By If you’ve ever been to South Korea, you know that the street food scene is unlike anything else in the world. With countless options and flavors, it can be difficult for even the most experienced of travelers to decide on what to try. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most popular Korean street foods, from traditional dishes to modern takes on classic recipes. Whether you’re planning a trip to South Korea or just curious about what they have to offer, read on for a delicious journey into some of the country’s tastiest treats.
Why is Korean street food popular?
Korean street food is popular for a variety of reasons. For one, it’s incredibly delicious. The combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors in Korean street food is unlike anything else in the world.
Another reason why Korean street food is so popular is because it’s very affordable. In Korea, street food vendors are typically small businesses that are family-run. This means that they don’t have the overhead costs of a larger restaurant, and they can pass those savings on to their customers.
Finally, Korean street food is popular because it’s a great way to experience Korean culture. When you eat Korean street food, you’re not just eating a meal – you’re experiencing a piece of Korea’s rich history and traditions.
Why do people love Korean food?
Korean food is loved by many because of its unique flavor and combination of different spices. The use of chili peppers, garlic, and ginger give Korean dishes their characteristic zing, while sesame oil and soy sauce provide a savory depth of flavor. Korean cuisine is also known for its healthy ingredients, such as kimchi (fermented cabbage), which is rich in vitamins A and C.
Another reason why people love Korean food is because it can be enjoyed in so many different ways. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty stew, a light soup, or a crunchy vegetable side dish, there’s a Korean dish to suit your taste. And don’t forget about Korea’s famous grilled meats! From chicken to beef to pork, Korean BBQ is sure to satisfy your hunger.
So why do people love Korean food? Flavorful, healthy, and versatile, it’s no wonder that this cuisine has become so popular around the world!
What is the most popular street food in Korea?
If you’re looking for a quick and tasty snack while exploring Korea, then street food is the way to go! There are many different kinds of street foods available, but the most popular ones are definitely tteokbokki (떡볶이) and odeng (오뎅).
Tteokbokki is a dish made with rice cakes, vegetables, and gochujang (고추장), a spicy red pepper paste. It’s usually served with fishcakes or boiled eggs, and it’s incredibly addictive! Odeng is a type of fishcake that’s often served on a skewer. It’s cooked in a broth of vegetables and spices, making it nice and flavorful.
So next time you’re out and about in Korea, make sure to try some of these delicious street foods!
1. Tteokbokki: Spicy Stir-fried Rice Cakes)
Tteokbokki is a Korean street food that consists of spicy stir-fried rice cakes. The rice cakes are usually served with a gochujang (Korean chili paste) sauce, and they can also be topped with vegetables, meat, or seafood.
Tteokbokki is a popular snack food in Korea, and it can be found at almost any street food vendor. The dish is typically made with round rice cakes, but there are also variations that use oval-shaped rice cakes.
The word “tteokbokki” actually means “stir-fried rice cake,” so the dish is named after the cooking method. The rice cakes are first boiled in water, then stir-fried in a pan with the gochujang sauce and other ingredients.
If you’re looking for a tasty and spicy snack, tteokbokki is definitely worth trying!
2. Soondae: Korean Sausage
Soondae is a type of Korean sausage that is made from pig intestines and blood. It is a popular street food in Korea and is often served with rice and kimchi. Soondae can be found at most Korean markets and is a cheap and easy dish to make at home.
3. Cupbab: Rice in a Cup
Cupbab is a Korean street food that consists of rice in a cup. The rice is usually topped with vegetables, meat, and sauce. Cupbab is a popular snack food among Korean students and office workers. It is also a popular choice for hangovers and late-night cravings.
4. Dakgangjeong: Sweet Crispy Korean Fried Chicken
Dakgangjeong is a popular Korean street food that is made up of sweet and crispy fried chicken. The chicken is usually marinated in a sweet and spicy sauce before being fried, which gives it its distinctive flavor. Dakgangjeong is often served with a dipping sauce on the side, such as a sweet and sour sauce or a chili sauce.
5. Mandu: Korean Dumplings
MANDU: Korean dumplings are one of the most popular street foods in Korea. They are made with a variety of fillings, including meats, vegetables, and tofu, and can be either fried or steamed.
Most mandu are wrapped in a wonton wrapper, but some may also use an egg roll or spring roll wrapper. The fillings and wrappers can vary depending on the region or vendor, so be sure to ask before you order!
Mandu are usually served with a dipping sauce, such as soy sauce or vinegar, and are a great snack or side dish.
6. Twigim: Korean Deep Fries
When it comes to street food in Korea, one of the most popular options is twigim. These deep-fried snacks can be made with a variety of ingredients, including vegetables, seafood, and meat. They are often served with a dipping sauce, such as ketchup or soy sauce.
Twigim can be found at many street food vendors in Korea. They are typically affordable and make for a filling snack or light meal. If you’re looking to try some authentic Korean street food, be sure to give twigim a try!
