South Korea may not be the first destination that comes to mind for vegans and vegetarians, with an abundance of fried chicken, BBQ meats and seafood, but you’d be surprised at the variety of plant-based, vegan and vegetarian food options available throughout the country. From traditional Korean dishes, fusion cuisine and western favourites, here’s a guide to some of the best vegan friendly and vegetarian friendly food, snacks, cafes and restaurants in Seoul, Gyeongju, Busan, and Jeju.
In case you didn’t already know, Google Maps doesn’t provide directions/navigation in South Korea, so be sure to download the Naver Maps app to help you find your way to all of these delicious locations.
If you need help to plan a 2-week trip to South Korea, check out our 14 Day South Korea Itinerary – Seoul, Gyeongju, Busan and Jeju.
Table of Contents:
SEOUL VEGAN FOOD
Seoul, the bustling capital of South Korea. With its vibrant culinary scene, Seoul offers a wide range of vegan friendly food and vegetarian friendly food options that cater to all tastes. Whether you’re a local resident or a curious traveler, Seoul’s vegan food scene has something for everyone. From traditional Korean dishes to international cuisines, we’ve curated a list of must-visit restaurants and cafes that celebrate plant-based food.
Maru
Maru is a popular casual restaurant in the heart of Insadong that offers a variety of vegan traditional Korean food and interesting international fusions. The menu includes kimchi quesadilla, tofu bibimbap, vegetable japchae, bunsik, kimbap, udon, dumpling, stir fry spicy rice paste(TTeok), fish cake soup, and more.
Address:
35-4, Insadong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea, 03149
Hours:
Tuesday – Sunday: 10:30am – 3:00pm, 5:00pm – 7:00pm (Kitchen closed 3-5pm)
Osegye Hyang (오세계향)
Another delicious option tucked away in Insadong, Osegye Hyang is somewhat hidden down a stunning little alley and serves up traditional Korean cuisine with a vegan twist. Some popular dishes include the vegan bibimbap, soybean paste stew, jajangmyeon, dumplings, fried “chicken”, spicy tofu stew, kimchi mandu, tteokbokki and more. Food is easy to order with electronic menus on every table. Note: the traditional style floor seating has been replaced with regular tables and chairs.
Address:
14-5 Insa-dong 12-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Hours:
Monday – Wednesday: 11:30am-3:30pm, 5pm – 9pm
Friday: 11:30am-3:30pm, 5pm – 9pm
Saturday – Sunday: 11:30am – 9pm
Bread Blue Vegan Bakery
This fully vegan bakery in Sinchon is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. They offer a wide range of both sweet and savoury baked goods, including bread, cakes, pizza and pastries. The mango cake is delicious – fluffy and creamy. They also do amazing coffee. I can’t wait to go back and try everything here!
Address:
54-58 Nogosan-dong, Mapo-gu, Nogosan-dong, Seoul, South Korea
Hours:
Monday – Saturday: 10:00am – 8:30pm
Sunday: 9:00am – 8:30pm
Plant Cafe
Plant Cafe is a vegan restaurant and bakery cafe in offering healthy plant based comfort food, drinks, and desserts. Their specialties include vegan burgers, sandwiches, and wraps. They also have a great selection of smoothies and juices. It is slightly expensive but portions are big and the food is delicious.
Address:
Itaewon – 2F, Itaewon-dong 130-43, Yongsan-gu, Itaewon, Seoul, South Korea, 140-201
Yeonnam – 87 World Cup buk-ro 4-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Hours:
Tuesday – Sunday: 11am – 10pm
Gwanjang Markets Stall A11
If you’re looking for a more traditional Korean dining experience, head to Gwanjang Market and try stall A11! The famous Gwangjang Market was featured on the Netflix show ‘Street Food,’ episode 6. The lovely lady at stall A11 offers a variety of vegan-friendly traditional Korean street foods, including mungbean pancakes, tteok-bokki, mandu (Korean kimchi dumplings) and bibimbap. It is a must try for an authentic Korean street food experience that is also filling, cheap and delicious. Note: cash only.
Address:
88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno 4(sa)-ga, Jongno-gu
Hours:
Open daily midday – 11pm (hours may vary)
Slunch Factory (슬런치팩토리)
This mostly plant-based restaurant in Hongdae offers a wide range of mostly Western foods, including pizza, risotto, pasta, soup. Their vegan pizza was the highlight for me – the cheese melts and is very tasty, the pepperoni is homemade, the crust is delicious (not too thick) and the level of spicy is perfect. The atmosphere and décor is casual and cozy making it a great spot to chill out.
