Global Major Cities Guide

Experience Busan's culinary culture, from its famous street food to specialty Korean dishes.

Sections

Comprehensive Guide to Food and Dining in Busan, South Korea

Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, is a vibrant coastal destination renowned for its fresh seafood, unique local delicacies, and bustling food markets. The city’s food culture is deeply rooted in its maritime heritage, offering visitors a mix of traditional Korean dishes, street food, and modern dining experiences. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate Busan’s food scene, including must-try dishes, dining etiquette, and practical tips.

1. Local Delicacies in Busan

Busan is famous for its seafood and regional specialties that reflect its coastal location. Here are some must-try dishes:

a. Milmyeon (밀면)

What it is: A cold noodle dish made with wheat flour noodles, served in a tangy, icy broth or with a spicy sauce.
Why it’s special: Milmyeon is a Busan specialty, created during the Korean War when wheat flour was more accessible than buckwheat.
Where to try:
- Choryang Milmyeon (초량밀면) near Busan Station.
- Gukje Milmyeon (국제밀면) in Seomyeon.

b. Dwaeji Gukbap (돼지국밥)

What it is: A hearty pork soup served with rice, green onions, and a side of kimchi.
Why it’s special: This dish is a comfort food for locals and is known for its rich, savory flavor.
Where to try:
- Ssangdungi Dwaeji Gukbap (쌍둥이돼지국밥) in Seomyeon.
- Halmae Gukbap (할매국밥) in Beomil-dong.

c. Hoe (회)

What it is: Freshly sliced raw fish or seafood, similar to Japanese sashimi but often served with gochujang (spicy red pepper paste) and ssam (lettuce wraps).
Why it’s special: Busan’s proximity to the sea ensures the freshest seafood.
Where to try:
- Jagalchi Fish Market (자갈치시장) for a wide variety of fresh seafood.
- Millak Raw Fish Town (민락회타운) near Gwangalli Beach.

d. Ssiat Hotteok (씨앗호떡)

What it is: A sweet pancake filled with brown sugar, nuts, and seeds.
Why it’s special: This Busan-style hotteok is a popular street food with a unique nutty flavor.
Where to try: BIFF Square in Nampo-dong.

e. Eomuk (어묵)

What it is: Fish cake skewers served in a light broth.
Why it’s special: Busan is known for its high-quality fish cakes, often enjoyed as a snack or light meal.
Where to try:
- Samjin Eomuk (삼진어묵), a famous fish cake brand with multiple locations.

2. Must-Visit Food Destinations

Busan offers a variety of food markets, restaurants, and street food hubs. Here are some top spots:

a. Jagalchi Fish Market (자갈치시장)

What to expect: Korea’s largest seafood market, where you can buy fresh seafood and have it prepared on-site.
Tips: Bargain politely with vendors and try hoe (raw fish) or grilled shellfish.

b. Gukje Market (국제시장)

What to expect: A sprawling traditional market with food stalls offering Korean street food like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and gimbap (seaweed rice rolls).

c. BIFF Square (BIFF 광장)

What to expect: A lively street food area in Nampo-dong, famous for ssiat hotteok, tteokbokki, and eomuk.

d. Haeundae Market (해운대시장)

What to expect: A smaller market near Haeundae Beach, offering fresh seafood, Korean snacks, and local delicacies.

e. Seomyeon Food Alley (서면 먹자골목)

What to expect: A bustling area filled with restaurants and street food vendors, perfect for sampling a variety of dishes.

3. Dining Etiquette in South Korea

Understanding local dining customs will enhance your experience in Busan. Here are some key points:

a. Table Manners

Wait for the eldest person at the table to start eating before you begin.
Use chopsticks and spoons appropriately (chopsticks for side dishes, spoon for rice and soup).
Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice, as it resembles a funeral ritual.

b. Sharing Culture

Korean meals are often served family-style, with shared side dishes (banchan). Take small portions to ensure everyone gets a share.
Refill others’ drinks before your own, especially for elders or superiors.

c. Paying the Bill

In casual settings, it’s common for one person to pay the entire bill, though friends may take turns treating each other. Splitting the bill is less common but becoming more accepted among younger people.

d. Removing Shoes

In traditional restaurants with floor seating, you’ll need to remove your shoes before entering.

4. Approximate Costs for Meals

Busan offers a range of dining options to suit all budgets:

Street Food: ₩1,000–₩5,000 per item (e.g., ssiat hotteok, eomuk).
Casual Restaurants: ₩6,000–₩12,000 for dishes like dwaeji gukbap or milmyeon.
Mid-Range Restaurants: ₩15,000–₩30,000 for seafood or Korean BBQ.
Fine Dining: ₩50,000+ for upscale restaurants or premium seafood.

5. Practical Tips for Dining in Busan

Language Barrier: Many menus are in Korean, but popular tourist spots often have English translations. Use translation apps if needed.
Cash vs. Card: Most places accept credit cards, but smaller street food vendors may prefer cash.
Spice Levels: Korean food can be spicy. If you’re sensitive to spice, ask for “덜 맵게 해주세요” (deol maepge haejuseyo), meaning “less spicy, please.”
Tipping: Tipping is not customary in South Korea, as service charges are included in the bill.

6. Seasonal Food Experiences

Spring: Try fresh seafood like clams and crabs, which are in season.
Summer: Enjoy cold dishes like milmyeon and naengmyeon (cold buckwheat noodles).
Autumn: Sample grilled mackerel and other fish during the harvest season.
Winter: Warm up with hot soups like dwaeji gukbap or spicy seafood stews.

7. Cultural Insights

Community Spirit: Dining in Korea is a communal experience. Sharing food and drinks fosters a sense of togetherness.
Respect for Elders: Always serve elders first and use two hands when pouring drinks or passing items.
Drinking Culture: If invited to drink soju (Korean liquor), it’s polite to accept at least one glass. Hold your glass with two hands when receiving a drink from someone older.

8. Conclusion

Busan’s food scene is a delightful mix of traditional flavors, fresh seafood, and vibrant street food. By exploring local markets, trying regional specialties, and respecting dining customs, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich culinary culture. Whether you’re enjoying a bowl of dwaeji gukbap in a humble eatery or savoring fresh hoe by the sea, Busan offers unforgettable dining experiences for every palate and budget.