Let’s face it, you see those honey butter-coated peanuts or those tteokbokki potato chips everywhere and you start to get tired of that once addictive taste; It’s not even real honey or butter. Are these snacks even representative of what Korea has to offer in terms of sweet treats? We don’t mean bingsu either.

Just ask any ahjumma or ahjussi what are the snacks they think are representative of their rich Korean culture and history. We have an inkling it might be on this list of 8 Traditional Korean Snacks That Are Better Than Your Honey Butter Chips. These snacks can be found at most Korean traditional markets and some at more popular tourist destinations like Myeong-Dong.

Photo Credit: Living Nomads

DALGEONA – KOREAN BURNT SUGAR LOLLY

We’ve all seen the ahjummas on the streets of Myeong-Dong and Dongdae-Mun stirring a small skillet over a flame while students, children and couples look eagerly. If you walk over and take a closer look, you’ll find Dalgeona of all shapes displayed on styrofoam boards, awaiting their next lucky recipient.

Dalgeona is made with sugar and baking soda, melted then poured and pressed with various shape cutters. It’s a fun street candy where children challenge their friends to cut out the shape that has been pressed. It has a caramel flavour with a toasted aftertaste, melting quickly on your tongue!

Photo Credit: Kimchimari

DASIK – TEA COOKIES

Dasik are one-bite pressed cookies made with fried grain powders such as rice or soybean flour. They sometimes contain oriental medicinal herbs, flower pollen and honey, but in modern days, more popular flavours would include matcha and black sesame. These bite-sized babies are usually accompanied by traditional Korean tea.

Did you know Dasik was introduced to Korea from India? This stemmed from India’s Buddhist beliefs and the tea culture that came along with it. 

Photo Credit: Flickr

GANGJEONG – KOREAN SWEET RICE PUFFS

Coming in a spectrum of vibrant colours, Gangjeong are often served during important festivals and events such as birthdays, weddings and New Year’s. These meringue-like morsels resemble giant Rice Krispies, bearing a chewy glutinous rice flour center while coated in various kinds of toppings. Such toppings include sesame seeds, rice puffs and coloured nuts and powders.

Ganjeong has a syrup-like taste that is offset by their nut or puffed rice coatings. Their chewy, puffed texture results from it being first steeped in room temperature oil and left to fry as the oil temperature is increased.

Photo Credit: Maangchi

JEONGGWA – HONEY-BOILED FRUITS

Jeonggwa is a Korean confection is fruit or root-based, having the various bits boiled in honey and then coated with all kinds of crunchy grains. They sometimes have similar texture to jellies and soft candy.

The most popular kinds are beetroot, lotus root and various kinds of citrus. They are then usually coated with sesame seeds. The honey adds sweetness to the earthiness of the roots and the sesame adds a nice crunch. These could be your new soft candy replacement in Korea!

Photo Credit: SaungKorea

YAKGWA – HONEY COOKIES

Also eaten mostly during important occasions like birthdays and celebrations, Yakgwa is as delicious as it is meaningful to traditional Korean culture. These chewy golden-brown cookies are made from honey, sesame oil and ginger then deep-fried. They aren’t the healthiest but they are only served once or twice a month so, it’s okay to make the most of it.

The cookies are super sweet, flavourful and addictive. One bite will have you hooked and craving a whole jar. They might possibly re-define the meaning of finger-licking good.

Photo Credit: Kimchi People

YAKSIK – STICKY RICE CAKES

Traditionally, Yaksik is a sticky rice cake filled with more oriental ingredients such as chestnuts and other dried fruits, as well as honey. Yak means “medicine” in Korean, while Sik means “food”. This is because honey is believed to be a food that is good for longevity, so a lot of these traditional snacks are honey-based.

In more modern days, there are more innovative shapes and flavours to Yaksik. They are used to mimic popular toys and Korean characters, featuring flavours such as cheese or cranberries to give a natural colouring to the cakes.

Photo Credit: WeHeartIt

TTEOK – KOREAN RICE CAKES

Tteok is probably the most well-known snack here on this list but don’t mistake this for tteokbokki, even if they are similar. Tteok is a broader category of rice cakes while Tteokbokki is a savoury dish made from plain tteok. Try saying that really fast.

Sweet tteok are traditional Korean rice cakes that are either stuffed with fillings or coated in roasted bean powders (injeolmi). They have a similar texture to Japanese mochi but are a little less soft. Tteok is enjoyed by Korean families during New Year’s and birthdays, served up with an array of vibrant colours.

