This is by no means representative of all of the amazing Korean foods that you should partake in, and I’m even thinking another post might be in order as I type this. Nonetheless, I think these are some foods you can’t go wrong with if you find yourself traveling around South Korea. I’m getting hungry just thinking about it! Obviously, this is just my opinion, and definitely eat at your own risk, but without further ado:
- 치맥 (Chimaek): In Korean, this word is a combination of exactly what you end up eating, with “chi” referring to chicken and “maek” meaning beer. In all honesty, while in Seoul I quite possibly ate some of the best fried chicken I have had in all my life. Add on the presence of beer? I’m sold. I got lucky because one of the places near where I was staying in Sinchon almost always had free samples out.
2. 비빔밥 (Bibimbop): This was my go-to in Yonsei’s cafeteria, as it was super cheap and delicious. No bibimbop is the same, but you’ll usually find rice, seaweed, egg, a meat of some kind (though also without), possibly cheese, and vegetables.
3. 떡볶이 (Tteok-boki): The first time I tried this was my second day in Korea. I had spent the day terrified that I wouldn’t make any friends, and by some weird twist of events I wound up being an actor in an ad for an Airbnb in Gangnam. Some international students from Yonsei and I basically got paid to eat and play a board game! They ordered a couple different variations of tteok-bokki and it was honestly so yummy. As stir-fried rice cakes they have a pretty chewy texture, and be warned that they can be really filling.
4. 불고기 (Bulgogi): Believe it or not, the first time I tried bulgogi was at Burger King, where they had a burger made out of it. Bulgogi is marinated slices of beef or pork that usually has a sweet taste. The bulgogi pictured here was bomb but also one of the most expensive dinners I had while in Korea.
5. Jjajangmyeon: I kick myself over this one because I really waited till near the end of my time in Korea to finally try it. Please don’t make the same mistake and be sure to try it as soon as you arrive! This dish comprised of noodles and blackbean paste is a staple, and can be found at a lot of restaurants. Let me just say I was never disappointed.
6. 산낙지 (Sannakji): By far one of the crazier things I’ve eaten, but it’s definitely worth trying! This is octopus sashimi that is still moving when you eat it. It’s important to remember to keep chewing!
7. 김밥 (Kimbap): This is basically a Korean twist on sushi. If you’re vegetarian or don’t eat pork be mindful as they typically come with ham, even if advertised as vegetarian.
8. Duck Soup: Gwangju is famous for this dish. Be forewarned that it can be quite laborious, but it was definitely a cool experience.
9. 두부 김치 (Tofu kimchi): You’ll find kimchi everywhere in Korea, as most restaurants serve it complimentary. Eating with tofu, however, was not on my original itinerary. Nonetheless, it was scrumptious! I also loved having a hot kimchi stew (김치찌개), especially once it got colder in December.
10. Mandu: My go-to food throughout my time in Korea! You can’t go wrong with dumplings especially when there are so many different kinds to try!