Korean Street Food in 2024: 16 Street Foods You Need to Try

As I wander through Seoul’s busy streets, I’m always struck by the amazing street food culture here. It’s like stepping into a world where every corner and alleyway offers something delicious to try. I’ve always believed that if you want to really understand local food culture, street food is the way to go, and Korea is no exception. It’s a fantastic experience that I recommend to everyone visiting.

Korean street food is not just tasty; it’s incredibly diverse. From spicy rice cakes known as tteokbokki to sweet-filled pancakes called hotteok, there’s something for every palate. However, over the time I’ve been in Korea, I have encountered some street food tips that I want to share. For example, while street food is generally affordable, I’ve noticed that places like Myeongdong, which are popular with tourists, tend to charge more. Here, the price of a street snack can sometimes match that of a full meal at a less crowded spot. So, while these areas are buzzing and fun to visit, you might want to explore other parts of the city for cheaper eats if you’re on a budget.

Sometimes, the best food comes from the most unexpected places. Some of the most delicious meals I’ve had were from plain-looking stalls that you might walk past without a second glance. These hidden gems serve up some of the most authentic and mouth-watering dishes you’ll find anywhere in the city.
So, my advice to anyone looking to dive into Korean street food is simple: be adventurous, don’t let the busy tourist spots drain your wallet and keep an eye out for those unassuming stalls. They might just offer you the best meal you’ll have in Korea.

Since I know a lot of people worry about the hygiene of street food, I want to allay your fears before diving into this article fully, as one thing that surprises many people is how clean street food in Korea is. Despite the hustle and bustle, the vendors maintain high hygiene standards. I’ve eaten street food all over Korea and have never had a bad experience health-wise. It’s something I don’t even worry about anymore.

After living in Korea for seven years, I’ve learned much about the street food scene. I’ve discovered where to find the tastiest dishes, how to enjoy great food without spending too much, and the kinds of food you have to try. I’ve also picked up on the right way to do things, the street food etiquette that will improve your experience. In this post, I want to share all these tips with you.

Whether it’s your first time trying Korean street food or you’re looking to explore more, I hope my advice will help you make the most of it. From finding hidden gems to knowing what to order, I’m here to guide you through the amazing world of Korean street food. Let’s get started and dive into Korea’s delicious and exciting food culture.

Korean Street Food Etiquette

Before navigating the vibrant world of Korean street food and the many savouring flavours, it’s important to know how to respect the culture and practices that come with it. Here’s an expanded list of Korean street food etiquette to ensure you enjoy your culinary adventure while showing consideration for the vendors and fellow food enthusiasts:

• Eat and Move On at Seated Areas: If you find a spot with seats, it’s courteous to eat your meal and then make space for others. Lingering too long or staying after you’ve finished eating can be considered inconsiderate, especially during busy times.
• Consideration for Small Orders: When you’ve only ordered a small item, think twice about taking a seat if the place is busy. Seats are often reserved for those ordering full meals or larger orders. While stall owners likely won’t say anything directly, they will often be upset if you take a seat that a higher-paying customer could have used.
• Prefer Cash and Small Notes: Paying with cash, particularly smaller denominations, is greatly appreciated. This makes transactions smoother and helps avoid the inconvenience of making changes for large bills. If your meal costs 7,000 KRW, pay with a 10,000 KRW note rather than a 50,000 KRW note to avoid any frustration. It’s also possible that the vendor won’t have enough change if you pay a large bill.
• Queue Respectfully: If there’s a line, join it patiently. Cutting in line is frowned upon, and respecting the queue is a simple way to show respect for both the vendors and your fellow customers.
• Be Mindful of Waste: Many street food vendors provide bins for waste disposal. Make sure to use these and help keep the streets clean. If you can’t find a bin, hold onto your trash until you do.
• Try to Speak Some Korean: Even if it’s just basic phrases like “Hello” (안녕하세요, annyeonghaseyo), “Thank you” (감사합니다, gamsahabnida), and “How much?” (얼마예요?, eolmayeyo?), making an effort to speak the language is appreciated and can enrich your interaction with vendors.
• Explore Beyond the Main Streets: The best street food often comes from less crowded areas. By venturing off the main tourist paths, you not only discover unique dishes but also show respect for local businesses. You’ll quickly find that these vendors are often very thankful for your business.
• Be Open to Recommendations: Sometimes, the menu may be overwhelming or not in English. Don’t hesitate to ask the vendor for their recommendation. It’s a great way to try something new and often leads to a pleasant surprise.

