Korean food reflects the culinary heritage passed down through generations, featuring a wide range of dishes—rice and soup, stews, banchan (side dishes), kimchi, seasoned vegetables, grilled meats, and more. When laid out on the table, this vibrant assortment isn't about a single dominant flavor, but rather a symphony of tastes working together in harmony.
This rich variety is deeply rooted in Korea's geography and history. At its core, Korean cuisine celebrates the art of mixing—whether it's flavors, textures, or ingredients. The experience often unfolds not just within one dish, but across an entire meal, as each diner creates their own combinations from the diverse options available.
Must-Try Korean Food for First-Time Visitors
While Korean cuisine does feature dishes that blend ingredients harmoniously in a single bowl, such as the iconic bibimbap—it more commonly follows a multi-dish dining style. Meals are typically served on a sang (a traditional dining table), where an array of small plates, each featuring distinct flavors and ingredients, are artfully arranged. This presentation, known as han-sang charim, reflects the Korean emphasis on balance, variety, and communal dining.
This table setting adheres to specific traditional guidelines. At the center, directly before the diner, are placed the rice bowl, soup, and eating utensils (spoon and chopsticks). The main course occupies a prominent position, surrounded by complementary dishes of seafood, meat and vegetables. Kimchi always maintains its essential presence in this layout. Known as "Sang" arrangement, this distinctive Korean table setting is thought to preserve culinary traditions dating back millennia.
Korean BBQ isn't just a meal—it's an experience. Centered around a grill set in the middle of the table, diners cook various cuts of meat themselves, usually beef, pork, or chicken, creating a warm and interactive dining atmosphere. It's a celebration of sizzling sounds, smoky aromas, and shared moments.
The real magic happens when you make your own ssam (lettuce wrap). Take a leaf of lettuce or perilla, add grilled meat, a bit of ssamjang (savory dipping sauce), garlic, chili, rice, or kimchi—then fold it and eat it in one bite. It's a perfect mix of textures and flavors, customizable to your taste. If you don't know how to grill, the staff at the barbecue restaurant are always ready to provide assistance.
Budae Jjigae, or Korean Army Stew, is a bold, flavorful hot pot dish that combines traditional Korean ingredients with American-style processed foods such as Spam, sausages, and baked beans. Invented after the Korean War, this fusion dish emerged from creativity in scarcity—and has since become a beloved comfort food in Korea.
After the Korean War, food was scarce. Locals near U.S. army bases began cooking surplus army rations—like canned meats and sausages—with local ingredients such as kimchi, gochujang (Korean chili paste), and tofu. The result? A spicy, hearty stew that symbolized innovation and resilience. Budae Jjigae is typically served in a large hot pot at the center of the table, perfect for sharing among friends or family. As the ingredients simmer, the flavors meld into a rich, satisfying broth that keeps you coming back for more.
Samgyetang is a traditional Korean health-boosting dish, no spiciness, light taste, and is very suitable for people who are not resistant to spicinessespecially popular during the hot summer months. Its name comes from its two main ingredients: "sam" (ginseng) and "gye" (chicken). This nourishing soup features a whole young chicken stuffed with glutinous rice, ginseng, jujubes, garlic, chestnuts, and other nutrient-rich ingredients, all simmered for hours until the meat becomes tender and the broth turns rich and milky.
Tosokchon Samgyetang in Seoul, located near Gyeongbokgung Palace, is a famous restaurant loved by both tourists and locals, often with long lines. Many traditional restaurants also offer samgyetang set menus accompanied by side dishes (banchan), making it a great opportunity to experience Korea's medicinal food culture.
Korean Street Food You Can't Miss
On a trip to South Korea, one snack you absolutely can't miss is the tantalizingly spicy Tteokbokki. This classic Korean street food is made by stir-frying rice cakes (rice cakes) and fish cakes in a special spicy sauce (gochujang). The sauce is rich, spicy, and sweet, a dish that will both awaken your taste buds and warm your body. Walk the streets of Seoul, Busan, or Daegu, and you'll find tteokbokki in nearly every market and night market—from traditional vendors to modern pop-up food trucks. It's more than just a snack; it's a culinary memory that locals have enjoyed since childhood.
Whether you're traveling in South Korea, taking train stations, passing by convenience stores, or traditional markets, you'll find gimbap (seaweed rice rolls). This classic Korean dish, resembling sushi, consists of rice and a variety of toppings wrapped in seaweed, making it a popular light meal for locals and tourists alike.
Gimbap fillings vary greatly: common options include yellow radish strips, spinach, egg, pickled radish, ham, beef, tuna salad, and even spicy rice cakes. Each roll showcases Koreans' ingenious use of ingredients. It is not only this dish rich in color and flavor, but it's also portable, making it a great light snack for day trips, hikes, or even on public transportation. Many convenience stores, street vendors, and even the dedicated "Gimbap Heaven" restaurant chain offer freshly made gimbap in a variety of flavors at affordable prices and generous portions.
