean Soup
Seolleongtang is a traditional beef bone soup made by simmering ox bones for several hours, resulting in a milky white broth.
The soup is served with sliced beef and noodles, and diners can add green onions, salt, and pepper to adjust the flavor to their liking.
Its light yet rich taste makes it a great comfort food for travelers.
Korea is a paradise for food lovers, offering a wide range of delicious dishes.
Whether you’re enjoying traditional meals or street food, exploring Korea’s food scene is a must during your trip.
However, before traveling to Korea, you must apply for K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization). Without K-ETA, you may be denied boarding for your flight. Make sure to apply in advance and get ready for an unforgettable food adventure in Korea!
