Busan

1. Popular Seafood Dishes in Busan

Busan’s seafood offerings are diverse, ranging from raw delicacies to hearty stews. Here are some must-try dishes:

a. Hoe (회) – Sliced Raw Fish

• Description: Similar to Japanese sashimi, Busan’s hoe is served fresh, often with a spicy gochujang-based dipping sauce (cho-gochujang) and a variety of side dishes.
• Popular Types: Flounder (광어, gwang-eo), rockfish (우럭, u-reok), and octopus (문어, mun-eo).
• Where to Try: Jagalchi Market or specialized hoe restaurants along Gwangalli Beach.

b. Nakji Bokkeum (낙지볶음) – Spicy Stir-Fried Octopus

• Description: Tender octopus stir-fried in a fiery red chili paste sauce with vegetables. It’s spicy, savory, and pairs well with rice.
• Where to Try: Local restaurants in Seomyeon or Nampo-dong.

c. Eomuk (어묵) – Fish Cake

• Description: A popular street food made from ground fish paste, shaped into skewers, and served in a warm, savory broth.
• Where to Try: Busan’s famous Gukje Market or street vendors near Jagalchi Market.

d. Dwaeji Gukbap with Seafood (돼지국밥 + 해산물)

• Description: While traditionally a pork soup, some Busan restaurants offer seafood-infused variations of this hearty dish.
• Where to Try: Local eateries in the Beomil-dong area.

e. Grilled Shellfish (조개구이, Jogae Gui)

• Description: A communal dining experience where clams, scallops, and other shellfish are grilled at your table. Often served with melted cheese or spicy sauces.
• Where to Try: Millak Raw Fish Town or beachfront restaurants in Haeundae.

f. Agujjim (아구찜) – Braised Monkfish

• Description: A spicy, savory dish made with monkfish, bean sprouts, and a rich chili-based sauce. It’s a Busan specialty.
• Where to Try: Restaurants in Nampo-dong or Jagalchi Market.

g. Live Octopus (산낙지, Sannakji)

• Description: A daring dish where small octopus tentacles are served raw and still moving. Dip in sesame oil for a unique texture and flavor.
• Where to Try: Jagalchi Market or hoe restaurants.

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2. Best Seafood Markets and Restaurants

Busan is home to some of the most famous seafood markets and restaurants in South Korea. Here are the top spots:

a. Jagalchi Market

• Overview: The largest seafood market in South Korea, offering everything from live fish to dried seafood. You can purchase fresh seafood and have it prepared on-site at one of the market’s restaurants.
• What to Try: Hoe (raw fish), live octopus, and grilled shellfish.
• Tips: Prices are negotiable, so don’t hesitate to bargain. Visit early in the morning for the freshest catch.

b. Millak Raw Fish Town

• Overview: A multi-story building near Gwangalli Beach filled with restaurants specializing in raw fish. You can enjoy your meal with stunning ocean views.
• What to Try: Sashimi platters, grilled fish, and seafood stews.
• Price Range: Mid to high-end, depending on the type of fish.

c. Haeundae Market

• Overview: A bustling market near Haeundae Beach with a mix of street food vendors and seafood stalls.
• What to Try: Grilled eel, seafood pancakes, and eomuk skewers.
• Tips: Perfect for a quick, casual seafood experience.

d. Gukje Market

• Overview: A traditional market offering a variety of street foods, including seafood snacks like eomuk and fried squid.
• What to Try: Affordable seafood street food.

e. The Bay 101

• Overview: A modern dining complex near Haeundae Beach with upscale seafood restaurants.
• What to Try: Premium seafood platters and fusion dishes.
• Price Range: High-end.

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3. Price Ranges for Seafood in Busan

• Street Food: ₩1,000–₩5,000 per item (e.g., eomuk skewers, fried squid).
• Casual Restaurants: ₩10,000–₩30,000 per person (e.g., grilled fish, seafood stews).
• Mid-Range Restaurants: ₩30,000–₩70,000 per person (e.g., hoe platters, grilled shellfish).
• High-End Dining: ₩70,000+ per person (e.g., premium sashimi, seafood buffets).

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4. Local Dining Customs and Etiquette

Understanding local dining customs will enhance your experience in Busan:

a. Sharing is Common

• Most seafood dishes are served family-style, meant to be shared among the group. Don’t hesitate to dig in!

b. Use of Chopsticks

• Chopsticks are the primary utensil. Practice your skills beforehand if you’re not familiar.

c. Drinking Culture

• Seafood meals are often accompanied by soju (Korean distilled liquor) or makgeolli (rice wine). It’s polite to pour drinks for others and accept with both hands.

d. Freshness is Key

• Many restaurants display live seafood in tanks. You can often choose your meal directly from the tank.

e. Removing Shoes

• Some traditional restaurants require you to remove your shoes before entering. Look for shoe racks near the entrance.

f. No Tipping

• Tipping is not customary in South Korea. Service charges are typically included in the bill.

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5. Tips for Navigating Seafood Options in Busan

• Learn Basic Korean Phrases: While many vendors and restaurant staff speak some English, knowing phrases like “얼마예요?” (eolma-yeyo? – How much is it?) or “추천해주세요” (chucheon-hae-juseyo – Please recommend something) can be helpful.
• Ask for Recommendations: Locals are proud of their seafood and will gladly suggest the best dishes or restaurants.
• Check for Freshness: Look for clear eyes and firm flesh when selecting fish at markets.
• Be Adventurous: Don’t shy away from trying unique dishes like sannakji (live octopus) or spicy monkfish stew.
• Visit During Festivals: The Busan Jagalchi Festival (held in October) is a great time to experience the city’s seafood culture with special events and tastings.

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6. Unique Cultural Traditions

• Jagalchi Ajumma Culture: The market is famously run by “ajummas” (middle-aged women) who are known for their no-nonsense attitude and expertise in seafood. They may seem brusque but are incredibly knowledgeable and helpful.
• Seafood and Beach Pairing: Many locals enjoy eating seafood while overlooking the ocean, a tradition that enhances the dining experience.

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By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to explore and enjoy Busan’s incredible seafood scene. Whether you’re indulging in fresh hoe at Jagalchi Market or savoring grilled shellfish by the beach, Busan’s seafood culture is sure to leave a lasting impression. Bon appétit—or as they say in Korea, 잘 먹겠습니다 (jal meokgetseumnida)!