On the streets of South Korea in winter, the most captivating thing isn't just the romance of falling snow; it's the crispy, soft, and sweet hotteok (a traditional Korean dessert) that brims with flavor. This traditional Korean dessert is an irresistible winter treat for locals and tourists alike.
Hotteok, made from fermented dough and then pan-fried, reveals a filling typically filled with warm brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts, offering a sweet yet fragrant aroma. Recent innovations have led to modern variations of hotteok, including green tea, cheese, honey, and multi-grain flavors. More than just a dessert, hotteok embodies the memories and warmth of Korean winter. At Gwangjang Market in Seoul, Hongdae Night Market, or Nampodong in Busan, you'll often see bustling lines waiting for hotteok to be served.
Strolling the streets of South Korea, especially during the chilly autumn and winter months, it's hard not to be drawn to the steaming pots of fish cakes on the street vendors. Fish cakes (Eomuk / Odeng) are a delicacy made from minced fish mixed with starch. They're typically skewered on bamboo sticks and served warm in hot broth. The bite is delicious and chewy, and the broth warms both the stomach and the heart.
In South Korea, Odeng are more than just a convenient snack. It is deeply emotional "national delicacy". They're widely available in traditional markets, food stalls, convenience stores, and even fine restaurants. Each region's fish cake flavor and broth recipes vary slightly, reflecting the local culinary culture. Stopping to sample a skewer of fish cakes at a roadside stall during your travels is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in Korean street culture. Enjoy them with a bowl of hot soup, spicy rice cakes, or fried seaweed rolls for a truly unique taste of Korean street food.
Exploring the vibrant streets of Seoul, relaxing at Busan's seaside bars, or diving into Hongdae's nightlife, Korean fried chicken (or "chikin") is an absolute must-try. Known for its ultra-crispy double-fried exterior and rich sauces, ranging from sweet soy garlic to spicy red chili pepper, this beloved dish is often enjoyed with a cold beer, affectionately referred to as "chimaek" (치맥: chicken + mahjong/beer). Fried chicken takeout is, arguably, a Korean institution.
Beyond Kimchi: Discovering Korea's Unique Local Flavors and Traditions
When most people think of Korean cuisine, kimchi is the first dish that comes to mind. But beyond this iconic fermented delicacy lies a rich tapestry of regional flavors and time-honored traditions waiting to be explored. From the earthy taste of Gangneung's potato dumplings (감자만두) to the fresh, Andong-Style Spicy Braised Chicken, every corner of Korea tells a different culinary story. These local specialties are deeply rooted in the land, climate, and history of their regions, passed down through generations as part of Korea's living heritage. Traveling through the country becomes a sensory journey — one where markets bustle with seasonal produce, seaside towns serve up ocean-fresh catches, and centuries-old recipes continue to bring families and communities together. Beyond kimchi, you discover not just food, but the soul of Korea.
Gyeongsang's fiery Dakbokkeumtang (닭볶음탕) is a bold celebration of Korea's southeastern flavors. Tender chicken pieces are simmered in a deep-red broth infused with gochujang (fermented chili paste), gochugaru (chili flakes), and a punch of minced garlic, creating a complex heat that lingers on the palate. Unlike milder versions, this dish amps up the spice with extra chilies—a signature of Gyeongsang Province’s robust cuisine.
Sweet potatoes, carrots, and chewy rice cakes absorb the rich sauce, while a final sprinkle of perilla leaves adds an earthy aroma. Served sizzling in a heavy pot, it's traditionally paired with icy makgeolli (rice wine) to balance the burn. Born in Busan’s working-class kitchens, this dish embodies the region's love for unapologetically intense flavors.
Jeonju, often called the culinary capital of South Korea, is the proud birthplace of bibimbap, one of the nation's most beloved dishes. This colorful rice bowl is a feast for both the eyes and the palate — warm, fluffy rice topped with a vibrant assortment of seasoned vegetables, savory beef, a fried egg, and a dollop of spicy-sweet gochujang (red chili paste). What makes Jeonju's version unique is its emphasis on freshness, balance, and traditional preparation methods passed down through generations. Often served in a sizzling hot stone bowl (dolsot), it keeps every bite warm and delicious. Sampling Jeonju bibimbap isn't just a meal — it's an immersion into the city's rich food heritage, best enjoyed in the charming atmosphere of Jeonju Hanok Village.
Gangneung Gamja Mandu (Potato Dumplings) — A Chewy and Flavorful Local Specialty from Korea's East Coast. Made from potato starch instead of wheat flour, these dumplings have a soft yet pleasantly chewy texture that sets them apart from ordinary varieties. The translucent wrappers encase a flavorful filling, often made with minced pork, vegetables, and glass noodles, creating a perfect balance of taste and texture.
Recommended Restaurants in South Korea
We have introduced many Korean cuisines and food, but you may have doubts about where to find the corresponding food. Next, we will recommend restaurants for you. If you are interested, you can click on the UME Travel, and we provide free services to book your desired restaurant based on your dining time and number of people.