Address:
38 Wausan-ro 3-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Hours:
Monday – Friday: 11am – 10pm
Saturday & Sunday: 11am – 11pm
Nammi Plant Lab
Tucked away in the South of Seoul, Nammi Plant Lab is a plant-based cafe and vegan desserts bakery with mouthwatering pasta and fluffy gnocchi to savory pizzas and aromatic paellas – their menu showcases a diverse range of plant-powered creations. Whether you’re in the mood for craft beer, fine wine, energizing smoothies, or a comforting cup of coffee, their beverage selection won’t disappoint. Don’t forget to save room for the heavenly vegan desserts nearby at Geobukyi (Turtle Cafe)!
Address:
55 Bangbaecheon-ro 4an-gil, Bangbae 2(i)-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul, South Korea, 137-060
Hours:
Monday – Friday: 12pm – 4pm, 5:30–9pm
Saturday & Sunday: 12pm – 9pm
Veg Green Buffet
This is my favourite vegan all you can eat buffet in Seoul – the food is wholesome, nutritious and delicious. The woman who runs this restaurant is very sweet and welcoming and we always leave so full and satisfied. Some of the highlights include Korean food such as Kimbap and Tteokbokki, deep fried mushroom, and mock/fake meats.
Address:
24-10 Gaepo-ro 20-gil, Gaepo-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea (it is on a side street and can be slightly hard to find)
Hours:
Open Daily: 12pm – 2:30pm, 6pm – 9pm
Loving Hut
Loving Hut is a global chain of vegan restaurants, and the Gangnam location is no exception. The food here is delicious, particularly the Soft Tofu Stew, which offered an authentic taste of Korea, and the Vegan Pizza was a delightful treat. The spicy soy fried chicken is genuinely one of the most delicious things I’ve ever eaten in my life. Additionally, the restaurant features a small shop where you can purchase groceries and even pet food. The menu is in both Korean and English. There’s good WiFi and several outlets for charging devices. We wholeheartedly recommend paying a visit to Loving Hut, not only for the scrumptious food but also to contribute to the growth of the vibrant vegan community in South Korea.
Address:
35 Gaepo-ro 22-gil, Gaepo-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Hours:
Open Daily: 11am – 9pm
STYLEVEGAN (스타일비건)
This trendy vegan cafe in Gangnam serves up a variety of plant-based dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads. You have to try the BBQ pizza, it is so good (and you can thank me later). The homemade ‘chicken’ nuggets are amazing – scarily close to real chicken! They have also perfected the vegan egg if that is your thing. There is a nice atmosphere, the staff are friendly and helpful, and the decor is very stylish. The owner Marcos is Mexican and has been vegan for 23 years (and he loves to chat!).
Address:
6 Seolleung-ro 135-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Hours:
Tuesday – Sunday: 11am – 10pm
(Closed Monday)
Pan Honesta (빵어니스타)
Pan Honesta has two locations in Seoul, the vibrant and diverse neighborhood of Itaewon, and Gangnam. This charming bakery and café is a must visit for vegans with its extensive range of delectable plant-based treats I promise you will love. Their specialties include cookies, cute tarts, and vegan bingsu – a traditional Korean shaved ice dessert, normally made with condensed milk. Every item at Pan Honesta is carefully crafted using high-quality vegan ingredients. The menu showcases a delightful fusion of Korean flavors and international influences. With its cozy atmosphere and commitment to cruelty-free desserts and drinks, Pan Honesta is a true gem for vegans with a sweet tooth.
Address:
Itaewon – 2F, Itaewon-dong 130-43, Yongsan-gu, Itaewon, Seoul, South Korea, 140-201
Gangnam – 43 Dosan-daero 25-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Hours:
Tuesday – Sunday: Midday – 8pm
GYEONGJU VEGAN FOOD
This historic city of Gyeongju in South Korea is not only known for its rich cultural heritage but also its thriving food scene. While there isn’t an abundance of vegan and vegetarian options like you’ll find in Seoul, you will find a few great options for vegan food in Gyeongju and it really is a place worth visiting.