By keeping these etiquette tips in mind, you’ll not only enjoy the delicious tastes of Korean street food but also engage with the culture and people in a respectful and meaningful way. Happy exploring!

Regional and Seasonal Streetfood Specialities

Exploring the diverse landscape of Korean street food reveals a world rich with regional and seasonal specialities that cater to every taste and preference. As someone who has spent years savouring Korea’s many flavours, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for how food changes with the seasons and from one region to another. It’s a testament to the country’s culinary diversity and the local pride in their food traditions. Let’s take a look at some of these local and seasonal specialities!

Seasonal Specialities

Spring

• Bomdong Geotjeori (Spring Cabbage Salad): Early spring welcomes the harvest of bomdong, a sweet and tender cabbage. Street vendors often serve it as a fresh, lightly seasoned salad, offering a crisp and refreshing snack that captures the essence of spring.
• Ddeokbokki with Fresh Spring Greens: While ddeokbokki is a year-round favourite, in spring, it’s often served with fresh, seasonal greens. The addition of these greens adds a fresh, slightly bitter contrast to the spicy and sweet sauce.

Summer

• Patbingsu (Shaved Ice with Sweet Red Beans): A quintessential summer treat, patbingsu consists of finely shaved ice topped with sweet red beans, fruit, and condensed milk. It’s a refreshing escape from the summer heat, with variations including green tea, coffee, and fruit syrups.
• Oi Sobagi (Cucumber Kimchi): This stuffed cucumber kimchi is a summer favourite, offering a crunchy, cool, and spicy snack. It’s less fermented than traditional kimchi, making it a refreshing side dish or snack during the warmer months. This is easily my favourite kimchi!
• Gimbap with Summer Vegetables: Gimbap, Korea’s answer to sushi rolls, is filled with fresh summer vegetables like spinach, cucumber, and carrots during this season. It’s a light, nutritious snack perfect for picnics or a quick bite on the go.

Autumn

• Songpyeon (Half-moon Shaped Rice Cake): Celebrated during Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving), songpyeon is a steamed rice cake filled with sweet fillings like sesame seeds and honey. It’s shaped like a half-moon and steamed over pine needles for a distinctive flavour.
• Baechu Kimchi (Napa Cabbage Kimchi): Autumn is the season for kimjang, the traditional process of making kimchi that lasts through the winter. Baechu kimchi, made with Napa cabbage, is the most common type prepared during this time, characterized by its rich, fermented flavours.
• Sweet Potatoes and Chestnuts: Roasted sweet potatoes and chestnuts are popular in autumn as well, transitioning from the warm to the cooler weather. These roasted treats are not only delicious but also evoke a sense of the changing season.

Winter

• Gyeran-bbang (Egg Bread): This simple yet satisfying snack features a whole egg baked into a slightly sweet, fluffy bread, often seasoned with seeds or cheese. The warmth of the freshly baked bread combined with the richness of the egg creates a comforting snack perfect for cold weather.
• Odeng (Fish Cake): Served on skewers and simmered in a warming broth, odeng is popular throughout the colder months. The savory fish cakes paired with the hot, flavorful broth not only provide warmth but also a deliciously light meal or snack.
• Hoddeok (Sweet Rice Cake): Hoddeok is often filled with sweet syrup made from brown sugar and nuts. It’s a chewy, warm, and comforting snack that’s especially popular in the colder seasons. Just be careful! This food is extremely hot inside, and it’s very easy to bun yourself – I certainly have.
• Sweet Potato Snacks: Roasted or fried sweet potatoes are a winter favourite, offering a natural sweetness and a hearty bite. Whether enjoyed whole and roasted or sliced and fried, they’re a nutritious and warming street food option.
• Roasted Chestnuts: The aroma of roasted chestnuts is a hallmark of Korean winter streets. These nutty, warm treats are not only delicious but also evoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort during the cold season.

Regional specialities

The regional specialities of Korea offer a glimpse into the local flavours and culinary practices unique to each area. Let’s discuss a few of my favourites!

