Discover the Flavors of Korea: Top 10 Street Foods You Must Try

Korea is renowned for its vibrant street food culture, offering a myriad of flavors and textures that are both unique and irresistible. From bustling markets to hidden alleyways, the country’s street food scene is a culinary adventure waiting to be explored. Here are the top 10 street foods you must try on your next visit to Korea.

1. Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes)

Tteokbokki is one of Korea’s most beloved street foods. These chewy rice cakes are cooked in a spicy, sweet sauce made from gochujang (Korean red chili paste), soy sauce, and sugar. Often garnished with green onions and boiled eggs, tteokbokki delivers a satisfying kick that keeps locals and tourists coming back for more.

2. Hotteok (Sweet Pancakes)

Hotteok is a popular winter snack, perfect for warming up on a chilly day. 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. Each bite is a delightful blend of crunchy and sweet.

3. Eomuk (Fish Cake)

Eomuk, also known as odeng, is a skewered fish cake often served in a savory broth. It’s a comforting snack, especially during the colder months. Vendors typically offer a cup of hot broth alongside the skewers, making it a satisfying and warming treat.

4. Gimbap (Seaweed Rice Rolls)

Gimbap resembles sushi but has its own distinct flavor. It consists of rice and various fillings like spinach, pickled radish, carrots, and sometimes meat, all rolled up in a sheet of seaweed. Gimbap is portable and versatile, making it a perfect on-the-go meal.

5. Bungeoppang (Fish-shaped Pastry)

Bungeoppang is a fun and tasty treat, especially popular during the winter. These fish-shaped pastries are filled with sweet red bean paste and grilled to perfection. The crispy exterior and soft, sweet interior make bungeoppang a favorite among all ages.

6. Sundae (Blood Sausage)

Sundae is a traditional Korean sausage made from pig’s intestines stuffed with a mixture of glass noodles, barley, and pig’s blood. It’s often served with a side of liver or lung and dipped in a salty shrimp sauce. Despite its unusual ingredients, sundae is a savory delight that’s rich in flavor and texture.

7. Dakkochi (Chicken Skewers)

Dakkochi are grilled chicken skewers glazed with a variety of sauces, from spicy and sweet to savory. The chicken is usually marinated beforehand, making it juicy and flavorful. These skewers are a perfect snack to enjoy while strolling through the streets.

8. Hodugwaja (Walnut Pastry)

Hodugwaja, or walnut pastry, is a sweet treat originating from the city of Cheonan. These small, walnut-shaped pastries are filled with red bean paste and a whole or half walnut. They are baked until golden brown, offering a delightful combination of a crunchy walnut and a sweet, soft filling.

9. Twigim (Korean Tempura)

Twigim is Korea’s answer to tempura, offering a variety of deep-fried goodies like vegetables, shrimp, and even boiled eggs. Served with a side of tteokbokki sauce for dipping, twigim is a crispy and satisfying snack that’s perfect for sharing.

10. Patbingsu (Shaved Ice Dessert)

While not a typical street food, patbingsu is a popular summer treat found at many street vendors. This shaved ice dessert is topped with sweet red beans, condensed milk, and various fruits. It’s a refreshing way to cool down and enjoy a sweet treat during the hot summer months.

Korea’s street food scene is a testament to the country’s rich culinary heritage and innovative spirit. Whether you’re a foodie looking to explore new flavors or just someone in need of a quick, delicious snack, these street foods offer a delightful taste of Korean culture. So next time you find yourself wandering the streets of Seoul or Busan, make sure to indulge in these iconic street eats. Your taste buds will thank you!

Understanding KOREA, Busan's Climate and the Best Time to Visit

 Busan, South Korea's second-largest city, is renowned for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history. To make the most of your visit, understanding Busan's climate and the best times to travel is essential. Here’s an overview of the yearly temperatures and the ideal times to visit.

Average Annual Temperature

Busan enjoys a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. The city's average annual temperature is around 15°C (59°F).

• Spring (March to May): Temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). The weather is generally mild and pleasant, making it a great time to explore the city.
• Summer (June to August): This is the warmest season, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 30°C (72°F to 86°F). However, the humidity can make it feel hotter.
• Autumn (September to November): Similar to spring, autumn sees temperatures between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The cool breeze and clear skies offer perfect conditions for outdoor activities.
• Winter (December to February): Winter temperatures range from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F). Although it rarely snows, the sea breeze can make it feel quite cold​  
  (Climates to Travel)​​ (Weather Atlas)​​ (Climate Data)​.

