Korean cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, colors, and textures that tantalizes the palate and warms the heart. If you’re planning a culinary journey through South Korea, there are certain dishes that you simply cannot miss. These dishes, steeped in tradition and bursting with flavor, reflect the essence of Korean culture and are sure to leave you craving more. Let’s embark on this delicious journey through the top 15 must-try Korean dishes!
1. Kimchi – The Quintessential Korean Delicacy
Kimchi in vibrant colors
Kimchi is a symbol of Korean cuisine that has won the hearts of food lovers worldwide. This flavorful dish is made from fermented napa cabbage, chili peppers, and a plethora of vegetables and spices. With its fiery red hue and a harmony of sweet, sour, and spicy tastes, kimchi is the soul of many Korean meals. Not having tried kimchi is a true missed opportunity to experience the deep culinary heritage of South Korea. Taste the five core flavors—sweet, sour, bitter, salty, and spicy—all wrapped up in a single bite!
Where to find the best kimchi:
- Yangdong Market: 94 Yangdong-ri, Gangdong-myeon, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongbuk
- Hanokjib Kimchi-jjim: 178 Naengcheon-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul
2. Bibimbap – The Colorful Rice Bowl
Bibimbap with vibrant ingredients
Bibimbap is a splendidly colorful dish consisting of mixed rice topped with seasoned vegetables, fried eggs, and spicy gochujang (red chili paste). The way the bright colors blend—white rice, yellow yolk, red kimchi, orange carrots, and deep green seaweed—creates a feast for the eyes as much as for the palate. Just mix it all together and enjoy a bowl of flavors that’s simply irresistible.
Top places to enjoy exquisite bibimbap:
- Gogung: 2층, 27 Myeongdong 8ga-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
- Jeonju Jungang Hoekwan: 21 Myeongdong 8na-gil, Myeongdong, Jung-gu, Seoul
- Manna Bunshik: 40 Donhwamun-ro 6ga-gil, Bongik-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul
3. Kimbap – The Korean Sushi Roll
Kimbap cut into perfect slices
Kimbap is often dubbed “Korean sushi,” a delightful roll made with rice, seaweed, beef, eggs, and assorted vegetables. This finger food is not only visually appealing but delivers a unique flavor profile too. Each bite of kimbap offers a delightfully chewy texture combined with the savory richness of its ingredients.
Best spots to savor kimbap:
- Mo-nyeo Woncho Mayak Kimbap: Gwangjang Market, Changgyeonggung Road, Jongno District, Seoul
- Chosun Kimbap: 78 Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
4. Jajangmyeon – The Black Bean Noodles
Jajangmyeon with its rich sauce
Jajangmyeon is a famous Korean noodle dish that features a savory black bean sauce made from fermented soybean paste, pork, and a mix of crunchy vegetables. The thick, luscious sauce combines sweet and salty notes, making every slurp of these chewy noodles an indulgent delight.
Where to taste the best Jajangmyeon:
- Star Jjamyeon: Unggu Dwegyero 200 (Pildong 2ga 7-3)
- Daehangak: 34-151 Itaewon-dong, Yongsangu, Seoul
5. Japchae – Stir-fried Glass Noodles
Japchae filled with colorful vegetables
Japchae is a special Korean dish made from sweet potato starch noodles, known for their unique chewy texture. Tossed with tender beef, crisp vegetables, and coated in a slightly sweet sesame oil and soy sauce mix, Japchae is both simple and sophisticated—perfect for any occasion!
Enjoy Japchae at these spots:
- Bucheon: 1128-2 Jung-dong Bucheon-si, Gyeonggi-do
- Namul Meongneun: 20-12 Jandari-ro, Seoul
6. Naengmyeon – Chilled Noodles
Naengmyeon garnished with toppings
During the hot summer days in Korea, Naengmyeon—cold noodles made from buckwheat—is a refreshing choice. With chilling broth that’s both light and savory, topped with slices of beef, pickled vegetables, and pear, each bowl of Naengmyeon feels like a bite of the cool breeze.
Where to find delicious Naengmyeon:
- Pildong Myeonok: 26, Seoae-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul
- Nampo Myeonok: 24 Eulji-ro 3-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
7. Bulgogi – Marinated Beef
Bulgogi sizzling on the grill
One of the most beloved dishes in Korea, Bulgogi features marinated beef grilled to perfection. The succulent meat, infused with sweet and savory flavors, creates an aroma that fills the air and tempts all nearby. Each bite melts in your mouth, making Bulgogi an unforgettable experience.
