So, you’ve landed in Seoul (or you’re planning to) and you’re already asking the big question: what to eat in Seoul? Trust me, I’ve been there, standing in the middle of Myeongdong, completely overwhelmed by the sights, smells, and sizzling sounds coming from every corner. It’s like the entire city is one giant kitchen where everyone’s invited to the feast.

Seoul isn’t just South Korea’s capital; it’s a full-on food paradise. From late-night BBQ joints where the smell of grilled pork belly hangs in the air, to humble street carts selling piping hot tteokbokki, every bite feels like an adventure. And the best part? Food here isn’t just about taste—it’s about culture, community, and connection.

In this guide, we’re diving into the iconic dishes, street snacks, and even some quirky eats you absolutely can’t miss. Whether you’re a kimchi newbie or a seasoned K-food lover, I’ve got you covered. Hungry already? Let’s dig in. 🍲

Table of Contents

1. Korean Barbecue

Nothing captures the soul of Korean dining like barbecue. At bustling restaurants, diners grill marinated beef, pork, or chicken right at the table, wrapping the smoky meat in lettuce leaves with garlic, chili, and sauces. The experience is interactive, social, and deeply satisfying.

Beyond just flavor, Korean barbecue embodies jeong—a sense of warmth and togetherness. Pair it with sides like kimchi, pickled radish, and cold beer, and you’ll understand why barbecue isn’t just a meal in Seoul, but a way of life.

2. Samgyetang (Korean Ginseng Chicken Soup)

Samgyetang is a wholesome dish made with a whole young chicken stuffed with sticky rice, ginseng, garlic, and jujubes, simmered until tender. Traditionally enjoyed in the hot summer months, it’s believed to replenish energy and balance the body. The broth is rich yet delicate, offering nourishment and comfort in every sip.

In Seoul, samgyetang restaurants are treasured for their centuries-old recipes. More than food, this soup represents wellness and tradition, giving diners both strength and a taste of Korean heritage.

3. Korean Fried Chicken

Crispy, juicy, and irresistibly flavorful, Korean fried chicken has taken the world by storm. Unlike its Western counterpart, it’s double-fried for extra crunch and often coated in sauces ranging from sweet soy to fiery chili. Served with pickled radish and ice-cold beer, it’s the ultimate comfort food for gatherings.

In Seoul, fried chicken shops light up the night, catering to both locals and visitors craving late-night bites. This dish symbolizes Seoul’s playful, indulgent side while showcasing Korea’s mastery of fried perfection.

4. Gamjatang

Gamjatang, or pork bone soup, is a spicy, hearty stew brimming with potatoes, cabbage, perilla seeds, and meaty pork bones. Known as a favorite hangover cure, it’s warming, filling, and deeply flavorful, with broth that clings to every bite. In Seoul, gamjatang is often shared among friends, arriving bubbling in large communal pots.

The dish speaks of rustic comfort and resourcefulness, transforming humble ingredients into something bold and memorable. Gamjatang is Seoul’s way of turning a simple meal into communal therapy.

5. Mandu

Mandu are Korean dumplings filled with meat, vegetables, and spices, enjoyed steamed, fried, or boiled in soups. Each style offers a different experience—from crisp golden edges to tender, comforting bites in broth. In Seoul, mandu shops and markets serve them fresh and steaming, often alongside kimchi or dipping sauces.

These dumplings symbolize versatility and tradition, appearing at celebrations and everyday meals alike. Whether as a snack, side dish, or main, mandu showcases the art of Korean home-style cooking in compact, flavorful packages.

6. Galbitang

Galbitang is a clear, comforting soup made from beef short ribs simmered slowly with radish, garlic, and onions. The result is a delicate broth with tender meat that falls off the bone. Often eaten with rice, it’s a beloved dish for cold weather or times when nourishment is needed without heaviness.

In Seoul, galbitang reflects both simplicity and depth—a balance of gentle flavors that soothe the palate and soul. This timeless classic is Korean comfort food at its most refined.

7. Ganjang Gejang

For adventurous eaters, ganjang gejang—raw crab marinated in soy sauce—is a true delicacy. The marinade infuses the crab with deep umami, while the soft, buttery meat offers a unique texture. Often called “rice thief” because it pairs so well with a bowl of steamed rice, this dish is both bold and elegant.

In Seoul, specialty restaurants proudly serve ganjang gejang, celebrating the natural sweetness of crab. It’s a dish that challenges and rewards, offering a truly authentic taste of Korea.

8. Bingsu

When summer heat hits, Seoul cools down with bingsu, a shaved-ice dessert topped with sweet red beans, fruits, condensed milk, or even cheesecake pieces. Light, refreshing, and endlessly customizable, bingsu is both indulgent and cooling. Modern cafés serve extravagant versions piled high with toppings, making it as much a visual treat as a culinary one.

Bingsu is more than dessert; it’s part of Seoul’s café culture, a way to slow down and savor sweet moments with friends during warm afternoons.

9. Tteokbokki (Rice Cakes in Chili Sauce)

Bright red, spicy, and irresistibly chewy, tteokbokki is Seoul’s most iconic street food. Made from cylindrical rice cakes simmered in gochujang chili paste, it delivers heat, sweetness, and texture all at once. Vendors serve it from steaming trays in markets, often with fish cakes and boiled eggs.

Tteokbokki isn’t just a snack—it’s a taste of nostalgia for locals and an initiation into Korean street flavors for visitors. It perfectly represents Seoul’s love of bold flavors packed into everyday bites.

10. Hotteok

Hotteok is a sweet, filled pancake that warms both hands and hearts. Fried until golden, it’s stuffed with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts that melt into gooey goodness. In winter, the smell of hotteok wafts through Seoul’s markets, drawing crowds eager for its comforting sweetness. Crispy outside and soft inside, it’s a perfect balance of textures.

Beyond being a snack, hotteok represents the joy of simple street food, turning cold evenings into warm, memorable experiences one bite at a time.

Seasonal Specialties

Spring: Strawberry bingsu and fresh cherry blossom drinks.
Summer: Samgyetang and icy naengmyeon.
Fall: Songpyeon (half-moon rice cakes) during Chuseok.
Winter: Roasted sweet potatoes and hotteok.

Tips & Tricks for Foodies in Seoul

Always share dishes—it’s part of the culture.
Many spots are cash-friendly only, so keep some won handy.
Avoid double-dipping sauces at BBQ spots (serious faux pas!).
Street food stalls usually open late afternoon, perfect for night snacking.

Final Bites & Takeaways

So, there you have it—your ultimate guide on what to eat in Seoul. From sizzling BBQ spreads to quirky market snacks and dreamy desserts, Seoul is a foodie wonderland where every meal feels like a celebration.

Next time you’re wandering the neon-lit streets, don’t just ask “what should I eat?”—ask “what adventure am I about to taste?”. Whether you’re brave enough to try silkworm pupae or just happy sticking with fried chicken and bingsu, Seoul will serve up memories you’ll never forget.

And hey, if you find yourself with a cold beer in one hand and a fried chicken wing in the other, congrats—you’re officially eating like a local 😉.