7. Bindaetteok: Mung Bean Pancakes
Bindaetteok is a delicious and popular Korean street food made with mung beans. The pancakes are usually served with a dipping sauce, such as soy sauce or chili sauce. They can also be topped with vegetables, such as kimchi or cucumber, or meat, such as bacon or sausage. Bindaetteok is a great snack or meal option for those looking for something hearty and tasty.
8. Eomuk: Korean Fish Cake
Eomuk is a type of Korean fish cake that is made from whitefish and vegetables. It is a popular street food in Korea and can be found at many markets and stalls. Eomuk is often served with a sweet or spicy sauce, and it can also be used as an ingredient in other dishes such as stews or soups.
9. Bap Burger: Korean Rice Burger
Bap Burger is a Korean rice burger that has been gaining popularity in recent years. The burger is made with rice instead of bread, and is filled with various toppings such as meat, vegetables, and sauces.
Bap Burger is a healthy alternative to traditional burgers, as it is lower in calories and fat. Additionally, the rice used in the burger provides essential vitamins and minerals. Bap Burger is a convenient food that can be enjoyed on the go. It is perfect for those who are looking for a quick and tasty snack.
10. Gilgeori Toast: Korean Street Toast
Gilgeori toast is a Korean street food that consists of two slices of bread with a variety of fillings in between. The most popular fillings are cheese, ham, and eggs, but there are many other possibilities as well. Gilgeori toast is usually served with ketchup and mayonnaise on the side.
If you’re looking for a quick and easy snack while out and about in Korea, be sure to try gilgeori toast!
11. Kkwabaegi: Twisted Korean Doughnuts
These are essentially Korean doughnuts, but they’re twisted and rolled into a spiral shape. They’re then fried until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside, while still being soft and fluffy on the inside. These are often served with a sweet dipping sauce or honey.
12. Gukhwa-Ppang: Chrysanthemum Bread
Gukhwa-ppang is a type of chrysanthemum bread that is popular in Korea. The bread is made with a sweetened dough that is filled with a variety of fillings, including chrysanthemum flowers, sweet red bean paste, and chestnut paste.
Gukhwa-ppang is traditionally eaten during the autumn months, when chrysanthemums are in season. The bread can be found at most street food vendors and is often served with a cup of hot tea.
13. Ddakkochi: Korean Chicken Skewers
Ddakkochi, or Korean chicken skewers, are a popular street food in Korea. The skewers are typically made with chicken thighs or breast meat that is marinated in a variety of spices, including gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil. The chicken is then grilled over charcoal or an open flame until it is cooked through and slightly charred.
Ddakkochi makes for a great snack or appetizer, and can be enjoyed with a cold beer or soju (Korean rice wine). If you’re looking for something a little heartier, try pairing your ddakkochi with some Korean fried rice or noodles.
14. ungeo-Ppang: Korean Fish Shaped Pastry
Ppang, or Korean Fish Shaped Pastry, is a popular street food in Korea. The pastry is made from a yeasted wheat flour dough and is deep-fried. It is then coated with a sweet glaze and often filled with a sweet bean paste.
Ppang is a popular snack food in Korea and can be found at most street food vendors. It is a popular choice for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.
15. Gamja-Hotdog: Korean-style French Fries Corn Dog
Gamja-hotdog is a Korean-style corn dog, made with french fries and a hot dog sausage. The dish is popular among both children and adults, and can be found at many street food vendors in Korea.
The french fries are first deep fried until golden brown, then skewered onto a wooden stick. The hot dog sausage is then wrapped in batter and also deep fried. Once both the french fries and hot dog are cooked, they are then coated in a sweet and spicy sauce.
Gamja-hotdog is best enjoyed while piping hot, so be sure to grab one from your nearest street food vendor when you see it!
16. Guwun Garaetteok: Korean Grilled Bar Rice Cake
If you want a Korean street food that is both filling and delicious, then you should try guwun garaetteok. This grilled bar rice cake is a popular street food in Korea and is often served with a variety of toppings. The most popular toppings for guwun garaetteok are kimchi, onions, and green onions.
Guwun garaetteok is made by taking a piece of rice cake and grilling it on a hot plate. The rice cake is then cut into small pieces and served with the toppings of your choice. Guwun garaetteok is a great street food to try if you are looking for something filling and tasty.
17. Hotteok: Korean Sweet Pancakes
Hotteok is a type of Korean pancake that is made with a sweet filling, often containing brown sugar or honey. They are popular street foods in Korea and are often sold from food carts. Hotteok is a type of Korean pancake that is made with a sweet filling, often containing brown sugar or honey. They are popular street foods in Korea and are often sold from food carts.
Hotteok originates from the Joseon Dynasty, where it was known as “hujjeok”. The traditional recipe includes yeast-leavened wheat flour dough and a filling of either brown sugar or honey. The pancakes are pan-fried on one side until they are golden brown, then flipped and cooked on the other side.
