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Comprehensive Guide to Korean Cuisine in Busan, South Korea

Busan, South Korea's second-largest city, is a coastal gem known for its vibrant food scene, which blends traditional Korean flavors with fresh seafood and unique local specialties. As a port city, Busan offers a distinct culinary experience that sets it apart from other regions in Korea. Below is a detailed guide to help you explore Busan’s food culture, including must-try dishes, dining etiquette, and where to find the best eats.

1. Popular Dishes Unique to Busan

a. Milmyeon (밀면) – Cold Wheat Noodles

Description: A refreshing dish of chewy wheat noodles served in a chilled, tangy broth or with a spicy sauce. It’s a local alternative to naengmyeon (cold buckwheat noodles) and is perfect for Busan’s hot summers.
Approximate Cost: ₩6,000–₩8,000 ($4.50–$6.00 USD)
Where to Try:
- Choryang Milmyeon (초량밀면): A famous spot near Busan Station.
- Gukje Milmyeon (국제밀면): Located near Gukje Market, known for its authentic flavors.

b. Dwaeji Gukbap (돼지국밥) – Pork Soup with Rice

Description: A hearty dish of pork broth served with rice, green onions, and a variety of condiments like salted shrimp and chili paste. It’s a comfort food staple in Busan.
Approximate Cost: ₩7,000–₩10,000 ($5.50–$7.50 USD)
Where to Try:
- Ssangdungi Dwaeji Gukbap (쌍둥이돼지국밥): Located in the Seomyeon area, this restaurant is a local favorite.
- Halmae Gukbap (할매국밥): Near Beomil-dong, known for its rich broth.

c. Ssiat Hotteok (씨앗호떡) – Seed-Stuffed Pancake

Description: A sweet and crispy pancake filled with brown sugar, nuts, and seeds. This street food is a must-try in Busan.
Approximate Cost: ₩1,500–₩2,000 ($1.00–$1.50 USD)
Where to Try:
- BIFF Square (BIFF 광장): The most famous spot for ssiat hotteok, with several vendors offering their own variations.

d. Eomuk (어묵) – Fish Cake

Description: Busan is famous for its fish cakes, which are made from ground fish paste and served in various forms, such as skewers in hot broth or fried snacks.
Approximate Cost: ₩500–₩2,000 per skewer ($0.40–$1.50 USD)
Where to Try:
- Samjin Eomuk (삼진어묵): A historic fish cake brand with a flagship store in Yeongdo.
- Bupyeong Kkangtong Market (부평깡통시장): A great place to sample freshly made eomuk.

e. Hoe (회) – Raw Fish

Description: Freshly sliced raw fish, often served with ssamjang (spicy dipping sauce), garlic, and lettuce wraps. Busan’s proximity to the sea ensures the freshest seafood.
Approximate Cost: ₩20,000–₩50,000 ($15–$40 USD) per person, depending on the type of fish.
Where to Try:
- Jagalchi Fish Market (자갈치시장): The largest seafood market in Korea, where you can choose your fish and have it prepared on-site.
- Millak Raw Fish Town (민락회타운): A multi-story building near Gwangalli Beach with numerous hoe restaurants.

f. Dongnae Pajeon (동래파전) – Green Onion Pancake

Description: A savory pancake made with green onions, seafood, and a batter of rice and wheat flour. It’s a traditional dish from the Dongnae district of Busan.
Approximate Cost: ₩10,000–₩15,000 ($7.50–$12 USD)
Where to Try:
- Dongnae Halmae Pajeon (동래할매파전): A historic restaurant specializing in this dish.

2. Notable Food Markets and Streets

a. Jagalchi Fish Market (자갈치시장)

Why Visit: The heart of Busan’s seafood culture, offering everything from live fish to dried seafood. You can dine at the market’s restaurants or have your seafood prepared fresh.
Location: Near Nampo-dong.
Tips: Bargain politely when buying seafood and ask vendors for recommendations.

b. Gukje Market (국제시장)

Why Visit: A sprawling market with street food stalls offering local snacks like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), eomuk, and ssiat hotteok.
Location: Nampo-dong area.
Tips: Try a variety of small dishes to sample the diversity of Busan’s street food.

c. BIFF Square (BIFF 광장)

Why Visit: A bustling area filled with street food vendors, including the famous ssiat hotteok and tteokbokki.
Location: Nampo-dong.
Tips: Visit in the evening for the liveliest atmosphere.

d. Bupyeong Kkangtong Market (부평깡통시장)

Why Visit: Known for its night market, this is a great spot to try Busan’s street food and snacks.
Location: Near Gukje Market.
Tips: Bring cash, as many vendors don’t accept credit cards.

3. Cultural Dining Etiquette in Busan

Sharing is Caring: Korean meals are often served family-style, with shared dishes in the center of the table. Use the communal utensils provided to serve yourself.
Respect Elders: Wait for the eldest person at the table to start eating before you begin.
Chopstick Etiquette: Don’t stick chopsticks upright in your rice, as it resembles a funeral ritual.
Drinking Culture: If someone pours you a drink, hold your glass with both hands as a sign of respect. When pouring for others, use both hands as well.
No Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Korea, as service charges are included in the bill.
Slurping is Okay: It’s acceptable to slurp noodles, as it shows you’re enjoying the meal.

4. Notable Restaurants in Busan

a. Boksoondoga Makgeolli Brewery (복순도가)

Specialty: Traditional Korean rice wine (makgeolli) paired with local dishes.
Location: Haeundae area.
Why Visit: A great place to experience Busan’s take on Korean alcohol culture.

b. The Bay 101

Specialty: Upscale seafood dining with stunning views of Haeundae Beach.
Location: Haeundae.
Why Visit: Perfect for a special night out with fresh seafood and a modern ambiance.

c. Amisan (아미산)

Specialty: Traditional Korean set meals (hansik) with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
Location: Near Jagalchi Market.
Why Visit: A great spot to experience authentic Korean fine dining.

5. Tips for Exploring Busan’s Food Scene

Timing: Many restaurants close between lunch and dinner service (around 3–5 PM), so plan your meals accordingly.
Language: While English menus are available in tourist areas, learning a few Korean phrases (e.g., "이거 주세요" – "This, please") can be helpful.
Cash vs. Card: Most places accept credit cards, but smaller street food vendors may only take cash.
Seafood Freshness: If you’re unsure about seafood, ask vendors or restaurant staff for recommendations—they’re usually happy to help.

Busan’s food scene is a delightful mix of traditional Korean flavors and fresh coastal ingredients. Whether you’re indulging in street food at BIFF Square or savoring a bowl of dwaeji gukbap in a local eatery, the city offers a culinary adventure that’s both delicious and culturally enriching. Bon appétit—or as they say in Korea, 잘 먹겠습니다 (jal meokgetseumnida)!