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What makes Korean cuisine so unique and renowned worldwide? Let's explore the delicious specialties of Korea that you shouldn't miss when visiting the Land of Ginseng.
Planning a trip to South Korea? Wondering what souvenirs to buy? Which dishes carry the authentic flavors of Korea? If you're still pondering over food choices for your Korean adventure, then this article is tailor-made for you. Whether it's quirky street food or traditional dishes bursting with flavor, it's sure to tantalize the taste buds of food enthusiasts. Join Klook as we embark on a culinary journey across Korea to discover its gastronomic delights!
Oh, and if you're traveling with friends or family, don't forget to rent a private car for convenient transportation and dining experiences!
1. Korean Kimchi
Kimchi is undoubtedly a familiar dish to many. However, skipping kimchi in the land of kimchi would be a grave mistake. There are numerous varieties of kimchi, from cabbage kimchi, green onion kimchi, cucumber kimchi to radish kimchi. Sampling these dishes right in their place of origin enhances their unique and delicious flavors tenfold.
Indulge in the fiery sensation of Korean Sundubu Jjigae - Spicy Tofu Stew.
Korean cuisine boasts a plethora of spicy and aromatic delights. Sundubu jjigae, a spicy tofu stew, embodies the distinct fiery flavors of the nation. Savoring a steaming bowl of sundubu jjigae on chilly days fills one with sheer culinary bliss.
Experience the delectable fusion of flavors with Mandu Kimchi - Korean Kimchi Dumplings.
Despite its name, Mandu Kimchi is actually a renowned dumpling variety in the land of kimchi. Encased in a soft, chewy exterior lies savory meat and flavorful vegetables. Whether fried with chili sauce or steamed, each bite offers a burst of deliciousness.
Satisfy your cravings with the spicy kick of Korean Stir-Fried Octopus - Nakji Bokkeum.
Nakji Bokkeum, or spicy stir-fried octopus, has been a long-standing delicacy in Korea, originating from a tavern in 1965. Its exceptional taste has kept it in high demand till today, making it a sought-after dish.
Delicious and Irresistible Traditional Korean Soup Specialties
Soup is an essential dish in Korean traditional meals. There are countless varieties of soup in Korea, but not everyone knows which soups are the ultimate 'must try' in this land of kimchi! Let's explore some of the most famous soups in the land of kimchi with Klook!
8. Beef Soup - Seolleongtang
Seolleongtang beef soup is essentially a variation of beef noodle soup. Beef bones are simmered thoroughly to create a delicious broth served with white noodles, beef, and other special spices. Visiting the land of kimchi and missing out on this soup would be a mistake.
9. Bean Sprout Soup - Kongnamul Gukbap
Kongnamul Gukbap bean sprout soup is a very famous dish in Korea. The ingredients of this dish are very simple, consisting of bean sprouts and two eggs, but the refreshing taste will make you remember it forever once you've tried it.
10. Seaweed Dragon Soup - Momguk
Momguk Seaweed Soup may not catch the eye like many other dishes due to its characteristic dark green color of seaweed. However, with the harmonious blend of ingredients such as pork, seaweed, vegetables, and the absence of spices, this seaweed soup will awaken your taste buds.
Did you know: seaweed soup is a Korean specialty often eaten on birthdays, symbolizing luck and longevity.
11. Soybean Paste Stew - Doenjang Jjigae
As the most famous stew in Korea, soybean paste stew appears in the daily meals of the people here. Enjoying a bowl of soybean paste stew with friends and family on a chilly day truly warms the heart, doesn't it?
12. Braised Potato Soup - Gamjatang
Miến trộn, a familiar dish, right #teamKlook! But miến trộn japchae brings a unique flavor, so if you're in Jeju, don't miss out!
16. Black Bean Noodles Jajangmyeon
Not sure what to eat, try black bean noodles! With its unique color and distinct flavor, this dish attracts many food enthusiasts both locally and internationally. The savory-sweet taste of this Korean specialty is loved by many young #teamKlook members. This Korean dish originates from China so you can find it in many Korean-style Chinese restaurants.
17. Grilled Gochang Intestines
Among a variety of grilled dishes, grilled gobchang intestines have a unique taste that cannot be mistaken. Enjoying it with a glass of soju and chatting with friends is simply delightful!
18. Korean Soy Sauce Marinated Crab
Indulge in the exquisite flavors of marinated crab in soy sauce, a dish that captivates despite its initial intimidation. Fresh live crab, untouched by any cooking process, may seem daunting at first but proves irresistible once tasted. Alongside soy sauce marinated crab and soy sauce marinated clams, consider exploring the tantalizing options of soy sauce marinated salmon or soy sauce marinated century eggs.
19. Korean Grilled Meat - Samgyeopsal
A trip to Korea without savoring Samgyeopsal, Korean grilled meat, is incomplete. What makes this dish exceptional is the direct grilling of meat without any marination, served with a distinctive dipping sauce. The sweet aroma of grilled meat combined with the spicy kick of the sauce is truly heavenly.
20. Korean Seafood Pancake - Haemul Pajeon
Dubbed the 'pizza of the land of kimchi,' seafood pancake is a culinary delight enjoyed by all, from children to the elderly. Crispy, spicy, and fresh, it's definitely worth a try. The sensation of biting into the crispy pancake paired with sweet and sour dipping sauce is a truly delightful gastronomic experience.
21. Korean Jokbal
Indulge in the savory delight of Jokbal, a traditional Korean culinary icon. Its unique fusion of crispy pork skin and succulent meat creates a culinary experience like no other.
The pork is simmered to perfection, then seasoned with soy sauce, garlic, chili, and other spices, crafting a distinctive flavor profile. Enjoying Jokbal not only tantalizes the taste buds but also immerses you in the vibrant culinary culture of the land of kimchi.
Paired with fresh greens, pickled garlic, and sticky rice, Jokbal transforms into a mouthwatering dish brimming with the essence of Korean cuisine. Each bite tells a tale of rich cultural heritage, offering more than just flavor but also a journey through this nation's unique traditions.
23. Korean Fried Chicken
No trip to Korea is complete without savoring Korean fried chicken. While not its birthplace, Korea's culinary style has infused new life into this beloved dish. Korean fried chicken is often accompanied by a variety of creative sauces, blending salty, sweet, and spicy flavors. Additionally, you can also relish the delightful crispy chicken stir-fried with a twist.
Must-Buy Korean Specialties for Souvenirs
Every time you go on a trip, #teamKlook faces the dilemma of what to buy as gifts, especially food. Don't worry, Klook is here to provide you with some useful suggestions!
24. Thanh Yen Tea
As a popular and widely beloved beverage in Korea, Thanh Yen tea is definitely a gift you should consider. Packaged in adorable glass jars, transportation won't be an issue when gifting to your loved ones.
25. Korean Seaweed
When talking about Korea, seaweed inevitably comes to mind. While seaweed is readily available in Vietnam, purchasing local varieties or directly from seaweed farms can make for a meaningful gift.
26. Korean Snacks and Sweets