Nowadays, there are many different variations of hotteok available, with different fillings such as nuts, chocolate, or fruit. You can even find savory versions of hotteok filled with Kimchi or cheese! Whether you like your hotteok sweet or savory, there’s sure to be a version that you’ll love.
18. Jjinppang: Korean Steamed Buns
Jjinppang are Korean steamed buns that are popular street foods. They are made with a flour and water dough that is steamed in a special mold. Jjinppang are typically filled with a sweet or savory filling, such as red bean paste or pork, and served warm.
Jjinppang are one of the most popular street foods in Korea. They are made with a simple flour and water dough that is steamed in a special mold. Jjinppang are usually filled with a sweet or savory filling, such as red bean paste or pork, and served warm. These little buns are a tasty snack that can be enjoyed any time of day!
19. Gun Goguma: Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a beloved snack in Korea, and Gun Goguma are roasted sweet potatoes that have been marinated in a special sauce. These potatoes are often sold by street vendors, and they are a popular snack to enjoy with friends or family.
The sweet potato is first peeled and then cut into thin slices. The slices are then marinated in a special sauce made with soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and other spices. Once the sweet potatoes are fully coated in the sauce, they are skewered and placed on a grill.
The skewers are grilled over an open flame until the sweet potatoes are cooked through and slightly charred. The finished product is a delicious and savory treat that is perfect for snacking on. Gun Goguma are best enjoyed hot off the grill, so be sure to snag one from a street vendor the next time you’re out and about in Korea!
20. Gyeran-Ppang: Egg Bread
Gyeran-ppang is a type of egg bread that is very popular in Korea. It is made by putting eggs into a dough and then frying it. The result is a delicious and fluffy bread that is perfect for any occasion.
21. Dalgona: Korean Sponge Candy
Dalgona is a Korean sponge candy that is made by whipping egg whites and sugar into a fluffy consistency, then shaping it into small balls. It is usually served with a toothpick for easy eating.
This traditional Korean treat is said to date back to the Joseon Dynasty, when it was known as “ppong ppang”. Dalgona became popular in recent years after appearing on a Korean TV show called “The Return of Superman”. The show featured a young boy who was trying to make the candy for his father. After the episode aired, dalgona became a sensation and people all over Korea started making it at home.
Dalgona is typically made with white sugar, but brown sugar or honey can be used as well. The egg whites are whipped until they form stiff peaks, then the sugar is slowly added in and mixed until it forms a thick, glossy mixture. This mixture is then spooned onto a baking sheet and formed into small balls.
Once the dalgona balls have cooled, they can be eaten as-is or dipped in coffee or tea. They can also be rolled in chocolate or nuts for an extra special treat!
22. Sotteok Sotteok: Korean Hotdog and Rice Cake Skewers
Sotteok sotteok is a street food dish consisting of Korean-style hot dogs and rice cakes skewered on a stick. The hot dogs are made with pork, beef, or chicken, and the rice cakes are made from a variety of different grains.
This dish is popular among young people and children, as it is easy to eat on the go. The skewers can be found at most street food vendors in Korea.
23. Bbeongtwigi: Korean Puffed Rice
Bbeongtwigi is a popular Korean street food made from puffed rice. The rice is first steamed, then cooled and formed into balls. It is usually served with a sweet or savory sauce.
Bbeongtwigi is a popular snack in Korea and is often eaten as a quick meal or snack. It is also a popular street food and can be found at many markets and stalls around the country. The dish is simple to make and can be easily customizable to your liking. Whether you like it sweet or savory, Bbeongtwigi is a delicious and easy way to satisfy your hunger.
24. Hweori Gamja: Tonado potatoes
These unique Tornado potatoes are a must-try! They are essentially spiralized potatoes that are deep fried and served on a skewer. You can choose to have them plain, or with cheese, kimchi, or even baconbits. They are slightly sweet and very addicting!
Final Words
As with any country, the street foods of Korea vary depending on the region. In general, however, they can be grouped into a few categories: grilled meats, fried snacks, noodle dishes, and rice dishes.
Grilled meats are some of the most popular street foods in Korea. They are often served with a dipping sauce or wrapped in a lettuce leaf. Common grilled meats include chicken, beef, and pork belly.
Fried snacks are also very popular. The most common is probably pajeon, a savory pancake made with scallions and various other ingredients. Other popular fried snacks include fish cakes, tempura vegetables, and rice cakes.
Noodle dishes are another common street food in Korea. The most famous is probably Pyongyang naengmyeon, a cold noodle dish originating from North Korea. Other popular noodle dishes include japchae (stir-fried noodles with vegetables) and kalguksu (knife-cut noodles).
Rice dishes are also quite common as street foods in Korea. The most famous is bibimbap, a rice dish topped with vegetables and meat (usually beef). Other popular rice dishes include gimbap (a type of sushi roll) and jokbal (pigs’ feet).
