If you're planning a trip to South Korea or just curious about Korean cuisine, one thing you absolutely shouldn't miss is Korean street food. I literally came back to Korea for these food! It's cheap, delicious, and full of unique flavors you won’t find anywhere else. From crispy Hotteok in the winter to spicy Tteokbokki year-round, Korean street food is a cultural experience on its own.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through:
- ✅ Must-try Korean street foods
- ✅ Where to find the best street food in Korea
- ✅ How much it costs
- ✅ Street food etiquette and local tips
Let’s get started!
What is Korean Street Food?
Korean street food refers to the wide variety of inexpensive dishes sold by vendors on sidewalks, in traditional markets, or near subway stations. These foods are loved by locals and tourists alike. They're often served fast, eaten on the go, and packed with bold Korean flavors—spicy, sweet, savory, and umami.
Top 10 Must-Try Korean Street Foods
Here are the most popular and beloved street foods you’ll find all over Korea:
1. Tteokbokki (떡볶이)
Spicy, chewy rice cakes simmered in a gochujang-based sauce. Often topped with fish cakes (Eomuk), boiled eggs, or cheese. A staple of Korean street food.
💸 Price: 3,000–5,000 KRW
2. Hotteok (호떡)
A warm, sweet pancake filled with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts. Especially popular during winter.
💸 Price: 1,000–2,000 KRW
3. Eomuk / Odeng (어묵)
Fish cakes served on skewers in hot broth. You can drink the broth for free!
💸 Price: 500–1,500 KRW
4. Kimbap (김밥)
Rice and vegetables rolled in seaweed. It’s like sushi, but more casual and often vegetarian.
💸 Price: 2,000–4,000 KRW
5. Sundae (순대)
A Korean blood sausage made with pig's intestine and glass noodles. Often served with salt or Tteokbokki sauce.
💸 Price: 4,000–6,000 KRW
6. Dak-kkochi (닭꼬치)
Grilled chicken skewers glazed in sweet or spicy sauce.
💸 Price: 2,000–3,500 KRW
7. Bungeoppang (붕어빵)
Fish-shaped pastry filled with red bean, custard, or sweet potato. Perfect snack for winter.
💸 Price: 1,000–2,000 KRW
8. Twisted Potato (회오리감자)
A whole potato spiral-cut and deep-fried on a stick, often dusted with cheese or chili powder.
💸 Price: 2,000–3,000 KRW
9. Tornado Sausage (소시지 회오리)
Sausage wrapped in a spiral of potato and deep-fried. Crunchy and filling.
💸 Price: 3,000–4,000 KRW
10. Korean Egg Bread (계란빵)
A soft bread with a whole egg baked into it. Slightly sweet and savory.
💸 Price: 1,500–2,500 KRW
Best Places to Find Korean Street Food
Looking for the best street food spots in Korea? Here are the top locations:
-Myeongdong (Seoul)
The ultimate street food heaven. Vendors line the shopping streets with every trendy snack imaginable.
-Gwangjang Market (Seoul)
One of the oldest traditional markets, famous for bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and yukhoe (beef tartare).
-Nampo-dong & Gukje Market (Busan)
Try Busan-style fish cake and Ssiat Hotteok, filled with sunflower seeds.
-Night Markets
Check out Bamdokkaebi Night Market in Seoul for creative fusion street food in a fun, social setting.
How Much Does It Cost?
Korean street food is generally affordable. You can enjoy a filling meal for around 5,000 to 10,000 KRW (about $4–$8 USD). Most vendors accept cash, but some popular locations now take card or mobile payments like KakaoPay.
🧡 Tip: Prepare small bills or coins (1,000 KRW notes are perfect) to make transactions faster and easier.
Street Food Etiquette in Korea
If you’re new to Korean culture, keep these simple tips in mind:
- Eat while standing near the stall or at tables if provided. Avoid walking while eating.
- Trash bins are often nearby—clean up after eating.
- A friendly “감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida)” or “Thank you!” is always appreciated.
Is It Safe for Foreigners?
Absolutely! Street food in Korea is generally very safe, and vendors take pride in cleanliness. However, if you have allergies or dietary restrictions, be sure to ask or use a translation app to double-check ingredients.
🌿 Vegetarians and vegans: Look out for vegetable kimbap, Hotteok, or sweet rice cakes (찹쌀떡).
Final Tips for Your Korean Street Food Adventure
- Best time: Most vendors open in the afternoon and stay open until late evening (10–11 PM).
- Useful apps: KakaoMap or Naver Map for finding markets and reviews.
- Pro tip: Street food makes great Instagram content—colorful, fun, and delicious!
