15 Best Seoul Street Foods: Can't Miss for Foodies in Korea!

South Korea is known for many things, including K-pop music and tv shows often called K-dramas.

Now, you can add food to that list! The capital city, Seoul, in particular, is emerging as a foodie destination! So, if you’re a fan of Korean culture, exploring the delicious array of street food in Seoul is one of the best ways to learn about the country's culture.

Walking the streets of Seoul will treat you to the sight of carts and food stalls sprinkled at every corner. It’s hard to resist them with the delicious aroma of freshly cooked food wafting into the air. It’s best to give in to that temptation since you’ll likely be rewarded with an unforgettable meal!

If you’re visiting Seoul soon, it’s best to be prepared by making a list of must-try street food in the city. Discover a world of popular Korean street food beyond bibimbap and Korean BBQ. 

If you’re not a foodie, don’t fret because Seoul offers many things to see and do. And while you explore this unique Asian hub, you're sure to find some good eats that’ll make your taste buds sing!

It’s time to discover some of the famous street food dishes you won't want to miss.

15 Famous Street Food in Seoul

Trying out the best Seoul street food doesn’t have to break the bank. Most of these culinary treats are sold at less than $5 a serving so that you can indulge in street food in Korea on a budget. 

15. Mung Bean Pancakes

Let’s begin the must-try Seoul street food list with a filling and savory treat. Mung bean pancakes are a staple in the streets of Korea, and it’s made from ground mung beans, rice, pork, egg, and kimchi. You can’t get more Korean than that! 

Each serving usually comes with a dipping sauce to complement the flavors of the pancake. 

You can easily find these pancakes for 3,000 won or approximately 2.20 USD.

14. Korean Dumplings (Mandu)

Mandu, Korea’s version of dumplings, is one of the most beloved treats in Seoul. You can find this in restaurants or food cart stalls. The freshly cooked version of these on-the-street food stalls is waiting to be devoured. 

Korean dumplings are sold for as little as 3,000 won or 2.20 USD, for 3-5 pieces per plate.

13. Glass Noodles (Japchae)

Japchae is a classic noodle dish from Korea and is one of the most coveted Korean street food items. The noodles are made from sweet potatoes and cooked with vegetables, mushrooms, and soy sauce, and the sauce is sweet and savory.

If you want the meatier version, choose ones topped with bulgogi beef.

Slurp up some iconic glass noodles for 2,000 won or 1.50 USD.

12. Gimbap

Speaking of Seoul street food staples, gimbap is one of those must-try items on your list. It’s like a sushi roll filled with pickled vegetables and steamed white rice. It’s rolled inside dried seaweed and sprinkled with sesame seeds. Every bite is so satisfyingly good!

Grab a roll of gimbap on the go for prices between 1,000 to 3,000 won or 0.75 to 2.2 USD.

11. Spicy Rice Cakes (Tteokbokki)

South Korea is known for its spicy dishes, and these spicy rice cakes are a must-try if you’re looking for something with a kick!

The rice cakes are cylinder-shaped and covered in chili sauce. The vibrant orange-red color makes it inviting, and the texture of the rice cakes is slightly chewy. 

Get this for 2,500 to 3,500 won or 1.80 to 2.65 USD.

10. Korean Deep-Fried Vegetables 

Deep frying is one of Korea’s favorite ways of cooking their food.

The deep-fried vegetable dish is another favorite in the Seoul street food scene. It’s a great way to enjoy veggies since they’re crunchy and flavorful. It’s very similar to Japanese tempura. 

Get this for 500 to 1,500 won or 0.35 to 1.10 USD.

9. Red Bean Fish Toast

Here’s another Seoul street food similar to Takoyaki, a famous Japanese snack.

The main difference with this red bean fish toast is that it’s shaped like a fish. It’s a dessert treat instead of a savory snack, like Takoyaki. The waffle bean batter is stuffed with a sweet paste. The crispy exterior and the soft filling make for a delicious combo!

Munch on this fish-shaped treat for around 1,000 to 2,000 won or 0.75 to 1.50 USD. 