Photo Credit: VisitKorea

YEOT-GANJEONG – NUT CANDY BARS

Similar to Ganjeong but cut into neat little squares is Yeot-Ganjeong. Yeot refers to the fermented starch-filled grains that are boiled, turning into malt. The malt is then topped with grains, nuts and dried fruits and cut into squares.

It has a similar texture to candy or granola bars, just without the artificial sweeteners and crazy ingredients. The most popular flavours for Yeot-Ganjeong are the ones coated in black sesame seeds or peanuts.

Yes, Seoul is definitely a big hub for spicy noodles, minimalist cafes and quirky restaurants full of dishes that are to-die-for. However, these yummy plates might not be the most cost-effective – plus if cafes are popular, you might need to wait in line for a really long time before you even get a whiff of your food.

Not to fear – South Korea has an abundance of convenience stores that will satisfy your food cravings. Tteokbokki? Check. Ramen? Yup. Fun, quirky ice creams and snacks? Definitely. Check out this guide to see to get on your next convenience store raid in South Korea!

Photo Credit: Instagram

BAKED EGGS

Probably the most versatile item on this list, Baked Eggs are a must-get on your convenience store raids in Korea. They are a great light breakfast in the morning or can go with any home-cooked meals such as ramen or kimchi fried rice.

What we love is how they’re like wobblier ramen eggs with that nice ooey-gooey yolk that’s super satisfying to eat.

Photo Credit: Instagram

BONG BONG

You may recognize this iconic white grape drink by its cute name and packaging. Well-loved for its sweet and refreshing flavour with crunchy aloe bits, Bong Bong is super kid-friendly and an all-round delicious drink.

However, did you know they have an ice cream version? Like a frozen can of Bong Bong, this icy treat is perfect for the summer!

Photo Credit: Instagram

BUNGEO BBANG – CARP/FISH BUN

This fish-shaped bread is an iconic street food in South Korea but you can also get these carp buns in any nearby convenience stores! These fun little morsels can be filled with all sorts of yummy fillings – think ice cream, red bean and chocolate!

Photo Credit: Instagram

CHOCOPIE

One of South Korea’s favourite chocolate snacks has to be Chocopie. This chocolate covered whoopie-pie dessert is traditionally filled with fluffy marshmallow. However, you may be able to chance upon some fun flavours they have such as banana or strawberry jam.

CUP COFFEE

We don’t really know how Korean convenience store coffees are so good, but we aren’t complaining. They have all sorts of brews from Machiattos to Mochas and Nitro Cold Brews. They’re a great way to start your morning or a quick pick-me-up in the afternoon.

Photo Credit: Instagram

CUP RAMEN

This item needs no introduction as it appears everywhere – be it in Korean dramas or variety shows. Our favourites are the Samyang Spicy Chicken Noodles Carbo Version, Shin Ramen Black and the classic Shin Ramen. People buy cartons of these back home and it isn’t hard to understand why the moment you taste its addictive soup and chewy noodles!

Photo Credit: Instagram

DOSIRAK – KOREAN BENTO BOXES

Feeling famished? Pick up one of these Korean Bento Boxes known as “Dosirak”. They’ll contain a bunch of traditional Korean side dishes (banchan), some meat, and rice or noodles. The possibilities are endless with this box.

A big plus is that they’re super affordable, so if your wallet’s feeling a bit lighter than you’d like, head to your nearest mart and grab one of these microwaveable bentos!

Photo Credit: Instagram

FLAVOURED ALMONDS

This is a familiar snack for many Korean snack lovers. What some don’t know is that the honey-butter almonds they know and love come in a myriad of different flavours as well. There’s Yogurt, Wasabi, Spicy Chicken, Cookies & Cream and even Tiramisu – there’s flavour for everyone.

Photo Credit: Instagram

HOT BAR – SKEWERED MEATS

Hot Bars are simply different kinds of meat or pastes on a skewer that you can pop into a convenience store microwave to enjoy in a matter of seconds. These meats can range from cocktail sausages to crab sticks and spicy beef. They’re great on their own but they also pair really well with instant ramen!

Photo Credit: Instagram

INSTANT BULGOGI

Korea is really good with their range of instant food so keep an eye out for their Instant Bulgogi. They come in pork, chicken and beef and usually come with a medley of veggies as well! It makes for a great meal if you pair it with some rice and soup!