• Sundae (Korean Sausage) in Busan: This traditional Korean blood sausage, made with noodles and pork blood, is a delicacy in Busan. Often served with salt, it’s a savoury, rich dish that’s a must-try for adventurous foodies.
• Dakgangjeong (Sweet Crispy Chicken) in Myeongdong: This dish features bite-sized chicken pieces coated in a sweet and spicy sauce, deep-fried to perfection. It’s a modern Korean street food classic known for its addictive flavour and crispy texture.
• Chimaek (Chicken & Beer) in Daegu: While not exclusive to Daegu, the city has its own take on this beloved combination, with local variations of fried chicken paired with Korean beer, creating the perfect balance of flavours and textures.
• Jeon (Korean Pancakes) in Jeonju: Known for its variety of traditional Korean foods, Jeonju offers some of the best jeon, including seafood, green onion, and kimchi pancakes. These savoury pancakes are a testament to the city’s rich culinary heritage. I had the best Jeon I’ve eaten in Jeonju!
• Pajeon (Green Onion Pancake) in Incheon: Incheon’s version of this popular snack is known for its generous use of green onions, creating a pancake that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, often enjoyed with a side of soy sauce for dipping.

Exploring these seasonal and regional specialities offers a taste of Korea’s diverse culinary landscape and an insight into the country’s culture, traditions, and the way food brings people together. From the comforting warmth of winter snacks to the unique flavours found in different regions, Korean street food is a journey of discovery, one delicious bite at a time.

Where to Eat Streetfood in Korea

Seoul

Exploring Korea’s street food scene is an adventure, offering a range of flavours, aromas, and experiences. Each location has its own charm, specialities, and atmosphere, catering to different tastes and preferences. Here’s a detailed look at some of the best places to experience street food in Korea, reflecting my personal experiences in each. First, I will cover locations in Seoul and then discuss a few in Busan for anyone staying in the coastal city.

Myeongdong

Myeongdong is often the first stop for many tourists seeking street food in Seoul. While it boasts a vibrant atmosphere and a wide variety of food stalls, I find it to be pricier and not particularly authentic compared to other areas. The area is known for its shopping and beauty products, and the street food here tends to cater more to international tastes with an array of trendy and fusion dishes. Prices are notably higher due to its popularity among tourists, making it less appealing to those searching for traditional Korean street food experiences.

Gwangjang Market

Gwangjang Market is a must-visit for anyone looking to dive deeper into Korea’s authentic street food scene. Known as one of the oldest traditional markets in Seoul, it offers an array of dishes that provide a real taste of Korean cuisine. The market is famous for its bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), a crispy and savoury snack that is perfectly paired with a bowl of makgeolli (rice wine). Despite its popularity among tourists, Gwangjang Market maintains reasonable prices and a genuinely local atmosphere, making it a preferred choice over Myeongdong for those searching for an authentic culinary experience.

Namdaemun Market

Namdaemun Market, the largest traditional market in Korea, offers a dizzying array of street food that ranges from Korean staples to unique local delicacies. To find the best food, I recommend venturing into the side alleys and smaller streets surrounding the market. These areas might seem a bit hidden away, but they’re safe and home to some of the most exceptional street food stalls, offering dishes at more affordable prices compared to the main thoroughfares. The market’s lively atmosphere and the variety of food make it an exciting place to explore, with the promise of delicious discoveries down every alley.

Hongdae

Hongdae, known for its youthful vibe and creative spirit, is a hub for trendy and innovative street food. The area caters to a younger crowd, with street food options that range from traditional Korean snacks to new, experimental dishes that blend different culinary traditions. Prices in Hongdae are generally affordable, reflecting the area’s student population. It’s a great place to explore in the evening, as many stalls open up to serve the crowds looking for a quick bite before a night out.

Insadong

Insadong is where traditional Korean culture and food converge, offering visitors a taste of the country’s culinary history. The area is more known for its tea houses and traditional restaurants, but you can still find street food stalls selling classic snacks like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and gimbap (seaweed rice rolls). Insadong’s street food might not be as varied as in other areas, but it’s worth exploring for those interested in the cultural context of Korean cuisine.

Majang Meat Market

For meat lovers, Majang Meat Market is an unparalleled destination. This market specializes in fresh, high-quality meats that you can either take home or have cooked on the spot at one of the many small restaurants within the market. The experience of selecting your cuts and then watching them being grilled to perfection is both unique and satisfying. Prices vary depending on the meat you choose, but the quality justifies the cost. It’s a fantastic way to explore Korea’s meat dishes beyond the typical barbecue restaurants.