8. Korean Hot Dog

Do you like french fries and hot dogs? Need help deciding what to eat between the two? The Korean Hot Dog is the best solution!

It’s a famous Korean street food staple: a deep-fried hot dog wrapped in french fries. Everyone that’s had it raves about it, so you should try it when you’re in Seoul. 

Chow down on a Korean hot dog for 2,000 won or 1.50 USD.

7. Tornado Potato

If you’d rather have your fried potato treat and not the hot dog, why not go for the Tornado Potato? It’s another popular snack in Seoul, commonly served in various street food stalls.

The spiral-cut potato is served on a stick with a generous dose of powdered flavorings, such as BBQ, cheese, and onion. 

You can buy an iconic Tornado Potato for 2,000 won or 1.50 USD.

6. Deep Fried Dumplings

Deep-fried dumplings are one of Seoul’s most famous street foods because they’re filling and delicious. The dumplings feature a crunchy outer layer and a tasty filling.

In Korean, deep fried dumplings are called "gun-mandoo."

Grab this dish for 1,000 won or 0.75 USD.

5. Korean Fried Chicken

If you’re a Korean culture fan, you know they love fried chicken deeply. As such, you should include the famous Korean fried chicken on your must-try Seoul street food list. 

Korean fried chicken is unique because it’s double deep-fried, has a crunchy texture, and is served with soy or garlic sauce. You’ll find yourself licking your fingers after this one!

Remember to make this a meal for 3,000 won or 2.25 USD, and don't forget it goes well with a beer.

4. Grilled Seafood

No food trip in Seoul would be complete without tasting the grilled seafood options, such as squid and octopus. If you’re exploring the famous night markets of Seoul, you’ll likely find a stand offering these delicious seafood treats. 

Enjoy seafood from 3,000 to 5,000 won or 2.25 to 4.16 USD. 

3. Giant Cream Puff

Koreans aren’t known for their pastries, but you can find decadent options in the street food stalls and night markets. One example is the Giant Cream Puff. This dessert treat features a puffed and crunchy exterior with a delicious cream and custard filling. 

Get this for 2,000 won or 1.75 USD.

2. Korean Mochi Rice Cakes

If you love mochi, you will enjoy this dessert treat in the streets of Seoul.

Korean rice cakes are made with sweet glutinous rice flour and has that soft and chewy texture. It also comes with fillings, such as red bean paste. It’s a traditional dessert in Korea, so it’s a must-try in Seoul. 

Satisfy your sweet tooth by grabbing Korean mochi for 1,000 won or 0.75 USD. 

1. Blood Sausage (Soondae)

Soondae is one of Seoul’s most famous street foods, but it isn’t for everyone.

Soondae blood sausage cooked with rice and noodles. Each serving of this dish also comes with sliced lungs. Try it if you’re feeling adventurous or in the mood for exotic dishes!

Try it out for as little as 6,000 won or 5.25 USD. 

Best Places to Try Street Food in Seoul

Where do you go searching for the best street food in Seoul? Here are some options for you:

• Gwangjang Market – It’s a century-old market and the oldest in Seoul, with many food stalls offering a variety of delicious meal choices! 
• Myeongdong Street Food Alley – It’s located within Seoul’s most famous shopping district, making it easily accessible for foodies.
• Tongin Market – It’s a traditional market close to Gyeongbokgung Palace. 
• Bamdokkaebi Night Market – It’s the best place for food, fun, and many festivities!
• Namdaemun Market – It’s the largest market in Seoul, with over 10,000 stalls. 

To experience more Korean culture, why not join a cooking class and market tour on your visit? You can also join locals for a street food tasting tour to sample the best street food in Seoul. 

Discover Seoul with Pilot!

Relishing the famous street food in Seoul is one of the best ways to eat like a local. You better seize the opportunity and eat to your heart's content!

What if you’re looking for other ways to see and experience this city? In that case, you’ll need a reliable travel planner to make your planning more manageable and efficient.