Food lovers around the globe are going crazy for Korean delicacies, and Seoul is becoming their dream destination to travel to. But did you know that South Korea’s culinary landscape goes far beyond the busy streets and fine dining of the capital?
South Korea is home to many food hotspots that are still hidden and are waiting to be explored. These cities offer a more authentic taste that comes from the culture of South Korea. Want to know about this list? Read till the end.
Gwangju
This city is often ignored when travelers visit the country. However, it has some of the most lively food markets where you can taste a wide range of local dishes. These dishes can be savory snacks, full meals, or even delicious desserts. One such well-known place is the Gwangju Yangdong Market that offers Korean street food, like spicy rice cakes, odeng- a type of fish cake, and bindaetteok- bean pancakes.
One of their signature dishes is Gwangju-style kimchi. It is known for its unique, spicy, and tangy flavor, which is considered to be the best in Korea. Many tourists even attend kimchi-making workshops where they learn the traditional methods of making Korean food. Gwangju is also famous for ssam- meat wrapped in leafy vegetables.
Jeonju
This is one of South Korea’s most famous cities, known for the origin of the well-known international dish, bibimbap. This wholesome dish is made with rice, vegetables, a fried egg, and protein like beef or chicken, all topped with a spicy Korean chili paste called gochujang. Jeonju’s version of bibimbap is especially famous for its rich, fresh, and locally sourced ingredients. The city is also known for its high-quality rice, which is considered among the best in the country.
Jeonju also has a food culture that includes traditional Korean meals like jeon, makgeolli, and various banchan (side dishes). The Hanok Village in this city is an area worth experiencing. It has multiple food stalls and local restaurants that offer traditional dishes in an authentic setting. Not many travelers know this hidden gem, but those who know never miss it.
Incheon
Icheon is mainly known for housing the country’s primary international airport. But this city has much more to offer than just an airport. It offers some of the best seafood in Korea, thanks to its coastal location. The Sinpo International Market is famous here for its jajangmyeon (noodles in black bean paste sauce) as well as its wide selection of fresh fish and shellfish. You can enjoy their local raw fish, hoe, which is commonly eaten with various dipping sauces, or even try their eomuk, which is a fish cake.Incheon’s seafood culture is deeply connected to its coastal geography, and the city provides an excellent opportunity to explore South Korea’s maritime cuisine.
Busan
Though not a hidden gem, Busan stands as one of South Korea’s most important food destinations, thanks to the abundance of fresh seafood it offers. Busan’s Jagalchi Fish Market is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience South Korea’s seafood culture. The market is always full of vendors offering everything from live octopus to grilled fish. In addition to seafood, Busan is also famous for milmyeon, a cold wheat noodle dish that is in a refreshing contrast to the city’s spicy seafood offerings. This dish is a beloved local specialty that should not be missed.
Tips to Plan the Best Trip
While exploring local markets cannot be the hardest task, here are some tips to ensure your trip covers everything:Visa planning: It is better to apply for a visa well in advance to make sure that no legal formalities are left incomplete before the trip. Even better, go for service providers like ontrailvisa.co.uk. They offer assistance in visa applications and other legal documentation to ensure your trip is planned smoothly.
Trip assistance: Many agencies offer a food tour in various cities mentioned above, in which tourists get to enjoy the city’s bustling markets, fishing villages, and local food stalls. getting one of these packages will ensure that you don’t miss out on any spots while traveling.
From traditional dishes to modern cuisines, these cities offer something for every type of food lover. No matter which city you begin with, South Korea promises an unforgettable culinary adventure for your taste buds. With the help of service providers like OnTrailVisa, securing your visa to explore these hidden gems has never been easier. So, plan your trip and get ready to experience the authentic tastes of South Korea in 2025.