Must-Try Korean Food Experiences for Every Tourist

Food is at the heart of Korean culture, making culinary exploration one of the most unforgettable parts of any trip to Korea. Whether you're sampling street snacks in Myeongdong or enjoying a traditional hanjeongsik in Gyeongju, Korean cuisine offers an immersive way to experience the country's heritage, hospitality, and everyday life.

Kick Off with Korean Barbecue (Samgyeopsal)

No visit to Korea is complete without gathering around a grill for samgyeopsal—thick slices of pork belly cooked right at your table. Wrap the sizzling meat in crisp lettuce with garlic, kimchi, and a dab of sesame oil with salt. It’s a deliciously social meal best enjoyed at a local favorite restaurant. Ask your tour guide to steer you away from tourist spots and into neighborhoods where locals eat.

Discover the Depth of Kimchi

Kimchi isn’t just a side dish—it’s a symbol of Korean identity. Made from fermented cabbage, radish, or cucumber with chili and garlic, kimchi accompanies nearly every Korean meal. For a deeper appreciation, join a kimchi-making workshop to learn regional styles and traditional preparation techniques that have been passed down for generations.

Experience a Traditional Korean Table (Hanjeongsik)

A hanjeongsik meal is a feast for both the senses and the soul. This full-course spread includes rice, soup, grilled or braised proteins, seasonal namul (vegetables), and an array of banchan (side dishes). Many most exciting Korea tours include stops at hanok-style restaurants, where you dine seated on floor cushions in serene, heritage-rich settings.

Dive Into Korea’s Street Food Scene

Markets like Gwangjang in Seoul or Seomun in Daegu are a paradise for street food lovers. Must-try snacks include:

• Tteokbokki – chewy rice cakes in spicy red sauce

• Hotteok – sweet pancakes filled with brown sugar and nuts

• Mandu – steamed or fried dumplings

• Mayak Gimbap – mini rice rolls packed with flavor

Grab a few bites and watch the bustle of local life unfold around you.

Savor Regional Delicacies Across Korea

Each region of Korea boasts its own culinary stars:

• Jeonju – home of the original bibimbap, a colorful bowl of mixed rice and vegetables

• Busan – famous for fresh seafood, including grilled eel and raw fish platters

• Andong – known for jjimdak, a hearty braised chicken stew

• Jeju Island – offers black pork and nourishing abalone porridge

If you're planning a multi-city itinerary, ask your Korea tour provider to include food-tasting experiences that highlight local specialties.

Relax in a Traditional Tea House

After a flavorful day, unwind the Korean way—with a cup of traditional tea. Head to Insadong or Bukchon Hanok Village, where peaceful tea houses serve omija (five-flavor berry), green plum, or ginseng tea in a calming, cultural setting.