Rainy Season

Busan’s rainy season, or “jangma,” typically occurs from late June to late July. During this period, the city experiences significant rainfall due to the East Asian monsoon. Unlike the short, intense showers seen in Southeast Asia, Busan's rainy season involves several days of continuous rain. The combination of rain and summer heat can lead to high humidity levels, which might be uncomfortable for some travelers. If you find yourself in Busan during the rainy season, indoor activities like visiting museums, shopping in outlets, and enjoying local cuisine in restaurants can be excellent alternatives​.

Best Time for Vacation

The best time to visit Busan largely depends on your personal preferences and what you want to do during your trip:

• Spring (March to May): Ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Cherry blossoms bloom in early April, making parks and streets picturesque. Events like the Busan Lotus Lantern Festival add cultural charm to your visit.
  
  
  
  
  
• Summer (June to August): Best for beachgoers and festival lovers. Haeundae Beach and Gwangalli Beach are buzzing with activities. The Busan Sea Festival in August is a major highlight. Note that while June's sea temperatures are still cold, late July to August is ideal for swimming. However, late July to early August is peak holiday season in Korea, so expect larger crowds.
  

  

  
  
• Autumn (September to November): Perfect for those who enjoy mild weather and clear skies. The Busan International Film Festival in October attracts cinema buffs from around the world. Hiking trails, like those on Geumjeongsan Mountain, offer stunning autumn foliage.
  

  

  
  
  
• Winter (December to February): If you prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind the cold, winter can be a peaceful time to explore Busan. The city's Christmas lights and New Year celebrations create a festive atmosphere. Watching the sunrise from the beach on January 1st is a unique experience.​
  
  (Climates to Travel)​​ (Weather Atlas)​​ (Climate Data)​​ (TimeandDate)​.

By understanding Busan's climate and the characteristics of each season, you can choose the best time to visit according to your preferences and ensure a memorable and enjoyable trip.

Where should I go on a trip to Busan in KOREA? Top 10 Busan Tours Part 2

2024.06.06 - [LOVE MY BUSAN] - Top 10 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Busan: Part 1 (5 Places Recommended)

6. Travel to the east of Busan, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple & Osiria Tourist Complex

1) Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

This picturesque temple is located on the coastline, offering stunning ocean views and a serene atmosphere. It’s one of the few temples in Korea set by the sea and is renowned for its beauty, especially during sunrise.

2) Osiria Tourist Complex

This area features a variety of attractions including Lotte World Adventure Busan, a large aquarium, and beautiful parks. It’s a perfect spot for families and tourists looking to enjoy modern entertainment and natural beauty.

Lotte World Adventure Busan

Lotte World Adventure Busan is a major theme park located in the Osiria Tourist Complex. It features a variety of thrilling rides, family-friendly attractions, and themed zones. Highlights include roller coasters, water rides, and interactive experiences. The park also offers entertainment shows, parades, and a range of dining options. Designed to provide a magical experience for visitors of all ages, it's an ideal destination for both locals and tourists looking for fun and excitement.

Skyline Luge Busan

Skyline Luge Busan is an exciting attraction located at the Osiria Tourist Complex. It offers a fun-filled gravity ride experience where you can navigate through twists, turns, and tunnels on a specially designed luge cart. Suitable for all ages, it provides both scenic and thrilling tracks, ensuring an exhilarating adventure for families, friends, and solo travelers alike. The luge is a must-visit for those seeking a blend of adventure and spectacular views of Busan's coastline.

7. Yeongdo, which preserves the characteristics of Busan

1) Taejongdae

Taejongdae Resort Park is one of Busan's most iconic natural landmarks, located on the southern tip of Yeongdo Island. Known for its breathtaking cliffs, dense forests, and panoramic ocean views, Taejongdae offers various activities:

1. Observation Deck: Enjoy stunning views of the sea and surrounding islands.
2. Yeongdo Lighthouse: A historical lighthouse providing scenic vistas.
3. Danubi Train: A convenient way to explore the park's key sites.
4. Hiking Trails: Numerous trails through lush greenery and along the coastline.

2) Huinnyeoul Cultural Village

Huinnyeoul Cultural Village is a vibrant neighborhood located in Yeongdo, Busan. Known for its artistic charm, the village features:

1. Colorful Murals: Streets adorned with murals and art installations by local artists.
2. Quaint Houses: Traditional Korean houses that reflect the area’s history.
3. Cultural Workshops: Activities where visitors can engage in traditional crafts and arts.
4. Scenic Views: Stunning views of the coastline and Busan cityscape.

It’s a great place to experience local culture, art, and scenic beauty.

8. Songdo

1) Songdo Beach

Songdo Beach is Korea's first beach and home to the first marine cable car. The marine cable car resumed operation after 29 years on June 21, 2017, and has now become a landmark in the West. In addition, Songdo's famous Yonggung Cloud Bridge is a 127m long and 2m wide bridge that connects Amnam Park to the upper part of Dongseom Island, a small uninhabited island across the sea. You can enjoy the thrill of walking over the sea and the natural scenery created by the strangely shaped cliffs.