Top locations for spectacular Bulgogi:
- Maple Tree House: 26 Itaewon-ro 27ga-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
- Samwon Garden: 835 Eonju-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
8. Samgyeopsal – Grilled Pork Belly
Samgyeopsal sizzling on the BBQ
Samgyeopsal consists of thick cuts of pork belly grilled on an open flame, typically enjoyed with a side of fresh vegetables, dipping sauce, and, of course, kimchi. The crispy, juicy meat pairs wonderfully with the crunchiness of the sides, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor.
Best restaurants for Samgyeopsal:
- Yennaljip: 143 Eoulmadang-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul
- Blue Roof Town: 32-4 Yeongjung-ro 10-gil, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul
9. Galbi – Grilled Short Ribs
Japchae filled with colorful vegetables
Galbi refers to marinated short ribs that are grilled to juicy perfection, epitomizing the essence of Korean barbeque. The marinade, rich with soy sauce and spices, creates a mouthwatering flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of the meat.
Try Galbi at these renowned places:
- WooSung Galbi: 372-40 Sindang-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul
- Seocho Myeonok: 46 Banpo-daero 28-gil, Seocho-gu, Seoul
10. Gopchang – Grilled Intestines
Naengmyeon garnished with toppings
For adventurous eaters, Gopchang—grilled intestines—offers a chewy, flavorful taste experience. Its unique flavor profile and tantalizing aroma make it a popular choice among locals, especially when paired with a drink on a chilly evening.
Best spots for Gopchang:
- Gopchang Myeongdong: 2nd floor, 33 Myeongdong 9-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
- Ilbeonji Gopchang Makchang: 33 Myeongdong 9-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
11. Sundubu Jjigae – Spicy Soft Tofu Stew
Bibimbap with vibrant ingredients
Sundubu Jjigae is a comforting spicy stew made with soft tofu, vegetables, and meat or seafood. Best enjoyed hot on a cold day, this dish is packed with flavor and warmth, making it a must-try for anyone visiting Korea.
Top recommendations for Sundubu Jjigae:
- Baeknyeonok: 1450-6, Seocho-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul
- Chodang Halmeoni Sundubu: 307-4, Chodang-dong, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do
12. Samgyetang – Ginseng Chicken Soup
Naengmyeon garnished with toppings
Samgyetang, a nourishing soup of whole chicken stuffed with ginseng, glutinous rice, and jujube, is a celebrated dish known for its health-boosting properties. Typically enjoyed during the hot summer months, this dish is believed to enhance vitality and energy.
Best places to enjoy Samgyetang:
- Tosokchon Samgyetang: 5 Jahamun-ro 5-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Goryeo Samgyetang: 1 Seosomun-ro 11-gil, Jonggu, Seoul
13. Tteokbokki – Spicy Rice Cakes
Bibimbap with vibrant ingredients
Tteokbokki is a beloved street food made from chewy rice cakes smothered in a fiery spicy sauce. This dish is a perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and savory, making it a staple for many Koreans and a favorite among tourists as well.
Top spots for delectable Tteokbokki:
- Jopok Tteokbokki: 60 Eoulmadang-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul
- Hongdae Dooki Tteokbokki: 8, Hongik-ro 6-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
14. Seolleongtang – Beef Bone Soup
Bibimbap with vibrant ingredients
Seolleongtang is a rich and hearty bone soup made by simmering beef bones for hours until the broth turns creamy-white. Often served with rice and garnished with scallions, this traditional dish is comforting and nourishing, perfect for any cold day.
Best places for Seolleongtang:
- Imun Seolnongtang: 38-13 Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Cham Seolleongtang: 1340 Seocho-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul
15. Kalguksu – Hand-Cut Noodle Soup
Bibimbap with vibrant ingredients
Kalguksu features handmade noodles in a rich broth, typically made from chicken or beef bones. The broth is the essence of this dish, delivering deep, savory flavors that harmonize beautifully with the delicate noodles.
Top locations to enjoy Kalguksu:
- Noodle Soup Alley: Ga Jongno 3-ga Donhwamun-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Kalguksu Myeongdong Kyoja: 29 Myeongdong 10-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
Exploring the culinary wonders of South Korea opens up a world of flavors and unforgettable experiences. Make sure to visit MIA Go for more travel tips and to plan your perfect trip to Korea! Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and inspire others to join this delectable journey through Korean cuisine!