Noryangjin Fish Market

Noryangjin Fish Market offers an authentic look at Korea’s seafood culture. Visitors can wander through rows of fresh seafood, choosing their picks to be prepared immediately by skilled chefs. It’s a haven for seafood enthusiasts, offering everything from sashimi to grilled fish at reasonable prices. The market is a bit more specialized, focusing solely on seafood, but it’s a must-visit for those wanting to experience the freshest catch in a traditional market setting.

Other Notable Places

Exploring local markets and lesser-known neighbourhoods often leads to the most memorable street food experiences. Each district and market has its own speciality, reflecting the diversity of Korean cuisine. Areas like Dongdaemun for late-night snacks, the streets around Ewha Woman’s University for budget-friendly eats, and the culinary offerings of Seochon Village showcase the depth and breadth of Korea’s street food scene.

In my years of exploring Korea’s street food, I’ve found that the best experiences often come from stepping off the beaten path. While popular spots like Myeongdong offer convenience, the local markets and hidden alleys truly capture the heart of Korea’s culinary culture.

Busan

Busan, Korea’s vibrant coastal city, offers a distinct street food scene that reflects its seaside culture and cosmopolitan flair. Just as diverse and exciting as Seoul’s, Busan’s street food landscape is infused with local specialities, particularly seafood, that you won’t find anywhere else in the country. Here are a few places in Busan where visitors can dive into the local street food culture, each offering a unique taste of the city’s rich culinary offerings.

Nampo-dong and Gukje Market

Nampo-dong, especially around Gukje Market, is a bustling area known for its wide array of street food stalls and vendors. The market serves as a culinary melting pot, where you can find traditional Korean snacks alongside Busan specialities like ssiat hotteok (seed-stuffed sweet pancake) and eomuk (fish cakes). Gukje Market’s street food is reasonably priced, offering a chance to try a variety of dishes without breaking the bank. The atmosphere here, with its mix of locals and tourists, makes for an authentic Busan street food experience. Although it doesn’t make it on many travel itineraries, I always recommend this market to visitors due to the great selection of food here.

Jagalchi Fish Market

As Korea’s largest seafood market, Jagalchi Market is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Busan’s seafood street food. The market is teeming with vendors selling freshly caught seafood that can be enjoyed raw, grilled, or fried right on the spot. Prices vary depending on the seafood you choose, but the freshness and quality are unparalleled. Dining here offers not just a meal but an immersive experience of Korea’s seafood culture, with the bustling market and ocean backdrop adding to the ambience.

BIFF Square

Located in the heart of Busan’s film district, BIFF Square is a popular spot for street food enthusiasts. Named after the Busan International Film Festival, the area is lined with street vendors offering a variety of Korean snacks, from traditional tteokbokki and mandu (dumplings) to Busan-specific treats like fried squid and seafood pancakes. The prices in BIFF Square are tourist-friendly, and the area’s lively atmosphere, filled with the buzz of movie-goers and food lovers, makes it an exciting place to sample street food.

Haeundae Market

Near the famous Haeundae Beach, Haeundae Market is another excellent spot for street food in Busan. While smaller than Nampo-dong or Jagalchi, it offers a concentrated taste of local cuisine, including mouth-watering options like grilled shellfish, spicy stir-fried octopus, and pajeon (seafood and green onion pancake). The market is particularly enjoyable in the warmer months when you can take your food to the beach for a seaside picnic. Prices here are competitive, making it a great place to enjoy a variety of dishes. Since you’ll probably already visit the beach during your trip, why not check out the market too?

Millak Raw Fish Town

Located near Gwangalli Beach, Millak Raw Fish Town is a hidden gem for those looking to try hoe (Korean-style sashimi). This area, less known to tourists, offers the freshest fish and seafood, sliced up and served raw, accompanied by traditional sides and sauces. It’s a more specialized experience, focusing on raw seafood, but it’s highly recommended for its quality and the authentic local dining culture it represents. Prices are fair, especially considering the freshness and variety of seafood on offer.

Each of these locations in Busan offers a unique glimpse into the city’s street food culture, showcasing the diversity and richness of Korean cuisine. Busan’s street food scene is as vibrant and welcoming as the city, from bustling markets to seaside stalls, promising delicious discoveries at every turn.

