Visiting Korea this summer can be an action-packed experience, but between the shopping trips, sightseeing and nightclub visits, you will probably find yourself in need of a quick bite. Not to worry, Korea is one of the best places to eat on the go, with seemingly ubiquitous food stalls and kiosks.
Here, we break down our top 10 favorite street foods.
10. Tornado Potato
Invented in Korea in 2007, this spiral-cut potato skewer has been gaining street food fans these days. One whole potato is placed in the special machine which cuts it into its twister-like shape and it is deep fried and then dipped into a cheese or onion powder. This new-fangled street food commands a slightly higher price, around $2.50.
9. Noodles
Quick and cheap noodles can be purchased on the streets of Korea anytime you want in many varieties, including Vietnamese pho, Japanese udon and bokkeum myeon, which is basically a Korean version of stir-fried lo mein. The vendors prepare the broth beforehand and throw in noodles that are heated up right after it’s ordered. The price of a bowl of yummy noodles usually won’t cost you more than $2 and the street side noodle shops are open late, which makes it popular among late-night revelers.
8. French Fry Corn Dogs
While traditional hot dogs never really took off in Korea, one street food that has thrived is the corn dog, which Koreans call a “hot dog.” Confused? You may be even more confused when you see the improvements they have made to the corn dog by encrusting French fries all over it. The fried monster, called a gamja dog, is particularly popular with young people, who eat it with ketchup and sometimes sugar. Look out for the rare varieties which use tater tots. Cost: 2,000 – 2,500 won ($1.75 – $2.20)
7. Dakkochi
Dakkochi are simple skewers of grilled chicken and vegetables. Customers can pick one of the many available sauces, hot sauce is usually the go-to option. Dakkochi has a unique, flame-broiled flavor, which makes people come back again and again. Cost: 2,000 won ($1.75)
6. Cup toast
Cup toast is usually sold to busy office workers and students who don’t have much time to eat breakfast. You can find the customers standing near vendors located in front of crowded subway stations or bus stops, drawn by the delicious smell of buttery toast, fried eggs and cheese. Cost: 1,500 – 2,000 won ($1.30 – $1.75)