2) Songdo Cloud Trail

Songdo Cloud Trail is Korea's longest curved skywalk, measuring 365 meters in length, located near Turtle Island. This trail offers an exhilarating experience as you walk over the sea, giving the sensation of floating above the water. At the observatory, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline and the natural beauty created by the uniquely shaped cliffs.

9. Hidden charm of Busan travel, Oryukdo & Igidae Park treason

1) Oryukdo

The emerald sea where the East Sea and the South Sea meet and five, sometimes six islands. Oryukdo is a rocky island in Yongho-dong, Nam-gu, and is a sunrise park where you can enjoy the open view of Oryukdo. Anyone of any age can enjoy the thrilling Skywalk, which is built on a rocky cliff with a glass floor.

2) Igidae Park

A place where you can see Gwangan Bridge and Haeundae from a slightly different angle. It is a hidden view point that only those in the know know about. Especially in the evening, you can see the night view of the Haeundae Marine City area along with Gwangan Bridge, and the view is unlike any other night view overseas.

10. Busan-like, Gamcheon Culture Village & Jangnim Port

1) Gamcheon Culture Village

Gamcheon Culture Village is called Korea’s Machu Picchu. A maze of alleyways with terraced housing. And the stamp tour is one of the reasons that makes me want to come to Gamcheon Culture Village again.

2) Jangnim Port

A port lined with pretty buildings and ships shining in fluorescent colors. Jangnim Port is called the Venice of Busan, or ‘Bunecia,’ and is a popular photo spot that many people visit.

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11. Sunset in Busan, Dadaepo Beach & Amisan Observatory🌈

1) Dadaepo Beach

Dadaepo Beach is wide and shallow, making it a great summer vacation spot for families. The sunset that colors the sky of Dadaepo red is also a point of pride. This is the best sunset beach in Busan.

2) Amisan Observatory

The best place to view the entire Nakdong River estuary at a glance. In particular, this place is beneficial for families and children as they can not only observe the view, but also tour the exhibition hall that introduces the topography and geology of the Nakdong River area. The midday estuary scenery is pleasing to the eye, but the red sky at sunset is especially spectacular. Sunset point!

I have compiled a list of Busan tourist attractions in various regions.

Of course, as a metropolis with a population of 3.5 million, there are many more diverse tourist attractions, things to do, things to enjoy, and things to eat.

First, we introduced 11 representative tourist attractions. Usually, out of the 11 places, you can tour 2 or 3 of them by grouping them in similar areas. For example, you can combine Gamcheon Village and Dadaepo sunset on a course from afternoon to sunset and go out to Jagalchi in Nampo-dong to enjoy seafood for dinner.

It’s a good idea to combine your tour of Haeundae into one. We stay at an accommodation in Haeundae, enjoy swimming in the morning, and have lunch. And in the afternoon, you can take the Blue Line Park Beach Train to Songjeong Beach for coffee, then go back to Haeundae and see the night view of Marine City skyscrapers at Dongbaek Island, then have dinner and a drink at Gwangalli.

Enjoy Busan~!!

If you have any inquiries about the tour course, please leave a comment! I'll answer whether it's a good course or not!

2024.06.06 - [LOVE MY BUSAN] - Top 10 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Busan: Part 1 (5 Places Recommended)

Top 10 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Busan: Part 1 (5 Places Recommended)

 

Busan has many hidden tourist spots. Among them, we have selected the top 10 representative tourist attractions in Busan. Rather than detailed descriptions, this serves as a general guide to what attractions Busan has and which places are good to visit! First, we introduce 5 places in Part 1. A map with their approximate locations is provided! It will be helpful when planning your itinerary!
Busan travel, let's go!!

1. Start Your Busan Trip Here: Haeundae Area

1) Haeundae Beach

Haeundae is a quintessential seaside resort in Korea, offering a variety of attractions including luxury hotels, restaurants, and an aquarium. Especially during the peak summer season, it attracts over a million tourists, making it one of Korea's most popular tourist destinations.

2) Dalmaji-gil(road)

Dalmaji-gil is a scenic hillside road that stretches from Haeundae Beach to Songjeong Beach. Lined with cherry trees and pine trees, it offers a picturesque drive and is famous as a driving route. Along the road, there are numerous galleries and cafes, adding cultural enjoyment to the experience.

3) BUSAN X the SKY

BUSAN X the SKY is located in the Haeundae LCT Landmark Tower, the second tallest building in Korea. It is the largest observatory in the country, offering expansive ocean views of Haeundae and the dazzling cityscape of Busan.

