Taste Korea: 10 Must-Try Korean Foods That Foreigners Absolutely Love!

Hello, food enthusiasts and K-Culture fans! Korea, the land of K-Pop and K-Dramas, has captivated the world not only with its vibrant entertainment but also with its incredibly diverse and delicious K-Food. Many visitors arrive with a bucket list of places to see, but an equally important list should be: "What Korean dishes must I try?"

From sizzling Korean BBQ to comforting stews and vibrant street food, Korean cuisine offers a thrilling adventure for your taste buds. Today, we're taking you on a culinary tour of 10 popular Korean foods that foreigners love, explaining why they're so appealing, where to find them, and what to expect price-wise. Get ready to explore the exciting flavors of Korea!

1. Korean BBQ (Samgyeopsal / Bulgogi)

What it is: The quintessential Korean BBQ experience! Samgyeopsal (pork belly) and Bulgogi (marinated beef) are grilled at your table. You wrap the cooked meat in lettuce or perilla leaves with various side dishes (banchan) and sauces.
Why foreigners love it: The interactive, communal grilling process is a huge hit. The rich, savory flavors of the meat, especially when combined with fresh vegetables and spicy ssamjang, are irresistible. Many love the variety of banchan that accompany the meal.
Where to find it: Dedicated Korean BBQ restaurants are everywhere in Korea, from bustling Myeongdong and Hongdae in Seoul to local neighborhoods.
Price Range: Mid-range to high. Expect around 15,000 - 25,000 KRW per person for Samgyeopsal, and 20,000 - 35,000 KRW for Bulgogi.

2. Kimchi (김치)

What it is: The iconic Korean fermented side dish, most commonly made from napa cabbage and radishes, seasoned with chili powder, garlic, and other spices.
Why foreigners love it: Initially, some find the spiciness or fermented taste challenging, but many grow to love its complex, tangy, and spicy profile. It's often praised for its unique umami and refreshing crunch. It's a staple at almost every Korean meal.
Where to find it: Served free as a banchan (side dish) at nearly all Korean restaurants. You can also buy it at supermarkets.
Price Range: Comes free with most meals. Buying a small pack costs around 3,000 - 10,000 KRW.

3. Korean Fried Chicken (치킨 - Chikin)

What it is: Crispy fried chicken, often double-fried for extra crunch, typically served with various sweet, spicy, or savory sauces. Often enjoyed with beer (Chimaek - Chicken + Maekju/Beer).
Why foreigners love it: Its unparalleled crispiness and diverse flavor options (garlic soy, spicy, original) make it a global favorite. The "Chimaek" culture is also very appealing.
Where to find it: Countless Korean fried chicken chains and independent shops across the country.
Price Range: 18,000 - 25,000 KRW for a whole chicken (serves 2-3 people).

4. Bibimbap (비빔밥)

What it is: A vibrant bowl of warm white rice topped with an array of seasoned vegetables (namul), meat (often beef), a fried egg, and mixed with gochujang (Korean chili paste).
Why foreigners love it: Visually appealing with its colorful ingredients. It’s a complete and balanced meal, often praised for its healthy aspect and the satisfying mix of textures and flavors. You can adjust the spice level with gochujang.
Where to find it: Available at most traditional Korean restaurants and even some casual eateries.
Price Range: 8,000 - 15,000 KRW per bowl.

5. Tteokbokki (떡볶이)

What it is: Chewy rice cakes (tteok) cooked in a fiery, sweet, and savory gochujang-based sauce, often with fish cakes (eomuk) and boiled eggs. A quintessential Korean street food.
Why foreigners love it: The addictive spicy-sweet flavor profile, combined with the unique chewy texture of the rice cakes, creates an irresistible snack. It's an iconic street food Korea experience.
Where to find it: Popular at street food stalls in areas like Myeongdong, Hongdae, and traditional markets, as well as specialized tteokbokki restaurants.
Price Range: 4,000 - 8,000 KRW per serving at street stalls; specialty restaurants may cost more.

6. Sundubu-jjigae (순두부찌개)

What it is: A bubbling, spicy Korean soft tofu stew, typically served in a hot earthenware pot, often containing seafood, meat, or vegetables, with an egg cracked into it.
Why foreigners love it: The silky smooth soft tofu provides a comforting texture that contrasts with the rich, spicy broth. It's warm, hearty, and full of flavor, perfect for any season. Many appreciate the freshness of the ingredients.
Where to find it: Common at traditional Korean restaurants and specific stew-specializing eateries.
Price Range: 8,000 - 12,000 KRW per serving.

7. Japchae (잡채)

What it is: Stir-fried glass noodles (made from sweet potato starch) mixed with various colorful vegetables (spinach, carrots, onions) and meat, seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil.
Why foreigners love it: Its slightly sweet and savory flavor profile is generally appealing, and the chewy texture of the glass noodles is unique and satisfying. It's often found at celebrations and special occasions.
Where to find it: Served as a side dish (banchan) in many Korean restaurants, especially those offering set meals or Hanjeongsik (Korean table d'hôte). Also available in supermarkets or specialty stores.
Price Range: Comes free as banchan or 10,000 - 20,000 KRW for a dedicated dish.

8. Gimbap (김밥)

What it is: Seaweed-wrapped rice rolls filled with various ingredients like cooked vegetables, egg, ham, and sometimes beef or tuna. Similar in concept to Japanese sushi rolls but without raw fish, and cut into bite-sized pieces.
Why foreigners love it: A convenient and portable snack or light meal. It's not spicy and offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures in each bite. Perfect for picnics or quick meals on the go.
Where to find it: Very common at Korean snack bars ( 분식집 - bunsikjip), convenience stores, and supermarkets.
Price Range: 3,000 - 6,000 KRW per roll.

9. Naengmyeon (냉면)

What it is: Chilled buckwheat noodles in a tangy, savory, icy broth, often topped with sliced beef, cucumber, radish, and a boiled egg. Sometimes served with a spicy red sauce (bibim-naengmyeon).
Why foreigners love it: A refreshing and unique experience, especially during hot summers. The chewy texture of the noodles and the cold, savory broth are surprisingly addictive. It's a popular choice after eating hot Korean BBQ.
Where to find it: Specialist Naengmyeon restaurants or larger Korean BBQ restaurants.
Price Range: 9,000 - 14,000 KRW per bowl.

10. Kimchi-jjigae (김치찌개)

What it is: A classic, hearty stew made primarily with aged kimchi, tofu, pork (or tuna), and vegetables, boiled in a rich, savory, and spicy broth.
Why foreigners love it: A deeply comforting and flavorful dish. It’s spicy, but the sourness of the kimchi and the richness of the pork make it incredibly satisfying. It's a staple for many Koreans and a great way to experience a home-style Korean stew.
Where to find it: Almost all traditional Korean restaurants will have Kimchi-jjigae on their menu.
Price Range: 7,000 - 10,000 KRW per serving.

Your Korean Culinary Adventure Awaits!

From the interactive delight of Korean BBQ to the comforting warmth of a spicy Korean stew, these 10 popular Korean foods offer just a glimpse into the country's rich culinary scene. Each dish provides a unique foodie travel experience that will leave you wanting more!

Don't be afraid to try them all, and share your favorite Korean dishes in the comments below! Enjoy your K-Food journey!

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