Photo Credit: Instagram

INSTANT TTEOKBOKKI

If you can’t seem to find a place with affordable tteokbokki, you can always turn to the convenience stores that sell some you can microwave. They’re still quite delicious and tastes just like the real thing! They even have one that comes with cheese.

Photo Credit: Instagram

JOLLY PONG BUCKWHEAT CRISPS

If you’re looking for an alternative and more unconventional snack, Jolly Pong might be something you’d like! They’re buckwheat crisps and have a nice earthy smoky taste. They’re also extra crunchy, making them super satisfying to eat.

Photo Credit: Instagram

MELONA ICE CREAM

Despite its name, Melona doesn’t just have melon-flavoured popsicles. They come in a variety of vibrant fruit flavours such as peach, banana, strawberry and coconut. These summery fruit popsicles are popular all-year-round and are a must-get when in Seoul!

Photo Credit: Instagram

SAMGAK KIMBAP

“Samgak” means triangle so these are essentially triangle-shaped Korean rice rolls. These little packs are perfect for a quick meal on-the-go. It’s fun to scan the shelves to see what flavours of kimbap they have – luncheon meat, pork floss, spicy chicken and even cheese!

Photo Credit: Instagram

SUNBAEK UYU MILK BUN

This famous snow-white bun is highly-raved about for its fluffy texture and super delicious and milky filling, hence the name Milk Bun. Pro Tip: If you put these in the fridge before eating, it’s like eating a bun filled with vanilla ice-cream!

Photo Credit: Instagram

SAMYANG SPICY CHICKEN GYOZA

You’ve heard of the ultra spicy noodle challenge, now try the dumpling spin-off! Don’t be fooled by its tame exterior for each dumpling skin hides a fiery spice that will leave you either running far away or craving for more! It also comes in the Carbo version (less spicy and cheesier).

Photo Credit: Instagram

WATERMELON “SUBAK” BAR

Cutely shaped and coloured to look like a slice of watermelon, the “Subak Bar” is the most perfect summer ice cream to hold around. You’ll see students hold this rather instagrammable bar of ice cream outside convenience stores, snapping pictures of themselves with this icy treat!

Photo Credit: Instagram

YOGURT JELLY/GUMMIES

Yogurt snacks are the Korean equivalent to the love for all things melon-flavoured in Japan. Try these addictive Yogurt Jellies that taste similar to Yakult or Vitagen in a chewy gummy! They’re strangely delicious and before you know it, you’ll be finishing your packet.

Photo Credit: Instagram

YOGURT MOCHI

To conclude our list, you have to try this Yogurt Mochi. These sweet puffs are super-bouncy and chewy mochi filled with a yogurt-flavoured cream inside. They’re super satisfying to chew and pull apart to eat, with a sweet milky flavour!

Cafe hopping in Seoul can take a toll, especially on your wallet. Despite having a plethora of cafes to patronize, Seoul is also home to several traditional markets that provide an abundance of tantalizing dishes well-loved by locals – and possibly you, once you try them too!

It may be a little confusing to navigate through traditional market food because dish names are all in Korean and sometimes, menus may not have English in them. Don’t worry though, because we’ve got your back with this list of 10 Traditional Market Foods to Try On Your Next Trip to Korea.

BINDAETTEOK – MUNG BEAN PANCAKES

Mung bean pancakes are a very popular market food in Korea. You’ll see many middle-aged ladies with a large pan of oil, deep-frying pancakes with various fillings to a crispy golden-brown disc.

Bindaetteok is made from ground-up mung beans, rice, kimchi, various kinds of vegetables, pork, eggs and several Korean seasonings. They are packed full of flavour and every single bite will be different and new. Dip them into a little soy sauce or spicy pepper paste and they’ll be a must-get every time you head to Korea.

Photo Credit: Living Nomads

HOTTEOK – KOREAN SWEET PANCAKES

One of Korea’s most raved-about street food can be found in almost every traditional market. These tasty honey-filled pancakes are a simple sweet treat that should be reserved for cheat days because it is extremely indulgent.

Hotteok dough is filled with different fillings – traditionally honey or brown sugar – and then slapped onto a pan of hot oil, fried to perfection. It’s best eaten when warm so you can see the fillings ooze out of the crispy yet chewy dough. It’s a simple fact – Korean pancakes are better than any other pancakes.