4) Dongbaek Island

Located at the southern end of Haeundae Beach, Dongbaek Island boasts a picturesque landscape filled with dense camellia trees and pine trees. A popular attraction among tourists is the Nurimaru APEC House, and the surrounding trails make for a pleasant walking route.

5) Marine City

Marine City boasts some of the best skyscraper views in Korea, offering a unique perspective on Haeundae's nightscape.

• Visit The Bay 101. You can enjoy marine leisure activities like yacht experiences, along with various food options. The view of the buildings in Marine City at sunset is particularly stunning.

2. For Nightlife in Busan, Head to Seomyeon

Seomyeon is the place to be for a vibrant nightlife experience in Busan.

Seomyeon is Busan's premier entertainment district, offering a wide variety of shopping, dining, and drinking options.

1) Jeonpo Cafe Street

Across from the bustling Seomyeon First Street lies the quiet and charming Jeonpo Cafe Street. Originally an area filled with stores selling tools and hardware, Jeonpo-dong has transformed into a haven of quaint and unique cafes. If you are looking for cozy coffee shops and special coffee brews, this is the place to be.

Seomyeon, known as a youth hotspot, boasts a variety of restaurants and bars, making it ideal for shopping and nightlife. With Lotte Department Store nearby, it's also a great shopping destination. Enjoying a lively evening with friends and drinks is a delightful way to unwind during your trip.

2) Hocheon Village

Hocheon Village is known for its romantic night views, making it a "hidden gem" for nightscapes. A great way to experience it is to take a taxi up to the village and then enjoy a leisurely walk down while taking in the stunning night views.

3. The Charm of Busan's Old Town: BIFF Square, Yongdusan Park, Jagalchi Market, Gukje Market

Exploring Busan's old town offers a unique glimpse into the city's rich history and vibrant culture. Here are some must-visit spots:

1) BIFF Square

BIFF Square is the heart of Busan's film culture, hosting the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) every year. The square is lined with handprints of famous actors and directors, as well as numerous street food stalls and shops, making it a lively and bustling area.

2) Yongdusan Park

Yongdusan Park is a serene green space in the city center, home to the iconic Busan Tower. The park offers panoramic views of the city and the harbor, and it's a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll.

3) Jagalchi Market

Jagalchi Market is Busan's largest seafood market, famous for its fresh catch and lively atmosphere. Visitors can buy fresh seafood and have it prepared on the spot, enjoying a true taste of Busan's maritime heritage.

4) Gukje Market

Gukje Market is one of Korea's largest traditional markets, offering a wide variety of goods from clothing and accessories to electronics and souvenirs. It's a great place to experience local life and pick up unique finds.

It is also famous for its variety of street foods, including tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and other delicious snacks.

These locations provide a perfect blend of cultural, historical, and culinary experiences, making them essential stops for anyone visiting Busan.

4. For Night Views in Busan, Head to Gwangalli & Hwangnyeongsan Beacon Mound

1) Gwangalli Beach

Gwangalli Beach is famous for its stunning night view of the illuminated Gwangan Bridge. The beach is lined with cafes and restaurants, making it an ideal spot to relax and take in the evening scenery.

+ Gwangan Bridge

The lights on Gwangan Bridge are illuminated from sunset until midnight on weekdays (Sunday to Thursday) and from sunset until 2 AM on weekends (Friday and Saturday). The laser show takes place three times daily (at 8:30 PM, 9:30 PM, and 10:30 PM), decorating the night sea of Gwangalli for about 10 minutes each time.

2) Hwangnyeongsan Beacon Mound

Hwangnyeongsan Beacon Mound offers panoramic views of Busan's city lights. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists to enjoy the breathtaking nightscape of the city.

5. Experience the Ocean Views of Busan: Songjeong Beach & Haeundae Blueline Park

1) Songjeong Beach

Walking past Haeundae Mipo Beach and through the cherry blossom-lined Dalmaji-gil, you will find Songjeong Beach spreading out at the end of the road. It offers a different seascape compared to the glamorous views of Haeundae Beach.

Songjeong Beach is also a surfer's paradise, attracting surfers year-round. With its consistently high waves, shallow waters, and optimal water temperatures, it provides the perfect conditions for surfing in all seasons. Try searching for "Songjeong Beach surfing" for more information.

2) Haeundae Blueline Park

A place where the blue sky and sea come alive! Haeundae Blueline Park is an eco-friendly redevelopment of the old Donghae Nambu Line railway facilities, spanning a 4.8km section from Mipo to Cheongsapo to Songjeong. The park operates a beach train and sky capsules, allowing visitors to enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery.

Ticket Booth Locations: Mipo Station, Cheongsapo Station, Songjeong Station
Operating Hours: 9:30 AM - 9:30 PM

I'll continue with the recommendations in Part 2~!