If you’re planning a trip to Seoul, then you’re in for a treat! The city is renowned for its tasty street foods in Seoul, with an array of flavors and textures to tantalize your taste buds.
From savory pancakes to sizzling skewered meats, the streets of Seoul are a haven for foodies. To help you start your gastronomic journey, here is a list of delicious street foods in Seoul you have to eat.
Seoul is an incredible city filled with energy, nightlife, and of course, street food. Whether you’re a first-time or seasoned visitor, there’s no better way to explore Seoul than on a street food crawl!
From hotteok (sweet pancakes) to gyeranppang (egg bread), the streets of Seoul are filled with delicious snacks and treats waiting to be discovered.
So grab a group of friends and embark on a tasty adventure with this guide to street foods in Seoul.
1. Soondae
Soondae is a Korean dish made of pig’s intestines stuffed with various ingredients such as pork blood, rice, vegetables, and glass noodles.
It is a popular street food in Seoul and is often served with hot mustard and chili sauce. Soondae has a chewy texture and savory flavor, making it one of the must-try street foods in Seoul. Give it a try and see if you like it!
2. Tteokbokki
Tteokbokki, a type of Korean street food, is one of the most popular snacks in Seoul. It’s a spicy and savory dish made with chewy rice cakes and a rich, gochujang-based sauce.
Toppings such as fish cakes, ramen noodles, and even hard-boiled eggs can be added for extra flavor.
It’s often served at food stalls and street markets, so be sure to add it to your list of must-try street foods in Seoul.
3. Sundae
Sundae, or Korean sausage, is one of the most popular street foods in Seoul. It is made with a combination of pig’s blood, sweet rice, and vegetables, all mixed together and stuffed into a natural casing.
Sundae is usually served in a boiled or steamed form, with various sides like kimchi and dipping sauces.
This flavorful and savory dish is great for those who love bold flavors and have a taste for adventure!
4. Hoddeok
Hoddeok (or hodduk, hoddok, or hotteok) is a delicious Korean street food made of sweet pancakes filled with a combination of sugar, cinnamon, and nuts.
It is typically cooked on a hot griddle and served warm. This popular street food in Seoul is a must-try when visiting Korea, as it is one of the most iconic snacks in the city.
The soft and gooey dough, complemented by the warm and sweet filling, is a delightful combination that will bring you back for more!
5. Mayak Gimbap
Mayak Gimbap is one of the most popular street foods in Seoul. It consists of boiled rice, pickled radish, egg, and various other ingredients, all wrapped up in dried seaweed.
This tasty snack is perfect for those on the go – it’s quick and easy to eat and requires no utensils.
The Mayak gimbap has a delicious flavor that satisfies your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a light snack or a full meal, this Korean street food is an excellent choice!
6. Fried Chicken
If you’re looking for one of the classic street foods in Seoul, then fried chicken is an absolute must. Fried chicken has become a Korean favorite over the years, and Seoul is home to some of the best.
Whether you go for the classic soy-garlic or opt for spicy and sweet, you won’t be disappointed.
Look out for the famous fried chicken chains, including Kyochon Chicken and Bonchon Chicken, or try a street cart to find out what the locals are eating. Bon appetit!
7. Twigim
One of the most popular street foods in Seoul is twigim, also known as fried vegetables.
This classic Korean snack is made with various vegetables, including potatoes, peppers, onions, and mushrooms.
The vegetables are lightly battered and then deep-fried to a crisp golden brown. It’s usually served with soy sauce and ketchup for dipping.
Twigim is an ideal snack for sharing with friends or if you’re looking for something to munch on while exploring the city. While it may not be the healthiest option, it certainly is delicious!
8. Bungeoppang
If you are looking for a snack while exploring the bustling streets of Seoul, look no further than Bungeoppang.
This popular street foods in Seoul, also known as fish-shaped bread, is a traditional Korean treat that is hard to resist.
