Seoul

1. Overview of Traditional Korean Cuisine

Traditional Korean cuisine, or "Hansik" (한식), is characterized by its balance of flavors (spicy, sweet, salty, sour, and bitter), use of fermented ingredients, and emphasis on communal dining. Meals typically include a main dish, rice, soup, and an array of side dishes called "banchan" (반찬). Key ingredients include rice, vegetables, meats, seafood, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and fermented condiments like gochujang (red chili paste) and doenjang (soybean paste).

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2. Must-Try Traditional Korean Dishes

Here are some iconic dishes you should try in Seoul:

Main Dishes

1. Kimchi Jjigae (김치찌개)

   • A spicy stew made with aged kimchi, tofu, pork, and vegetables.
   • Cost: ₩6,000–₩10,000 ($4.50–$7.50).
   • Where to try: Hangaram Kimchi Jjigae in Jongno.

2. Bibimbap (비빔밥)

   • A mixed rice dish topped with vegetables, a fried egg, and gochujang.
   • Cost: ₩7,000–₩12,000 ($5.50–$9).
   • Where to try: Gogung in Insadong.

3. Samgyeopsal (삼겹살)

   • Grilled pork belly served with lettuce wraps, garlic, and ssamjang (spicy dipping sauce).
   • Cost: ₩12,000–₩18,000 ($9–$14) per person.
   • Where to try: Maple Tree House in Itaewon.

4. Bulgogi (불고기)

   • Marinated beef cooked on a grill or in a pan, often served with rice.
   • Cost: ₩10,000–₩20,000 ($7.50–$15).
   • Where to try: Myeongdong Bulgogi in Myeongdong.

5. Samgyetang (삼계탕)

   • A nourishing chicken soup with ginseng, jujubes, and sticky rice stuffed inside the chicken.
   • Cost: ₩12,000–₩18,000 ($9–$14).
   • Where to try: Tosokchon Samgyetang near Gyeongbokgung Palace.

Street Food

1. Tteokbokki (떡볶이)

   • Spicy rice cakes in a sweet and spicy sauce.
   • Cost: ₩3,000–₩5,000 ($2.50–$4).
   • Where to try: Gwangjang Market or Myeongdong Street Food Stalls.

2. Hotteok (호떡)

   • Sweet pancakes filled with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts.
   • Cost: ₩1,000–₩2,000 ($0.75–$1.50).
   • Where to try: Namdaemun Market.

3. Gimbap (김밥)

   • Seaweed rice rolls filled with vegetables, egg, and sometimes meat or tuna.
   • Cost: ₩2,000–₩4,000 ($1.50–$3).
   • Where to try: Chungmu Gimbap in Myeongdong.

Side Dishes (Banchan)

• Kimchi (김치): Fermented cabbage or radish with chili paste.
• Japchae (잡채): Stir-fried glass noodles with vegetables.
• Kongnamul (콩나물): Seasoned soybean sprouts.
• Banchan is usually complimentary and refillable at most restaurants.

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3. Dining Etiquette in Korea

Understanding Korean dining etiquette will enhance your experience:

1. Communal Dining: Many dishes are shared, so don’t be surprised if a large pot or plate is placed in the center of the table.
2. Chopsticks and Spoons: Use chopsticks for side dishes and a spoon for rice and soup. Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice, as it resembles a funeral ritual.
3. Wait for Elders: It’s customary to wait for the eldest person at the table to start eating first.
4. Refills: Banchan is usually refillable, so don’t hesitate to ask for more.
5. Paying the Bill: Payment is typically made at the counter, not at the table. Splitting the bill is uncommon, so one person usually pays, and others reimburse later.

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4. Recommended Dining Locations

Seoul is home to countless restaurants, markets, and food streets. Here are some top spots for authentic Korean food:

Traditional Restaurants

• Jirisan (지리산): Known for its traditional set meals (hansik jeongsik). Located in Insadong.
• Baedongbaji (배동바지): A hanok-style restaurant offering authentic Korean dishes in Bukchon Hanok Village.

Markets

1. Gwangjang Market (광장시장):

   • Famous for bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), tteokbokki, and gimbap.
   • Address: 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu.
   • Hours: 9:00 AM–10:00 PM.

2. Namdaemun Market (남대문시장):

   • Great for street food like hotteok and kalguksu (knife-cut noodles).
   • Address: 21 Namdaemunsijang 4-gil, Jung-gu.
   • Hours: 10:00 AM–10:00 PM.

3. Tongin Market (통인시장):

   • Known for its "dosirak café," where you can create your own lunchbox using market tokens.
   • Address: 18 Jahamun-ro 15-gil, Jongno-gu.
   • Hours: 11:00 AM–4:00 PM.

Food Streets

• Myeongdong Street Food Alley: A bustling area with a variety of street food options.
• Hongdae Food Street: Popular among young people for trendy and affordable eats.
• Insadong: Offers traditional tea houses and restaurants serving classic Korean meals.

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5. Cost Estimates

Dining in Seoul can range from budget-friendly to high-end:

• Street Food: ₩1,000–₩5,000 ($0.75–$4) per item.
• Casual Restaurants: ₩6,000–₩15,000 ($4.50–$11) per meal.
• Mid-Range Restaurants: ₩15,000–₩30,000 ($11–$22) per person.
• Fine Dining: ₩50,000+ ($37+) per person.

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6. Practical Tips for Enjoying Korean Food in Seoul

1. Language Barrier: Many restaurants have picture menus or English translations, but learning a few Korean phrases (e.g., "이거 주세요" – "This one, please") can be helpful.
2. Spice Levels: Korean food can be spicy. If you prefer mild flavors, ask for "덜 맵게 해주세요" (deol maepge haejuseyo – "Please make it less spicy").
3. Cash vs. Card: Most places accept credit cards, but street food vendors and small eateries may prefer cash.
4. Peak Hours: Popular restaurants can have long waits during lunch (12:00 PM–1:30 PM) and dinner (6:00 PM–8:00 PM). Arrive early to avoid crowds.
5. Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Korea, as service charges are usually included in the bill.

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Seoul’s food scene is a delightful mix of tradition and innovation. By exploring its markets, restaurants, and street food stalls, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Korean culture and flavors. Enjoy your culinary adventure in Seoul!