Legendary Korean Street Foods
Korean street food is a major draw for tourists, known for its variety, delicious flavors, and affordable prices. As you stroll through bustling streets, you’ll easily find stalls offering a wide range of tempting dishes like spicy rice cakes (Tteokbokki), fish cake skewers (Odeng), sugar candies (Bbopkki), and fish-shaped ice cream (Boong-uh-ppang). Each dish carries its own unique flavor, making it hard to resist trying them all.
Legendary Street Foods on Korean Screens
Thanks to the Hallyu wave, Korean street food has gained international fame over time. When you think of iconic snacks that frequently appear on Korean screens, which ones come to mind? And during your next trip to Korea, which dish are you most eager to try?
Spicy Rice Cakes (Tteokbokki)
Tteokbokki is one of the most famous Korean street foods, beloved for its distinctive spicy flavor and vibrant red color. This dish stands out due to its harmonious combination of chewy rice cakes, spicy chili sauce, and other ingredients like anchovies, seaweed, and fish cakes, creating a unique culinary experience. Tteokbokki is not only a popular snack but also a significant part of Korean food culture, adored by people around the world.
This dish is often served with fish cakes, boiled eggs, and vegetables, making for a complete and nutritious meal. You can find Tteokbokki in markets, food streets, or in restaurants and shopping malls.
Fish Cake Skewers (Odeng)
When talking about Seoul, you can’t overlook Odeng, the “queen” of street food snacks. These hot, chewy fish cake skewers soaked in rich seafood broth, with a hint of spicy chili sauce, offer an unforgettable taste. The sweet fish cakes, skewered and simmered in hot broth, are often enjoyed alongside spicy Tteokbokki, making them perfect for chilly days.
Ice Cream Waffle Sandwich
Another must-try Korean snack is the ice cream waffle sandwich. The soft, fragrant waffle paired with sweet scoops of ice cream creates a perfect match. Ice cream waffles are commonly sold at subway stations in Korea, but eating them on the train is discouraged. Be sure to enjoy them before boarding to avoid any reminders.
Sugar Candies (Bbopkki)
Sugar candies, or Bbopkki, are a beloved treat among both children and adults in Korea. On the streets of Seoul, it’s easy to spot people holding large, colorful candy sticks shaped like flowers, hearts, or even cartoon characters. Bbopkki has a sweet taste that melts in your mouth, providing an unforgettable experience.
Fish-shaped Pastry (Boong-uh-ppang)
Boong-uh-ppang, also known as Hotteok, is a famous Korean pancake-like pastry known for its delightful flavor. The pastry has a golden, crispy outer layer combined with a sweet, syrupy filling. With each bite, you’ll enjoy the perfect blend of crispy exterior and soft, sweet interior.