Bungeoppang is made by pouring batter into fish-shaped waffle molds that are filled with red bean paste or custard.
Once the batter is cooked through, the fish-shaped bread is removed from the mold and then sprinkled with sugar and other toppings.
It’s the perfect combination of sweet and savory and an absolute must-try while in Seoul!
However, bungeoppang can be found throughout Seoul; one of the most popular places to grab this treat is Gwangjang Market.
The market has several stalls selling these delicious treats, and they always seem to be in high demand. So, if you’re lucky enough to make it there, be sure to snag one of these tasty treats before they’re all gone!
So if you’re ever in Seoul, don’t forget to try out some Bungeoppang. It’s a delicious snack that will definitely leave you wanting more!
9. Makgeolli
As street food in Seoul, Makgeolli is a traditional Korean rice wine that dates back centuries. It is made from a mixture of wheat and/or rice, nuruk (a fermenting agent), and water.
This light, slightly carbonated beverage has a milky white color, creamy texture, and sweet-tart flavor.
It’s a popular accompaniment to many dishes, but it’s also great to sip on its own. If you’re looking for a unique drink while exploring Seoul, make sure to try Makgeolli!
10. Beondegi
If you’re looking for an authentic Seoul experience, you can’t miss Beondegi. It is one of the traditional Korean street foods in Seoul, usually served as a snack or side dish, and consists of steamed or boiled silkworm pupae.
Beondegi is known for its crunchy texture and strong, nutty taste. Though it may sound unappetizing, beondegi is actually quite popular with locals and tourists alike.
To experience this unique dish for yourself, head to one of the many stalls scattered around the city that serve beondegi.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try the stewed version – a spicy, sweet, and savory combination that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds!!
11. Odeng
One of the most popular street foods in Seoul is odeng, and a fish cake skewer is often served in a light broth.
The broth can be either spicy or mild, and the fish cakes are usually made from a combination of cod, pollock, and other types of seafood.
Odeng can be found at almost any street food stand in Seoul, and it’s a great way to get your hands on some delicious Korean snacks. If you’re looking for a cheap, filling meal, odeng is a great option!
12. Mandu
Mandu, or Korean dumplings, are a common street food in Seoul. They come in both savory and sweet varieties and can be found in many places across the city.
Savory mandu typically consists of minced pork or beef filling, while sweet ones often contain red bean paste.
Mandu can be steamed, boiled, or pan-fried, and the flavor and texture of each variety differ greatly depending on the method used.
Steamed mandu are soft and slightly chewy, boiled are tender and juicy, and pan-fried are golden and crispy. You can also find dumplings stuffed with other fillings, such as kimchi and vegetables.
When you’re in Seoul, there are a few great places to try mandu. One popular spot is Gwangjang Market, where you can sample some of the best steamed and boiled dumplings in town.
Another great option is Namdaemun Market, where you can get delicious pan-fried dumplings. Finally, Myeongdong Kyoja offers various kinds of mandu, including kimchi dumplings and red bean paste dumplings.
No matter which version you try, mandu are a delicious snack that is perfect for a quick bite while exploring Seoul.
So next time you’re in the city, make sure to sample some of the local street foods in Seoul – including the ever-popular mandu!
13. Tornado Potato
Tornado Potato, one of the beloved street foods in Seoul, is sure to satisfy your cravings! It’s a spiral-cut potato on a stick that’s been deep-fried and coated in your choice of delicious toppings, like cheese, sour cream, and bacon.
The unique shape of the potato makes it a great snack for those on the go, and its irresistibly crispy texture will keep you coming back for more.
If you’re looking for a delicious way to explore the street food scene in Seoul, be sure to give Tornado Potato a try!
