Top 5 Must-Try Foods in South Korea

When visiting South Korea for an internship, immersing yourself in the local cuisine is an absolute must. The array of things to eat in Korea reflects the Koreans rich cultural heritage and culinary innovation. From traditional dishes to street food favorites, Korean cuisine offers a diverse and delightful experience for all food lovers. In this blog, we’ll highlight five must-try foods that you shouldn’t miss during your internship in South Korea.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

• Things to Know About Korean Food Culture
• Korean BBQ (Samgyeopsal and Bulgogi)
• Kimchi
• Bibimbap
• Tteokbokki
• Korean Fried Chicken (Yangnyeom and Huraideu)

Things to Know About Korean Food Culture

South Korean cuisine is renowned for its diversity and richness, making it a culinary adventure for any visitor. Understanding Korean food culture will enhance your appreciation of the unique flavors and dining customs you'll encounter during your internship.

Diversity and Richness of South Korean Cuisine

Korean cuisine is characterized by a wide range of flavors, textures, and ingredients. From spicy and savory to sweet and tangy, the dishes are designed to provide a balanced and satisfying meal. The use of fermentation, spices, and fresh ingredients is integral to Korean cooking, resulting in unique and memorable dishes.

Importance of Food in Korean Culture

Food plays a central role in Korean culture, often serving as a means of bringing people together. Meals are considered a time for family and friends to gather and share, with communal dining being a common practice. The importance of food in social and ceremonial contexts is evident in the elaborate preparation and presentation of dishes.

Side Dishes (Banchan)

One of the distinctive features of a Korean meal is the variety of side dishes, known as banchan, that accompany the main course. These can include kimchi, pickled vegetables, seasoned greens, and more. Banchan are meant to complement the main dish and are usually shared among diners.

Pairing Food with Alcohol

In Korean culture, it is common to pair traditional dishes with alcoholic beverages like soju, beer, or makgeolli. These drinks are often enjoyed during meals, especially in social settings. For example, Korean BBQ is frequently paired with soju, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Aspect of Korean Food Culture

Description

Diversity and Richness

Wide range of flavors and ingredients

Importance of Food

Central role in social and ceremonial contexts

Side Dishes (Banchan)

Variety of small dishes shared among diners

Pairing with Alcohol

Common to enjoy meals with soju, beer, or makgeolli

‍

Korean BBQ (Samgyeopsal and Bulgogi)

Korean BBQ is a quintessential dining experience in South Korea, known for its wide range of good quality meat and a variety of side dishes.

Samgyeopsal (Pork Belly)

Samgyeopsal, or grilled pork belly, is one of the most popular choices for Korean BBQ. The thick slices of pork belly are grilled at the table and served with garlic, green chili peppers, and a dipping sauce made of sesame oil, salt, and pepper. It’s often enjoyed with a side of lettuce or perilla leaves to wrap the meat, along with a piece of garlic, a dab of ssamjang (a spicy paste), and a sliver of green chili pepper.

Bulgogi (Marinated Beef)

Bulgogi, meaning "fire meat," consists of thinly sliced marinated beef that is grilled to perfection. The marinade typically includes soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and pepper. Bulgogi is known for its sweet and savory flavor and is usually served with rice and banchan. It’s a popular dish for gatherings, providing a delicious and interactive dining experience.

‍

Kimchi

Kimchi is perhaps the most iconic Korean dish, deeply rooted in Korean culture and tradition.

Varieties of Kimchi

Kimchi is a fermented vegetable dish, most commonly made with napa cabbage and Korean radishes, though there are many varieties. Each region in Korea has its own version of kimchi, differing in ingredients and flavor profiles. Some popular types include baechu kimchi (napa cabbage kimchi), kkakdugi (radish kimchi), and oi sobagi (stuffed cucumber kimchi).

Cultural Significance

Kimchi holds a special place in Korean cuisine, not only as a side dish but also as a key ingredient in various other dishes such as kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew) and kimchi bokkeumbap (kimchi fried rice). The tradition of making kimchi, known as kimjang, involves families coming together to prepare large quantities for the winter, symbolizing community and cooperation.

Bibimbap

Bibimbap, meaning "mixed rice," is a vibrant and nutritious dish that is both visually appealing and delicious.

Ingredients and Variations

A typical bowl of bibimbap includes warm rice topped with an assortment of vegetables, a fried egg, and sliced meat (usually beef). It’s seasoned with gochujang (Korean chili paste) and sesame oil, then mixed thoroughly before eating. Variations of bibimbap include dolsot bibimbap, which is served in a hot stone bowl that creates a crispy layer of rice at the bottom.