Traditional Restaurants
Seoul
1. Korea House (한국의집)
Experience Korea's royal cuisine and culture under one roof at Korea House, located near Namsan Mountain. Dine in a traditional hanok setting while enjoying performances of traditional music and dance. Their royal banquet (hanjeongsik) offers an authentic taste of Korean heritage.
Location: Near Namsan Seoul Tower
Nearest Subway: Chungmuro Station (Lines 3 & 4), 10-minute walk
2. Jihwaja (지화자)
Step into a world of Joseon Dynasty royal cuisine with meticulously prepared dishes based on historic recipes. Ideal for visitors interested in Korea's rich history and fine dining traditions.
Location: Jongno District
Nearest Subway: Anguk Station (Line 3), 5-minute walk
3. Tosokchon Samgyetang (토속촌 삼계탕)
Famous for its nourishing ginseng chicken soup, this cozy restaurant is a must-visit especially during summer. The hearty soup is believed to restore energy and health.
Location: Near Gyeongbokgung Palace
Nearest Subway: Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3), 2-minute walk
Jeonju
4. Gogung (고궁)
Known as the birthplace of bibimbap, Gogung serves this iconic mixed rice dish in an atmospheric hanok-style building. Enjoy fresh, locally sourced ingredients that make Jeonju bibimbap so special.
Location: Hanok Village, Jeonju
Nearest Bus Stop: Hanok Maeul Stop, short walk
5. Veteran (베테랑 칼국수)
A beloved local noodle shop famous for its hand-cut kalguksu (knife-cut noodles). Simple yet hearty dishes loved by both locals and travelers.
Location: Downtown Jeonju
Nearest Bus Stop: Jeonju Station, 10-minute walk
Gyeongsang Province
6. Andong Jjimdak Alley (안동찜닭골목)
Discover the savory sweetness of Andong's signature spicy braised chicken at several traditional eateries clustered in Andong's old market alley. Perfect for sharing with friends or family.
Location: Central Andong Market
Nearest Bus Stop: Andong Terminal, 5-minute walk
7. Haeundae Somunnan Amso Galbijip (해운대 소문난 암소갈비집)
A must-visit in Busan for premium grilled beef ribs marinated in traditional sauces, offering tender meat with rich flavors.
Location: Haeundae Beach Area, Busan
Nearest Subway: Haeundae Station (Line 2), 8-minute walk
Gangwon Province
8. Gangneung Jungang Market Mandu Stalls (강릉 중앙시장 만두집)
Taste the local specialty gamja mandu (potato dumplings) and other street food favorites at the bustling central market of Gangneung, where tradition meets vibrant daily life.
Location: Jungang Market, Gangneung
Nearest Bus Stop: Jungang Market, direct access
9. Chodang Sundubu Village (초당 순두부마을)
Famous for its silky soft tofu dishes made from seawater-coagulated soybeans, this village offers a unique and fresh culinary experience in Gangwon.
Location: Near Gyeongpo Lake, Gangneung
Nearest Bus Stop: Chodang Village Stop
Jeju Island
10. Myeongjin Jeonbok (명진전복)
Enjoy fresh abalone delicacies like abalone hotpot and stone pot rice, showcasing Jeju's rich ocean bounty with simple, authentic flavors.
Location: Near Seogwipo
Nearest Bus Stop: Seogwipo Bus Terminal, short taxi ride
11. Hwaro Hyang (화로향)
Savor Jeju’s renowned black pork grilled over charcoal, paired with local sides and dipping sauces that bring out its unique taste and tenderness.
Location: Jeju City Center
Nearest Bus Stop: Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal
Popular Trendy Restaurants
In recent years, trendy restaurants in South Korea have become hugely popular, especially in Seoul and Busan. These places are known not only for their delicious food but also for unique interior designs, creative dishes, or Instagram-worthy photo spots. Here are some famous trendy restaurant recommendations:
Seoul
1. Cafe Onion (카페 어니언): Famous for its retro industrial design and signature red bean bread. The spacious, stylish interior makes it a perfect spot for photos.
2. Thanks Nature Cafe (땡스네이처카페): One of the few alpaca cafes in Seoul, where visitors can enjoy coffee while interacting with adorable alpacas—very popular among young tourists.
3. Stylenanda Pink Pool Cafe (스타일난다 핑크풀카페): Operated by the fashion brand Stylenanda, this pink-themed pool cafe is extremely Instagrammable and trendy.
4. Line Friends Cafe & Store: A cafe themed around LINE characters, filled with cute decorations that attract young people and tourists alike.
5. Jaha Sonmandu (자하손만두): Famous for handmade dumplings, combining traditional and modern Korean cuisine in a trendy setting.
Busan
1. The Bay 101: An open-air restaurant facing the bay with stunning night views, making it a popular spot for photos and relaxation.
2. Pojangmacha (포장마차) Street Food Stalls: Busan's outdoor night market atmosphere is perfect for tasting seafood and Korean street food, making it a trendy hangout spot.