14. Tteok-Kkochi
For a true taste of Seoul, you can’t beat its traditional street foods. From savory snacks to sweet treats, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
One of the most popular street foods in Seoul is tteok-kkochi, a tasty snack made with skewered rice cakes. Tteok-kkochi is the perfect grab-and-go snack – it’s easy to eat while walking, and the sweet, chewy texture is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Small cubes of tteok, or Korean rice cakes, are skewered and grilled over hot coals to make this snack. The result is crunchy outside and chewy inside.
Some vendors also add other ingredients like vegetables or beef for a savory kick. They’re usually served with a spicy dipping sauce made from gochujang (Korean red pepper paste) and sesame oil, giving the dish an extra punch of flavor.
Tteok-kkochi is one of the must-try street foods in Seoul. The next time you’re out and about, check out one of the many street vendors serving this tasty treat.
15. Dakkochi
Dakkochi is one of the most beloved street foods in Seoul. It’s made of skewered chicken and vegetables, usually served with a sweet and spicy sauce.
Dakkochi has been around for centuries and is still a popular late-night snack today. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite before exploring the nightlife or want to enjoy a delicious snack on the go, Dakkochi is a must-try!
16. Bindaetteok
When visiting Korea, you should make it a point to enjoy some of the amazing street foods in Seoul that are available.
One of Seoul’s most popular street foods is bindaetteok – a savory mung bean pancake. Bindaetteok can be found all over the city and is often served as a snack or appetizer.
It’s made with ground mung beans and has a slightly crunchy exterior and a soft, creamy interior. The pancake is usually filled with diced vegetables such as scallions, kimchi, and mushrooms.
It is served with various dipping sauces, including soy sauce, chili sauce, and sesame oil. Delicious and easy to find, bindaetteok is a great way to experience the flavors of Seoul.
17. Garaetteok
If you’re looking for quintessential street foods in Seoul, look no further than garaetteok. This popular snack is made of milled rice, which is formed into a cylindrical shape and then deep-fried.
It’s typically served with a dipping sauce, like gochujang or doenjang, that adds flavor to the slightly sweet snack.
The crunchy exterior pairs perfectly with the fluffy interior, making this one of Seoul’s most beloved street foods.
Whether you’re exploring the streets of Insadong or Hongdae, you’re sure to find a garaetteok stand near you.
18. Sannakji
Sannakji is one of the popular street foods in Seoul that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. It consists of a live octopus that is cut into small pieces and served with sesame oil and spices.
The octopus is often still squirming on the plate when served, making it a unique experience for first-time eaters.
This dish is usually eaten while the octopus is still moving, though some diners opt to wait until the tentacles have settled before digging in.
For those brave enough to try it, Sannakji offers an unforgettable culinary adventure. Not only is it a tasty treat, but it can also be quite a spectacle as the tentacles writhe on your plate.
Whether you’re up for the challenge or just looking for a tasty bite, Sannakji is definitely worth it as one of the street foods in Seoul!
19. Eomuk Bokkeum
Eomuk Bokkeum is one of the best traditional Korean street foods in Seoul made with fish or squid that is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and other spices before being pan-fried.
The result is a crispy, flavorful treat that can be found at street vendors throughout Seoul. Whether you’re in the mood for a snack or looking for an easy dinner option, Eomuk Bokkeum is sure to hit the spot!
20. Hodu-Gwaja
When exploring the streets of Seoul, one cannot miss the vibrant array of street foods in Seoul.
From hodu-gwaja (walnut pastry) to tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), Seoul offers a delicious and unique street food experience that will tantalize your taste buds.
Let’s take a look at some of the most popular street foods in Seoul, starting with hodu-gwaja. Hodu-gwaja is a small pastry filled with walnuts, honey, cinnamon, and sugar.
It is lightly fried and served warm with a generous drizzle of sweet syrup on top. The combination of crunchy walnuts, fragrant spices, and sweet syrup makes this snack a favorite among both locals and visitors alike. It’s easy to find most street foods in Seoul, so be sure to try them during your visit!