A Go-to Meal

Bibimbap is a popular breakfast or lunch option because it is quick, easy to eat, and filling. The combination of vegetables, protein, and rice makes it a balanced meal that provides energy and nutrients to start the day.

‍

Tteokbokki

Tteokbokki is a beloved Korean street food, known for its chewy texture and spicy flavor.

Description of Tteokbokki

Tteokbokki consists of cylindrical rice cakes cooked in a spicy gochujang-based sauce. It often includes fish cakes, boiled eggs, and scallions. The dish is known for its bold, spicy flavor and is a favorite among street food vendors and casual eateries.

Street Food Delight

Easy to find from any street food vendor, tteokbokki is a popular snack enjoyed by people of all ages. It’s especially common to see students and young adults enjoying tteokbokki as a quick and satisfying bite while exploring the bustling streets of Seoul.

‍

Korean Fried Chicken (Yangnyeom and Huraideu)

Korean fried chicken is a culinary phenomenon, known for its unique preparation and irresistible flavors.

Yangnyeom Chicken

Yangnyeom chicken is Korean fried chicken coated in a sweet and spicy sauce. The chicken is double-fried to achieve an extra-crispy texture, then tossed in a sauce made from gochujang, garlic, sugar, and other seasonings. This creates a deliciously sticky and flavorful coating.

Huraideu Chicken

Huraideu chicken, or plain fried chicken, is known for its light and crispy batter. It’s often served with a side of pickled radish and a cold beer, a combination known as chimaek (chicken and beer). This dish has become a popular late-night snack and is enjoyed by many for its simplicity and satisfying crunch.

Exploring Korean Street Food

Street food is an integral part of Korean food culture, offering a wide variety of delicious and affordable snacks.

Hotteok (Sweet Pancakes)

Hotteok is a popular Korean street food, especially during the winter months. These sweet pancakes are filled with a mixture of brown sugar, honey, chopped peanuts, and cinnamon, then fried until crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. They are a warm and comforting treat enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

Odeng (Fish Cake Skewers)

Odeng, or fish cake skewers, are another staple of Korean street food. The fish cakes are boiled in a flavorful broth and served with a cup of the warm broth on the side. Odeng is a simple yet satisfying snack, often enjoyed with a dash of soy sauce or spicy mustard.

Bungeoppang (Fish-shaped Pastry)

Bungeoppang is a fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet red bean paste. It is a popular street food, especially in the colder months. The crispy exterior and sweet, soft filling make it a delightful snack that is loved by people of all ages.

Regional Specialties

South Korea’s diverse geography has given rise to regional specialties that highlight local ingredients and culinary traditions.

Jeonju Bibimbap

Jeonju, a city in the southwestern part of South Korea, is famous for its bibimbap. Jeonju bibimbap is renowned for its use of fresh and varied ingredients, including a mix of seasoned vegetables, marinated beef, and a raw egg yolk on top. The city’s commitment to using high-quality ingredients makes this dish a standout.

Busan’s Seafood

Busan, located on the southeastern coast, is known for its seafood. Jagalchi Market, one of the largest seafood markets in Korea, offers a wide variety of fresh seafood, including live octopus, abalone, and sea squirts. Visitors can enjoy a seafood feast at the market’s many stalls and restaurants, experiencing the freshest flavors from the sea.

Andong Jjimdak

Andong, a city in the central region of South Korea, is famous for its jjimdak, a braised chicken dish. Andong jjimdak is made with chicken, vegetables, and glass noodles, all simmered in a savory and slightly sweet soy-based sauce. The dish is hearty and flavorful, making it a beloved comfort food.

‍Integrating Food and Internship Experiences

As an intern in South Korea, experiencing local cuisine is an essential part of your cultural immersion. Not only will you get to taste the best food in Seoul and other regions, but you’ll also have opportunities to bond with colleagues and locals over meals. Here are some ways to integrate food experiences into your internship:

Team Lunches and Dinners

Participate in team lunches and dinners to build relationships with your colleagues. These gatherings often involve sharing meals and trying different dishes, providing a relaxed environment to connect with your peers.

Exploring Street Food with Fellow Interns

Make time to explore street food markets with fellow interns. Trying different street foods together can be a fun and memorable way to experience Korean food culture and make new friends.

‍

Conclusion

Exploring the things to eat in Korea offers a delightful journey through rich flavors and unique culinary traditions. From the communal experience of Korean BBQ to the comforting spice of tteokbokki, each dish provides a taste of Korean culture and history. As an intern, these food experiences will not only enhance your stay but also help you connect with the local culture and people.

Are you ready to dive into Korean cuisine during your internship? Plan your culinary adventure with Asia Internship Program (AIP) and discover the best food in Seoul and beyond. For more information on Korean food culture and internship opportunities, visit our website.

‍