16 Korean Street Foods to Try

1. Bungeoppang

Bungeoppang captures the essence of Korean street food during the winter months. This delightful snack, shaped like a fish and filled with sweet red bean paste, is a common sight. However, it’s the custard-filled bungeoppang that steals my heart. The creamy, sweet filling encased in a crispy, golden shell offers a comforting treat against the cold. There’s something incredibly satisfying about wandering through Korea’s lively streets, bungeoppang in hand, feeling the warmth seep through your fingers as you take that first delicious bite.

2. Hotteok

Hotteok is another winter favourite of mine, though it comes with a word of caution. This sweet pancake is stuffed with a hot, syrupy mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts, making each bite a delicious hazard. The first time I tried hotteok, I underestimated how hot the filling could be and ended up with a burnt tongue. Yet, the pain hasn’t deterred me; the allure of the crispy exterior giving way to the sweet, molten centre is too tempting to resist. It’s a treat I recommend to all, with the advice to let it cool just a bit before diving in.

3. Tteokbokki

Tteokbokki is a dish that embodies the spirit of Korean street food. These spicy, chewy rice cakes are drenched in a vibrant red sauce, offering a mix of flavours that are hard to forget. While tteokbokki is widely available, there’s something special about enjoying it from a street stall. Surrounded by the hustle and bustle, eating tteokbokki feels like participating in a shared cultural moment. The sauce’s heat, balanced with the soft texture of the rice cakes, makes for a comforting and exciting snack.

4. Odeng

Odeng, or fish cake on a skewer, served in a light, savoury broth, is my go-to comfort food on chilly evenings. The simplicity of odeng belies its rich flavour; the fish cakes are tender and savoury, while the broth provides a soothing warmth. I’ve often found myself gravitating towards odeng stalls, drawn in by the inviting aroma and the promise of a warm, satisfying snack. It’s a humble dish, but one that perfectly captures the warmth and hospitality found in Korean street food culture.

5. Hweori Gamja

Hweori gamja, with its eye-catching spiral shape, offers a playful take on the traditional fried potato. These “tornado potatoes” are skewered, deep-fried, and then dusted with your choice of seasoning, from cheese to sweet honey. For someone who enjoys potato chips, hweori gamja is a delightful alternative. The crunchy exterior and soft interior, combined with the fun of eating off a stick, make hweori gamja not just a snack but an experience. It’s this unique combination of taste and presentation that has made it one of my favourite street food discoveries.

6. Gimbap

Gimbap stands out as a versatile and convenient snack, tightly rolled with seaweed around rice, vegetables, and often slices of egg, meat, or fish. Its appeal lies in its portability and the variety it offers, making it a go-to choice for meals on the move. I’ve found myself reaching for gimbap time and again, drawn by the different fillings that turn each bite into a discovery. It’s the perfect blend of wholesome ingredients and satisfying flavours, embodying the simplicity and richness of Korean cuisine.

7. Sundae

Sundae may initially raise eyebrows with its unconventional ingredients, but this Korean blood sausage, filled with noodles and finely ground meat, encapsulates a depth of flavour that’s unexpectedly savoury and complex. While I’m not the biggest fan of this dish, it’s a testament to Korea’s culinary diversity, offering a rich, textural experience that I now recommend to adventurous eaters seeking authenticity.

8. Mandu

With its tender wrappers enclosing a hearty mix of meat and vegetables, the humble mandu has quickly become one of my comfort food favourites. Whether steamed, boiled, or fried, each method of preparation enhances the dumplings’ flavours and textures in its own way. I’m particularly fond of the steamed variety, which pairs wonderfully with a side of tangy soy sauce. Mandu captures the essence of comfort in each bite, making it a must-try for anyone craving a taste of home-cooked warmth on the go.

9. Bingsu

On hot summer days, bingsu is a refreshing oasis. This shaved ice dessert, once simple but now often adorned with an array of toppings like fresh fruit, sweet red bean, and decadent syrups, offers a cool respite from the heat. Every serving is a delight, with the ice’s melt-in-your-mouth texture mingling with sweet, flavorful toppings for an instant mood lift. Sharing a large bowl of bingsu with friends has become one of my favourite ways to enjoy Korea’s summer, making memories over spoonfuls of this icy treat.

10. Dakgangjeong

Dakgangjeong, with its irresistible combination of sweet, spicy, and crispy, has earned a special place in my heart – especially in winter. This dish of bite-sized chicken pieces, fried to perfection and then glazed in a sticky sauce, strikes the perfect balance between crunch and flavour. Each piece is a burst of joy, showcasing how simple ingredients can be transformed into a snack that’s hard to put down. It’s become a staple of my street food adventures.