21. Hotteok
Hotteok is one of the most popular street foods in Seoul, and it’s a must-have on any street food crawl.
Hotteok is a pancake-like pastry filled with sweet ingredients such as brown sugar, honey, chopped peanuts, and cinnamon.
The outside is made of wheat flour, while the inside is a mixture of grains and seeds. The best way to enjoy hotteok is to find a street vendor and order a freshly made one.
To ensure you get the freshest hotteok possible, it’s best to watch the vendor prepare your order.
The hotteok will be fried on a hot griddle and cooked until it is golden brown and crispy. After it’s cooked, it’ll be served with a generous helping of honey and ready to eat.
The combination of the crispy exterior and sweet interior makes hotteok one of the most popular street foods in Seoul.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable street food experience, then hotteok should definitely be on your list!
22. Gukhwa-Ppang
Gukhwa-ppang, a type of Korean pastry, is one of Seoul’s many delicious street foods.
This sweet treat consists of a light, fluffy dough made from wheat and rice flour, which is shaped into a flower and filled with red bean paste or sweet honey.
The dough is then deep-fried until golden brown and served hot. The result is a crispy pastry with a sweet and savory flavor that is sure to please any palate!
Gukhwa-ppang can be found at numerous street vendors throughout Seoul and is a must-try for those visiting the city.
23. Jeon
Jeon, a traditional Korean pancake, is one of the beloved street foods in Seoul. There are countless variations of this savory snack, from sweet to spicy, that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a meal. This guide will look at some of the best spots in Seoul to find jeon.
Korea House has been serving up jeon since 1982 and is widely considered one of the best spots in Seoul for savory pancakes.
They have a wide variety of jeon, including haemul (seafood), kimchi, and dak (chicken). Another great spot for jeon is the Myeongdong Kyoja.
This spot specializes in bindaetteok – mung bean pancake – which they serve with a special soy sauce-based dipping sauce.
The restaurant also serves other types of jeon, such as kimchi jeon and kimchijeon-guk (mung bean pancake soup).
Jaedong Wang Mandu in Hongdae is another popular spot for jeon. Their specialty is mandu-jeon – dumpling pancake – which comes with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, sesame oil, and gochujang (Korean red chili paste).
Finally, if you’re looking for a unique take on jeon, head to Jeonju Dosa for some fusion food. Here you can try the Jeonju-style dosa, which is an Indian-Korean fusion dish made with crispy rice flour pancakes filled with vegetables and meat.
If you’re looking to explore the world of jeon in Seoul, these are some of the best places to start! You’re sure to find something delicious, from traditional favorites to creative fusion dishes.
24. Chimaek
If you’re looking for a true taste of Seoul, there’s nothing like chimaek. Chimaek combines the words chicken and maekju, or beer, and it’s an iconic Korean street food.
The dish is a classic combination of fried chicken and beer, usually served with pickled radishes, garlic, and kimchi.
It’s popular throughout the city and a must-try street foods in Seoul for anyone who wants to experience a taste of Seoul.
25. Dakkochi
Dakkochi, or skewered chicken, is one of the most beloved street foods in Seoul. It’s a simple yet delicious dish consisting of tender chunks of marinated chicken that are grilled to perfection and served on a skewer.
Dakkochi is typically served with a sweet and spicy sauce, making it an unforgettable culinary experience.
Whether you’re strolling through one of Seoul’s bustling night markets or grabbing a quick snack while exploring the city, Dakkochi is a must-try. With its juicy flavor and unique texture, it’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning taste buds!
26. Tokkebi Hot Dogs
Tokkebi Hot Dogs are popular street foods in Seoul, South Korea. Made with pork and beef, these dogs are deep-fried and served with sweet and spicy sauces.
Tokkebi Hot Dogs can be found in street vendors, small restaurants, and night markets all over the city. For a truly authentic experience, grab some Tokkebi Hot Dogs while exploring the streets of Seoul. Bon Appetit!