Photo Credit: Blogspot

JEON – KOREAN MIXED PANCAKES

Yes, we aren’t done talking about pancakes. Another kind of pancake you’ll find commonplace in Korean markets would be the various kinds of jeon. These pancakes could range from the standard potato or kimchi pancakes you find in restaurants, to various vegetables and seafoods mixed in a batter and flattened on an oil-filled grill.

Similar to Bindaetteok, freshly-fried jeon are best enjoyed with a side of soy-sauce or spicy pepper paste. They are an umami-filled simple market food that will keep you coming back for more.

Photo Credit: Pinterest

MANDU – KOREAN STEAMED DUMPLINGS

If you see little balls sitting atop wooden baskets or large steamers, they’re probably Korean Mandu. Mandu are traditional korean dumplings filled with pork, various vegetables and occasionally, some glass noodles.

Most dumplings are made fresh and then steamed till their skin is translucent, giving hungry customers a sneak peek into the fillings hidden inside. If you prefer a spicy kick, try the kimchi mandu. They don’t even need any sauce accompanying them because they’re just so flavourful.

Photo Credit: Instagram

KALGUKSU – KOREAN KNIFE-CUT NOODLES

Following the mandu are these handmade noodles that normally come with a few mandu alongside it. Kalguksu is a light yet flavourful noodle soup that is served with a side of minced garlic, scallions, chilli flakes, a sprinkle of seaweed and sesame oil. These condiments are used to add extra flavour to match the noodles to your liking.

For extra flavour, add some vinegar to add a tangy edge to the soup. A bite of the thick, silky noodles and a bite of a kimchi mandu makes for satisfaction.

Photo Credit: Instagram

MARINATED SEAFOOD

Especially in sea-side regions like Busan, fresh marinated seafood is extremely popular among the local patrons of traditional markets. Various kinds of seafood – crabs, mussels, octopus and fish – are marinated in all kinds of sauces ranging from sweet soy sauce to spicy pepper paste.

Most well-known and loved is ganjang-gaejang which is crabs marinated in soy sauce. The sweet-savoury combination of crab is lip-smackingly delicious – especially if you’re a fan of crab roe. The soy sauce marinade will meld with the savoury roe, making it a flavour explosion.

MAYAK-GIMBAP – “NARCOTIC” RICE ROLLS

Mayak means drug in Korean and the rice rolls that are coined “mayak-kimbap” are just as addictive as the most potent drugs. They are seemingly simple – just seasoned rice rolls with julienned carrot and picked radish or cucumber, brushed with sesame oil – but once you have one, it’s impossible to stop at just one roll.

These addictive rice rolls occasionally come with a side of hot mustard sauce in case you wanted a bit of a punch.

TTEOKBOKKI – SPICY RICE CAKES

If you haven’t tried tteokbokki on your trips to Korea, you are sorely missing out on one of Korea’s most famous street foods. Tteokbokki can be found in almost every corner of Korea, whether in the traditional markets or in sheltered carts on road-sides.

If you’re a fan of spice, these rice cakes will be right up your alley. They are coated in a spicy yet sweet gravy made from Korean spicy pepper paste. Occasionally, scallions and assorted fishcakes known as eomuk will be thrown into the mix as well.

Photo Credit: Instagram

SOONDAE – KOREAN BLOOD SAUSAGE

Admittedly, this dish isn’t for everyone – especially if you can’t fathom the thought of eating animal blood. However, it is still a pretty popular local dish that is packed with flavour.

Soondae is made with cows or pigs’ blood and glutinous rice or glass noodles. The sausage is traditionally served with a spicy gravy, with some salt or in a hearty stew. The spicy sauce might be the easiest way to eat soondae for first-time eaters as it covers the slightly gamey taste of the sausage.

SANNAKJI & YUKHOE – LIVE OCTOPUS OR BEEF TARTARE

Last on our list is the raw foods you can find in Korean markets – not for the faint-hearted, but definitely worth a try.

Made viral with several videos on the internet is sannakji, which is Korean-style live octopus – still wriggling around on your plate and on your tongue as you consume it. Though simply dressed in sesame oil and soy sauce, it is rather difficult to eat. Just make sure you chew it thoroughly before swallowing. It will definitely be an unforgettable experience.

Another kind of raw food you can find would be yukhoe – marinated raw beef. This indulgent beef sashimi is usually served with a raw egg yolk over the top, and sometimes with a salad beneath it. Similar to sannakji, it is also dressed very simply with sesame oil and soy sauce.