South Korea, a country where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with futuristic innovations, is also a paradise for food lovers. The bustling streets of Seoul, in particular, are a culinary mosaic, offering a plethora of dishes that are as vibrant in flavour as they are in history. From sizzling barbecues to comforting soups, each Korean dish tells a story of the land’s rich culture and the meticulous care that goes into its preparation.
Here, with the help of tailormade tour operators TransIndus, we explore 9 iconic South Korean dishes and the best spots in Seoul to try them.
Kongguksu (Chilled Soybean Milk Soup) – Jinju Jip
Kongguksu is a staple in Korean households, a chilled, delicate stew made with soybean milk and kimchi, poured over wheat noodles, and served with a variety of seasonings. It’s a dish that cools you from the inside out, perfect for Seoul’s balmy summers.
For an authentic taste of this elegant dish, head to Namdaemun Market’s Jinju Jip. This establishment has been perfecting its recipe for decades, offering a jjigae with a depth of flavour that is both nutty and creamy, with a rich umami backdrop. A quartered, hard boiled egg is pretty much obligatory.
Address: 34-13 Namchang-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul
Bulgogi (Marinated Beef BBQ) – Bulgogi Brothers
Bulgogi, which literally means ‘fire meat’, is a marinated beef delight that’s grilled to perfection. The meat is usually marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and pepper, creating a harmonious blend of sweet and savoury.
Bulgogi Brothers is a popular restaurant known for its high-quality meat and traditional cooking methods. Their bulgogi is grilled at your table, ensuring every bite is as fresh as it can be
Address: 136 Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul (There is a second branch south of the Han River).
Bibimbap (Mixed Rice) – Gogung
Bibimbap is a visually stunning dish consisting of crisp, coated rice topped with an array of vegetables, beef, a whole egg, and gochujang (chilli pepper paste). The ingredients are stirred together just before eating, creating a delightful mix of flavours and textures.
Gogung, located in the heart of Myeongdong, serves up a version of bibimbap that’s both traditional and delicious, using fresh, seasonal ingredients, though do please be aware that the restaurant is currently closed.
Address: 12-14, Chungmuro 2-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul
Jokbal (Braised Pig’s Feet) – Manjok Ohyang Jokbal
Braised pig’s feet (jokbal) is another BBQ favourite. It’s typically served in thick, juicy slices that diners cook themselves at the table.
Manjok Ohyang Jokbal is a renowned spot for this particular dish.. The meat here is of premium quality, and the side dishes (banchan) that accompany it are equally impressive.
Address: 134-7 Seosomun-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Read: 7 tips on preparing for your trip to Seoul
Japchae (Stir-fried Glass Noodles) – Japchae Bangsan Market
Japchae is a dish of stir-fried sweet potato noodles mixed with vegetables, soy sauce, and a touch of sugar. It’s often garnished with sesame seeds and slivers of beef. For a truly authentic japchae experience, visit the food stalls at Bangsan Market, a place primarily focused on wholesale wrapping paper purveyors, but also somewhere you’ll find a cracking japchae or two. Here, the dish is prepared with a home-cooked feel, and the flavours are traditional and rich.
Address: 20 Dongho-ro 37-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes) – Sindang-dong Tteokbokki Town
Tteokbokki, a popular street food, consists of chewy rice cakes slathered in a spicy, sweet sauce. For the best tteokbokki in Seoul, make your way to Sindang-dong Tteokbokki Town, where rows of eateries serve this dish as the star, each with their own secret recipe. Well, it would be rude not to sample several, then!
Address: 10-18 Dasan-ro 33-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
Haemul Pajeon (Seafood Pancake) – Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market
Haemul Pajeon is a savoury pancake filled with a variety of seafood and spring onions. For the freshest seafood pancake in town, visit the Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market. Here, you can select your own seafood and have it cooked into a pajeon on the spot. The result is a crispy, flavourful pancake that’s hard to beat.
Address: 674 Nodeul-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul
Sundubu-jjigae (Soft Tofu Stew) – Bukchangdong Soondubu
Sundubu-jjigae is a hot and spicy stew made with uncurdled tofu, vegetables, sometimes meat, and gochujang (chilli paste) or gochugaru (chilli powder). Bukchangdong Soondubu is a chain that specialises in tofu dishes, and their sundubu-jjigae is creamy, spicy, and utterly comforting. Just make sure you’re not in your favourite white shirt for this one; things can get messy where sundubu-jiggae is concerned!
Address: Multiple locations across Seoul
Korean Fried Chicken – Kyochon Chicken
No list of Korean dishes would be complete without mentioning Korean Fried Chicken. This dish is known for its incredibly crispy skin and tender meat. Kyochon Chicken is one of the most famous chains in South Korea for fried chicken, offering a variety of flavours ranging from soy garlic to spicy red.
Closer to home, if you’ve got some crispy cravings cutting in right now, then check out our guide on where to eat fried chicken in London.
Address: Multiple locations across Seoul
The Bottom Line
Seoul’s food scene is as dynamic as its skyline, with each dish offering a taste of the country’s soul. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveller, these nine iconic dishes are a must-try, and the places listed here are the perfect starting points for your culinary adventure in the heart of South Korea. Happy eating!