Korean Food Guide for First-Time Travelers

If you're planning to visit South Korea, one of the best ways to explore its culture is through its food. Korean cuisine is flavorful, diverse, and deeply connected to the country’s history and lifestyle. Here's a guide to the must-try Korean dishes for first-time travelers.

KOREAN FOODS

 

🍲 1. Kimchi (김치)

A fermented side dish made from cabbage and radish, seasoned with chili, garlic, and fish sauce. It’s spicy, sour, and served with almost every meal.

 

 

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🍖 2. Korean BBQ (삼겹살 & 갈비)

Try samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly) and galbi (marinated beef short ribs). Grill it yourself at your table and wrap it in lettuce with garlic, sauce, and kimchi.

🍜 3. Tteokbokki (떡볶이)

Chewy rice cakes cooked in a spicy and sweet red chili sauce. A popular street food that’s often found near schools and subway stations.

🍚 4. Bibimbap (비빔밥)

Mixed rice topped with vegetables, egg, meat, and gochujang (chili paste). It’s healthy, colorful, and customizable!

🍢 5. Odeng (어묵)

Fish cakes on skewers, served in warm broth. Commonly sold by street vendors, especially during winter.

🍜 6. Jjajangmyeon (짜장면)

Black bean sauce noodles originally from China, now a Korean favorite. Often eaten on "Black Day" (April 14th) by singles.

🍖 7. Dakgalbi (닭갈비)

Spicy stir-fried chicken with vegetables and rice cakes, cooked on a large skillet at your table. Originated from Chuncheon.

🍦 8. Korean Street Desserts

• Bungeoppang (붕어빵) – Fish-shaped pastry filled with red bean or custard
• Hotteok (호떡) – Sweet syrup-filled pancakes
• Soft Serve Ice Cream – Extra tall cones found in Myeongdong!

📍 Where to Find These Foods?

Most of these dishes can be found in:

• Gwangjang Market (Seoul)
• Myeongdong Street (Seoul)
• Hongdae – Youth-friendly, trendy food spots
• Busan Jagalchi Market – Fresh seafood heaven

Bonus: Watch Korean Food Vlogs

 

 

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