Gourmet Bites: A journey through the flavours of Korean street food

Korean street food is a wild ride of bold flavours, quick bites and mind-blowing variety that will leave you craving for more. From the neon-lit streets of Seoul to the hidden gems of smaller towns, the variety and quality of street food in Korea are unparalleled. In fact, there’s so much to explore that one could eat their way around Korea without repeating a dish.

Known for its fast preparation, affordability and mouthwatering taste, Korean street food is a must-try for any foodie. So, get ready for a flavour explosion!

The street food culture in Korea

Korean street food has a long and evolving history. What started as an accessible way to grab a quick bite during Korea’s rapid industrialisation in the 20th century has now become a beloved part of daily life. Today, it’s not just about convenience — it’s about experiencing authentic, bold flavours that reflect Korea’s traditions and modern tastes.

Food trucks, food bikes and small tents called pojangmacha now line the streets of Korea, creating a bustling food scene. Famous street food markets like Busan’s Gwangbokdong Food Street, Namdaemun Market, Seoul’s Myeong-dong Market and Jeonju Hanok Village are popular destinations where locals and tourists alike come to savour scrumptious Korean street food. The atmosphere at these markets is lively, offering a sensory feast of sizzling sounds, enticing aromas and vibrant colours.

How does Korean street food fit into daily life?

For busy office workers, students and travellers, it offers the perfect solution for a quick, delicious meal on the go. Vendors can be found on nearly every corner, and the food is freshly prepared and served fast. Whether you’re craving something spicy, sweet or savoury, there’s always a dish to satisfy your taste buds.

Popular Korean street food dishes

Tteokbokki

You probably know this one from K-dramas. Yes, we’re talking about the ever-delicious Tteokbokki. Known for its fiery red sauce and chewy rice cakes, this dish originated in royal courts centuries ago but became a street food staple in the mid-1900s. It consists of soft, cylindrical rice cakes stir-fried in a spicy-sweet sauce made from gochujang (Korean red chilli paste), garlic and sugar.

Twigim

Twigim or Korean tempura is a variety of battered and deep-fried foods. Boiled eggs, veggies and prawns are commonly used in Twigim preparation. These crispy treats are served with tteokbokki sauce for dipping, creating a delightful fusion of flavours and textures. Street markets are not complete without Twigim stalls, so if you want a crunchy delight to devour, go for Twigim.

Hotteok

Looking for a warm, comforting dish to savour on a chilly winter day? Try Korea’s winter favourite, Hotteok. These sweet, stuffed pancakes are made from simple dough filled with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon and chopped nuts or seeds. When cooked on a hot griddle, the sugar filling melts into gooey caramel, creating a warm and delicious snack. Hotteok has its roots in Chinese cuisine but has been adapted to suit Korean tastes.

Gimbap

Gimbap, often pronounced as "Kimbap," is Korea’s answer to sushi! It consists of steamed rice, vegetables and proteins like beef, eggs or fish, all rolled up in a sheet of roasted seaweed (gim). The rolls are sliced into bite-sized pieces and often served with pickled radish on the side. Light, healthy and incredibly versatile, Gimbap is a popular grab-and-go meal, particularly for outings and picnics.

Eumok

Fish cakes, made from minced fish mixed with flour and seasonings, are skewered and simmered in a light broth flavoured with soy sauce, seaweed and green onions. Of course, we’re talking about Korea’s classic street food, Eumok. Often served hot with a small cup of savoury broth to sip on the side, Eumok is a go-to snack for warming up while exploring Korea’s street markets.

Which of these Korean street food dishes would you like to try? Let us know in the comments!