Korean Vegan Street Food: Must-Try Snacks and Where to Find Them (2024)

South Korea, a country renowned for its vibrant street food culture, has embraced the vegan culinary scene with open arms. As a vegan traveler in South Korea, you can indulge in a wide array of delectable street snacks that cater to your dietary preferences. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the world of vegan Korean street food, highlighting the most popular snacks and where travelers can find them in various cities.

Seoul: The Vegan Street Food Capital

Seoul, the bustling capital of South Korea, is a haven for vegan street food enthusiasts. Explore these must-try vegan street snacks:

1. Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes): Tteokbokki is a Korean street food classic, and you can find vegan versions in various markets. The spicy, chewy rice cakes are often cooked in a flavorful gochujang sauce, providing a perfect blend of sweet and spicy.
2. Hotteok (Sweet Pancakes): Hotteok vendors line the streets of Seoul. These sweet pancakes are typically filled with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts. Many vendors now offer vegan versions, ensuring you can enjoy this delicious treat guilt-free.
3. Bungeoppang (Fish-Shaped Bread): This adorable fish-shaped bread is a popular street snack. While traditionally made with dairy and eggs, some vendors now offer vegan options filled with red bean paste or other sweet fillings.

Gyeongju: Vegan Delights Amidst History

In Gyeongju, a city steeped in history, you’ll find vegan-friendly street food options that complement its cultural treasures:

1. Bindaetteok (Mung Bean Pancakes): Bindaetteok stalls are a common sight in Gyeongju. These savory pancakes, made from mung beans and vegetables, are often vegan by default. Dip them in soy sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
2. Hwangnam-ppang (Red Bean Bread): While Hwangnam-ppang is traditionally made with dairy, some vendors in Gyeongju now offer vegan versions filled with sweet red bean paste. It’s a delightful snack to enjoy while exploring the city’s historic sites.

Busan: Coastal Vegan Street Fare

In Busan, a coastal city known for its seafood, you can still enjoy vegan street snacks inspired by the sea:

1. Gimbap (Seaweed Rice Rolls): Gimbap vendors are plentiful in Busan. While traditional gimbap often contains fish or meat, vegan options filled with colorful vegetables and pickles are widely available.
2. Odeng (Fish Cake Skewers): Believe it or not, vegan versions of odeng can be found in Busan. These skewers feature fish cake-like items made from plant-based ingredients, perfect for munching by the beach.

Embrace Vegan Street Food Across South Korea

South Korea’s vibrant street food culture welcomes vegan travelers with a plethora of delicious options. Whether you’re exploring Seoul’s bustling markets, savoring Gyeongju’s cultural treasures, or enjoying Busan’s coastal delights, you’ll find vegan street snacks that capture the essence of Korean cuisine.

For more culinary adventures and travel recommendations, explore our meticulously crafted 2-Week South Korea Itinerary. Additionally, discover the vegan scenes in Seoul, Gyeongju, and Busan with our specialized guides.

Embark on a culinary journey through South Korea, savoring the best of vegan Korean street food in every city you visit.