11. Tteok-kkochi

Tteok-kkochi, or grilled rice cake skewers, have quickly become one of my favourites for their simplicity and flavour. These skewers are brushed with a sweet and spicy sauce, then grilled until the sauce caramelizes, and the rice cakes become crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. The contrast of textures and the heat from the sauce make tteok-kkochi a snack I crave, especially during outdoor festivals or on cooler evenings.

12. Chimaek

Chimaek, short for “chicken and maekju (beer),” might be more of a food combo than a single street food item, but it’s an essential Korean experience. The crispy, often spicy or sweetly glazed chicken paired with a cold beer is the perfect end to a day of exploring. While traditionally enjoyed in restaurants or bars, the essence of chimaek can also be captured at street stalls, where you can enjoy crispy chicken bites on the go. It’s not just the food but the act of sharing this combo with friends that makes chimaek a highlight of Korean street food culture.

13. Korean Hotdogs

Korean hotdogs, or corn dogs, offer a unique twist on a familiar concept, and they’re a far cry from the hotdogs I was used to. Often coated in a layer of sugar or slathered in a spicy sauce, these treats come with a surprising mix of flavours. While the sugar coating isn’t exactly to my liking, making the hotdog sweeter than I prefer, the versions with spicy sauce definitely hit the spot. The contrast of the crispy outer batter with the juicy sausage inside, coupled with that kick of spice, makes for a compelling street food experience, albeit an unexpected one.

14. Ddeok (Rice Cakes)

Ddeok, or rice cakes, are incredibly versatile and can be found in a myriad of forms across Korea, from sweet to savoury and everything in between. My personal favourite is honey ddeok, which combines the chewy texture of rice cake with the sweet, natural flavour of honey. It’s a simple yet satisfying treat that works well in almost any situation, whether as a quick snack or a dessert. The sweetness of the honey complements the subtle flavour of the rice cake, making it a delightful bite every time.

15. Jeon (Savoury Pancakes)

Jeon, savoury pancakes made with a variety of ingredients like vegetables, seafood, or meat, is a staple in Korean cuisine. These pancakes are not only delicious on their own but also make an excellent pairing with makgeolli, a traditional Korean rice wine. The combination of the crispy, flavorful jeon with the slightly sweet, fizzy makgeolli is a match made in heaven, perfect for a rainy day or a cosy evening with friends. It’s a pairing I’ve come to recommend for anyone looking to enjoy a quintessential Korean dining experience.

16. Bindaetteok

Bindaetteok, a type of jeon made from ground mung beans and mixed with vegetables and sometimes pork, holds a special place in my heart. This pancake is heartier and has a distinct texture that sets it apart from other varieties of jeon. Like its counterparts, bindaetteok pairs wonderfully with makgeolli, making it an ideal choice for those looking to indulge in traditional Korean flavours. The crisp exterior and soft interior of the pancake, along with the rich, savoury taste, provide the perfect canvas for the makgeolli to shine, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Conclusion – Korean Street Food in 2o24

Wrapping up our journey through Korea’s street food, I’ve realized just how much these dishes offer a real taste of Korean culture. From Seoul’s busy streets to Busan’s vibrant markets, street food is everywhere, and it’s something you shouldn’t miss. Sticking only to restaurants means missing out on so much. Street food in Korea is not only delicious but also clean and safe, so there’s no need to worry about hygiene.

Throughout my years here, I’ve tried everything from spicy tteokbokki to sweet hotteok, and I’ve learned that Korean street food can be a highlight of your visit. It’s affordable, diverse, and always packed with flavour. Whether it’s the unique Korean hotdogs, savoury pancakes like jeon and bindaetteok, or even the simple yet versatile ddeok, there’s something amazing about being able to snack on these treats right on the street.

My advice to anyone visiting Korea is simple: don’t just eat at restaurants. Sure, they’re great, but street food is where you’ll find some of the most authentic and tasty dishes. It’s a chance to dive deeper into Korean culture and connect with locals. Plus, eating street food is fun and lets you try so many different things without spending a lot.

So, don’t be scared to try street food in Korea. It’s a key part of the experience here, and honestly, some of it is amazing. It’s more than just food; it’s a way to explore, enjoy, and embrace the vibrant life on Korea’s streets. Go ahead, give it a try, and who knows? You might just find your new favourite dish. Happy exploring, and enjoy every bite!