South Korea is known for its unique and delicious cuisine that combines spicy, sweet, and savory flavors. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to try something new, here are eight must-try traditional dishes while you’re in South Korea.

Kimchi

Vegetarian and vegan kimchi (Chaesik-kimchi: 채식김치) recipe by Maangchi
Kimchi is a staple in Korean cuisine and is a traditional side dish made of fermented vegetables, most commonly napa cabbage. It’s spicy, sour, and salty, and is believed to aid digestion and boost the immune system.

Bibimbap

The Best of Bibimbap - Escoffier
Bibimbap is a colorful and healthy dish made of rice, mixed vegetables, and a protein such as beef or tofu. It’s topped with a fried egg and spicy gochujang sauce, and is typically served in a hot stone bowl to create a crispy rice crust.

Japchae

Korean food photo: Japchae for New Year’s Eve! on Maangchi.com
Japchae is a Korean noodle dish made of sweet potato starch noodles, stir-fried with vegetables, meat, and soy sauce. It’s sweet and savory, and the noodles have a unique chewy texture.

Bulgogi

Malikala's Ono Kine Grinds: Korean Bulgogi Beef
Bulgogi is a Korean barbecue dish made of thinly sliced marinated beef, grilled to perfection. The marinade is made with soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and other spices, giving the meat a sweet and savory flavor.

Tteokbokki

What Is Tteokbokki And What Does It Taste Like?
Tteokbokki is a popular Korean street food made of chewy rice cakes stir-fried with spicy gochujang sauce, fish cakes, and vegetables. It’s a popular comfort food in Korea and is known for its fiery kick.

Samgyetang

samgyetang | tradekorea
Samgyetang is a traditional Korean soup made of a whole young chicken stuffed with rice, garlic, ginseng, and jujubes, and simmered in a savory broth. It’s a nourishing and hearty dish often enjoyed during the summer months.

Jjajangmyeon

Chinese people taste Korean Chinese dishes for the first time
Jjajangmyeon is a Korean-Chinese noodle dish made of thick wheat noodles topped with a savory black bean sauce, diced pork, and vegetables. It’s a popular comfort food in Korea and is often enjoyed with pickled radishes

Haemul Pajeon

Haemul Pajeon (Seafood Scallion Pancake) - Korean Bapsang
Haemul Pajeon is a savory Korean pancake made with a variety of seafood, scallions, and flour batter. It’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and is typically served with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce and vinegar.

In conclusion, these eight traditional Korean dishes are just a small sampling of the delicious cuisine that South Korea has to offer. Whether you’re a fan of spicy, sweet, or savory flavors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Korean cuisine.