27. HotteokJuk
Hotteok is a type of sweet pancake that is popularly sold as street foods in Seoul, South Korea. It is made with a yeast-risen dough filled with a mixture of sugar, cinnamon, and nuts. The pancake is cooked on a greased griddle until it turns golden brown and crispy.
Nevertheless, Hotteok is often served warm, and its sweet syrup-filled center is a delight to the taste buds.
Whether you’re looking for a snack while exploring Seoul or trying something new, Hotteok is definitely worth trying!
28. Jokbal
Jokbal is a traditional Korean dish that is often found served as street food in Seoul. Jokbal consists of pork feet that are boiled and served in a spicy sauce. It is usually served with some pickled radish, garlic, and green onion.
The flavor of jokbal is both sweet and savory, making it a perfect snack for those looking for a unique culinary experience in the streets of Seoul.
Whether you’re stopping by a small stand or enjoying it as part of a larger meal, you won’t regret trying out this delicious Korean street food.
29. Pajeon
If you’re in Seoul and looking for a taste of the city’s unique street food scene, look no further than pajeon.
Pajeon is a type of Korean pancake made with an egg-based batter and various vegetables, seafood, and meats, depending on the recipe.
Pajeon is one of the most popular street foods in Seoul and can be found in many places throughout the city.
It’s usually served with a soy sauce-based dipping sauce and can be eaten as a snack or as part of a larger meal.
If you want to get the most out of your pajeon experience, try to find a place that makes it fresh.
There are plenty of restaurants that specialize in pajeon, and they often serve a variety of different versions. Some restaurants may even offer special fillings like kimchi or cheese.
No matter where you find it, pajeon is surely an unforgettable part of street food in Seoul. So next time you’re in the city, don’t forget to try it!
30. Sikhye
One of the best ways to explore Seoul’s vibrant culture and its unique cuisine is to take a street food crawl.
From traditional Korean snacks to fusion dishes, there is a never-ending list of delicious treats to try when you’re exploring the city.
One of the most popular street foods in Seoul is sikhye, a sweet rice drink that has been enjoyed for centuries.
Sikhye is made with sweetened rice, malt barley, and ginger. The drink is served chilled and is often garnished with pine nuts or pine leaves.
It has a unique flavor that is both sweet and slightly sour, which makes it a refreshing beverage to enjoy on a hot summer day.
Sikhye can be found in almost any street food stand or restaurant in Seoul, as well as supermarkets and convenience stores throughout the city.
If you’re looking for something a bit more unique as street foods in Seoul, try out patbingsu. This traditional Korean shaved ice dessert is made with sweet red beans and topped with colorful fruits and condensed milk.
Patbingsu has become quite popular in recent years and can be found in almost every street food stand in Seoul.
So why not plan your next Seoul trip around a street food crawl? Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet like sikhye or patbingsu, or something savory like gimbap or tteokbokki, you’re sure to find something delicious on your next street foods in Seoul.
31. Juk
No visit to Korea would be complete without a trip through the city’s bustling street foods in Seoul scene.
While many of the Korean capital’s best eats can be found in its traditional restaurants, street food is still a popular way to grab a quick, cheap, and delicious meal.
One of the most beloved dishes available from street vendors is juk, a type of congee or rice porridge.
Juk is usually made with white rice, but some recipes will call for different grains like red beans, barley, or millet.
The finished dish is served hot and often topped with beef, vegetables, eggs, seaweed, and more. Depending on your preference, it can be made either thick or thin.
It’s usually eaten as breakfast or brunch and is considered a comfort food among locals. Juk is both comforting and delicious, so if you’re looking for a unique taste of Seoul, it’s definitely worth trying out!
Whether you prefer something savory or sweet, you’ll have no problem finding something that satisfies your palate.
32. Jajangmyeon
Jajangmyeon is one of the most popular street foods in Seoul. It’s a noodle dish topped with black bean sauce, pork, and other vegetables.
