Top 10 Korean Foods You Must Try When Traveling in Korea
When you visit Korea, the journey is never complete without tasting its soul foods.
These dishes are not just about flavor but carry history, culture, and comfort within every bite.
From rainy-day favorites to festival delicacies, Korean soul food reflects the everyday lives and traditions of the people.
Travelers who want to experience Korea like a local should not miss these authentic plates.
Here are ten must-try Korean local and soul foods that will make your trip unforgettable.
1. Kalguksu – Handmade Noodle Soup
Kalguksu is a simple yet comforting dish made with hand-cut wheat noodles.
Its clear broth, usually made from anchovy or chicken, gives a refreshing flavor that warms the body.
The chewy texture of the noodles contrasts beautifully with the light soup.
Kalguksu is especially popular on rainy days or during the monsoon season.
It is often paired with kimchi for a perfectly balanced meal.
The dish represents the Korean way of finding comfort in food during gloomy weather.
Many small local shops specialize in Kalguksu, making it a truly homestyle dish.
Eating a bowl feels like receiving a warm hug from Korean tradition.
2. Sundae Gukbap – Blood Sausage Soup with Rice
Sundae Gukbap is beloved by locals for its hearty taste and affordability.
The soup is made with pork bone broth, rich in flavor and nutrition.
Slices of Korean blood sausage, called “Sundae,” along with pork intestines are added to create a deep taste.
It is a dish often enjoyed by workers and students as a filling everyday meal.
Adding perilla seeds or salted shrimp enhances the flavor.
Many Koreans remember this food as part of their hometown experience.
It is not glamorous but represents the true essence of Korean comfort dining.
Trying Sundae Gukbap will let you taste Korea’s working-class soul food culture.
3. Samgyetang – Ginseng Chicken Soup
Samgyetang is one of Korea’s most famous health foods.
It is a whole young chicken stuffed with rice, garlic, ginseng, jujube, and chestnuts.
The soup is enjoyed especially during the hottest summer days, known as “Boknal.”
The belief is that eating hot food in summer restores energy and balances the body.
Its mild yet rich flavor makes it suitable for foreigners as well.
Samgyetang also symbolizes care, as many families prepare it for loved ones.
Restaurants across Korea serve it in traditional stone pots, keeping it hot until the last sip.
It is both a culinary and cultural experience every traveler should try.
4. Jeon – Korean Pancakes
Jeon refers to a variety of savory pancakes made with seafood, vegetables, or kimchi.
They are pan-fried until golden and crispy on the outside, soft on the inside.
Jeon is often enjoyed with Makgeolli (Korean rice wine) on rainy days.
Families gather during holidays such as Chuseok or Lunar New Year to cook Jeon together.
Popular types include Kimchi Jeon, Pajeon (green onion pancake), and Haemul Jeon (seafood pancake).
The sound of sizzling oil and the aroma instantly create nostalgia for Koreans.
Jeon is more than food; it represents togetherness and celebration.
For visitors, it offers a delicious way to experience Korean family traditions.
5. Galbijjim – Korean Braised Short Ribs
Galbijjim is one of the most beloved Korean celebratory dishes.
It is made by braising beef short ribs with soy sauce, garlic, sugar, and sesame oil.
Carrots, radish, potatoes, and glass noodles are often added for extra flavor and texture.
The dish has a rich, slightly sweet, and savory taste that appeals to everyone.
Galbijjim is usually prepared for special occasions such as holidays, birthdays, or family gatherings.
Because it takes time and effort to cook, it represents care and generosity.
For travelers, tasting Galbijjim is a way to experience Korean home-style comfort food at its best.
It is not only delicious but also shows the warm hospitality of Korean dining culture.
6. Seolleongtang – Ox Bone Soup
Seolleongtang is a milky, white soup made by simmering beef bones for hours.
The broth is rich yet mild, perfect for people of all ages.
Thin slices of beef and soft noodles are added to complete the dish.
It is often seasoned at the table with salt, pepper, or chopped green onions.
Seolleongtang is valued as a nutritious and economical meal.
It is believed to date back to royal times, feeding large crowds with one big pot.
Even today, it is a staple in many Korean households.
This dish demonstrates Korea’s tradition of slow cooking and patience.
7. Ganjang Gejang – Soy Sauce Marinated Crab
Ganjang Gejang is called “the rice thief” in Korea because it makes people eat more rice.
Fresh raw crab is marinated in soy sauce, garlic, and spices.
The sweet and salty flavor is deeply satisfying.
It is one of the foods Koreans miss the most when living abroad.
Eating it can be a bit challenging for beginners, but the reward is worth it.
Many restaurants serve it with unlimited rice because of its addictive taste.
The dish is a unique example of Korea’s seafood culture.
It is a must-try for adventurous food travelers.
8. Jjimdak – Braised Chicken with Vegetables
Originating from Andong, Jjimdak has become popular nationwide.
It is made with chicken, soy sauce, glass noodles, and vegetables.
The sauce is savory, slightly sweet, and mildly spicy.
It goes perfectly with a bowl of steamed rice.
Jjimdak is often shared in large portions, making it ideal for groups.
It shows how Korean food emphasizes sharing and togetherness.
Each bite delivers layers of flavor from the sauce and tender chicken.
It is the kind of dish that quickly turns into a favorite for travelers.
9. Haejangguk – Hangover Soup
Haejangguk literally means “soup to cure a hangover.”
It is essential for many Koreans after a night of drinking.
Varieties include bean sprout soup, ox blood soup, and pork spine soup.
The hot, spicy broth helps clear the stomach and refresh the body.
This tradition highlights Korea’s vibrant nightlife culture.
Even non-drinkers enjoy Haejangguk for its hearty taste.
Each region has its own version, adding diversity to the dish.
For travelers, it is a fascinating window into Korean daily life.
10. Naengmyeon – Cold Buckwheat Noodles
Naengmyeon is the perfect dish for hot summer days.
Thin buckwheat noodles are served in icy broth or with spicy sauce.
The texture is chewy, and the taste is refreshing.
Traditionally, Naengmyeon was eaten in winter, but today it is a summer favorite.
Two popular styles are Mul Naengmyeon (cold broth) and Bibim Naengmyeon (spicy).
Slices of pear, cucumber, and boiled egg make it more flavorful.
The dish represents Korea’s creativity in making seasonal foods.
It is light yet memorable, leaving travelers refreshed after a long day.
Conclusion
Korean local and soul foods are more than just meals.
They are stories of family, tradition, and the seasons of life.
Each dish connects you to the everyday experiences of Korean people.
From comforting soups to celebratory barbecues, the flavors capture Korea’s warm spirit.
As a traveler, tasting these foods will bring you closer to the heart of Korean culture.
Do not leave Korea without trying at least a few of these treasures.
Key Takeaways
- Kalguksu and Jeon are perfect for rainy days.
- Sundae Gukbap, Seolleongtang, and Haejangguk show Korea’s comfort food culture.
- Samgyetang and Galbi symbolize health and celebration.
- Ganjang Gejang and Jjimdak highlight unique flavors worth exploring.
- Naengmyeon is the ultimate summer dish.