It’s a filling, savory dish that’s beloved by locals and tourists alike. The noodles are chewy, and the sauce is sweet and salty. This dish is a great way to experience Korean flavors without breaking the bank.
The dish is traditionally served with diced cucumbers, chopped green onions, and ground white pepper for extra flavor.
Jajangmyeon can be eaten on its own or as part of a larger meal. It’s also great for lunch or dinner and can be found at most street food vendors in Seoul.
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a hearty meal, Jajangmyeon is a delicious way to experience authentic street foods in Seoul. So the next time you’re in Seoul, why not try it?
33. Gimbap
Gimbap is one of the popular Korean street foods in Seoul. It comprises boiled white rice, seaweed, and various other fillings such as carrots, eggs, ham, and pickled radish.
Gimbap is usually served with various sauces, such as sesame oil, soy sauce, and hot pepper paste.
Gimbap can be found at most street stalls in Seoul, and it’s an easy and affordable snack that will satisfy your craving for something delicious!
34. Korean Ice Cream
Korean ice cream is a must-try for anyone exploring street foods in Seoul. From bingsu to sundaes, Korean ice cream’s unique flavors and textures will leave you wanting more.
Whether you opt for a light, refreshing sorbet or a creamy, dreamy treat, there are plenty of choices to choose from.
Try classic favorites like green tea ice cream or get adventurous with flavors like sweet potato and black sesame. When it comes to Korean ice cream, the possibilities are endless!
35. Patbingsu
If you’re looking for the quintessential street foods in Seoul experience, you must try patbingsu.
This traditional Korean shaved ice dessert is a popular summer treat that can be found all over the city.
Patbingsu consists of sweetened red beans and chewy tteok (rice cakes) on top of a bed of shaved ice and is usually topped with whipped cream, condensed milk, fruits, nuts, and other ingredients.
The flavors can vary depending on the vendor, so don’t be afraid to sample a few different versions to find your favorite!
36. Fruit Juice
Fruit juice is a great way to cool down and quench your thirst while exploring the bustling street foods in Seoul.
There is something for everyone, from refreshing watermelon juice to deliciously tart citrus juices. Here are some of the most popular fruit juice street foods in Seoul:
37. Watermelon Juice
This classic drink is made with fresh watermelon, honey, and ice. It’s sweet, refreshing, and the perfect summer treat as street food in Seoul.
38. Korean Citron Tea
Korean citron tea is a tart citrus drink that is usually served in a glass bottle. It’s made with boiled citron, honey, and cold water. It has a strong flavor and can be quite refreshing as street foods in Seoul.
39. Kiwi Juice
One of the popular street foods in Seoul is kiwi juice. It’s made with freshly juiced kiwis, honey, and ice. The combination of tart and sweet makes it a delicious way to cool down.
40. Orange Juice
Another classic street foods in Seoul is freshly squeezed orange juice. It’s made with freshly squeezed oranges, honey, and ice. The sweetness and tartness of this drink make it perfect for a hot summer day.
41. Pineapple Juice
This sweet drink is made with freshly juiced pineapple and honey. It’s a great way to get your daily dose of vitamin C while enjoying street foods in Seoul.
These are just a few of the popular fruit juices found on the streets of Seoul. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing beverage or something to quench your thirst, there is sure to be something for everyone in Seoul.
Conclusion
Street foods in Seoul are a perfect way to experience the city’s vibrant culinary culture. From savory kimbap to sweet bingsu, there’s something for everyone on the streets of Seoul.
Whether you’re looking for a quick snack on the go or a meal that’s sure to satisfy you, a street food crawl in Seoul will surely not disappoint.
From traditional favorites to creative new takes, you’ll surely find something that tickles your taste buds and leaves you wanting more.
So the next time you’re in Seoul, don’t forget to explore the street foods in Seoul offerings – you won’t regret it!