Baru Korean Vegan
Located in the beautiful countryside just outside of the main town, though it does make for a pleasant walk (approx 30 mins). Baru is a fully vegan restaurant offering incredible Korean temple food such as kimchi stew, tofu stir-fry and their signature dish tofu bibimbap is a must-try! I got the set menu which included a variety of courses including bibimbap, jhap chae and vegetables – this is a great option to try a wide range of foods.
Address:
874-3 Seoak-dong, Gyeongju, South Korea
Hours:
Open daily: 12pm – 9pm (hours may vary, check in advance).
Cafe Vege Bakery
Cafe Vege Bakery is a vegan friendly cafe located in the heart of Gyeongju. The menu is clearly marked with vegan options and the owner is lovely and will be happy to show you the different options. The bean steak lunch is simple and flavorful and comes with a fresh salad side (quite rare in Korea!). They do some delicious wraps, salads and fresh bread. The place is cute and casual and a great option for vegan food in Gyeongju.
Address:
1047 Poseok-ro, Gyeongju, South Korea
Hours:
Open daily: 10am – 9pm
Hyangjeok Won (향적원)
Hyangjeok Won is another restaurant serving vegan Korean temple food. They offer set menus and we were recommended the meal for two. It came with a variety of dishes to try and they offered to give us more of anything. The food was very tasty and seemed fresh and healthy. The staff explained what things are and said they’re all vegan, however I have heard mixed reports on whether or not the kimchi is vegan, with some people suggesting they use fish sauce.
Address:
953-21 Ma-dong, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Gyeongju, South Korea
Hours:
Open daily: 11pm – 9pm
Smells Like Bread Bakery (스멜스라이크브레드)
This vegan bakery offers a variety of delicious gluten free vegan bread, muffins, croissants, brownies and sandwiches. The staff were wonderful and the food was delicious!
Address:
24 Gwangjung-gil, Yonggang-dong, Gyeongju-si, South Korea
Hours:
Monday – Saturday: 8am – 6pm
Lotteria
If you’re looking for fast food, Lotteria offers vegan burgers in Gyeongju. The burgers are made with a plant-based patty and are served with vegan cheese and sauces. The Ria Miracle Burger II is made from soy protein and has a meaty texture and flavor. There is a self-ordering machine with an English menu.
Address:
3 Jungang-ro 48beon-gil, Gyeongju, South Korea, 38154
Hours:
Open daily: 9am – 11pm
BUSAN VEGAN FOOD
Known for its vibrant culinary scene, Busan offers a plethora of vegan-friendly options that will satisfy even the most discerning taste buds. From cozy cafes to trendy restaurants, we’ve curated a list of must-visit establishments that cater to plant-based enthusiasts. Whether you’re a local resident or a curious traveler, Busan’s vegan food scene is sure to delight. Explore delightful dishes like vegan bibimbap, tofu soups, and creative plant-based creations that showcase the city’s culinary diversity. Join us on an adventure as we uncover the best vegan dining spots in Busan.
Dajeon
This vegan delight in Seomyeon can be a litle tricky to find, located on the top floor of an unassuming building. You’ll discover a charming vegan restaurant lovingly owned and operated by one woman, offering budget-friendly Korean cuisine. Although the menu is relatively small, the food is nothing short of spectacular and you will be able to try a variety of share plate style vegan Korean food. For those seeking an affordable and mouthwatering vegan Korean dining experience right in the heart of the city, this hidden gem is an absolute must-visit.
Note: It is sometimes reported to close early and opening hours can be irregular.
Address:
61 4F Sincheon-daero 62beon-gil, Busanjin-gu, Busan, South Korea
Hours:
Monday – Saturday: 12–2:30pm, 5–8:30pm
Sunday: Closed
Soban Vegan Restaurant
I absolutely adore this charming vegan eatery nestled in the heart of Busan! The warm-hearted owner (who speaks great English), coupled with the inviting traditional Korean menu, made our dining experience truly exceptional. The owner recommended their famous fried chicken and it is amazing, some of the best vegan fried chicken I’ve ever had! The spicy tofu stew was another delightful surprise, bursting with flavor. And let’s not forget the fried shiitake mushrooms; both versions, one sweet and the other with a spicy-sweet twist, were both delicious. The prices are very reasonable too.
Address:
21, Daeyeong-ro 85beon-gil, Seo-gu, Busan, South Korea, 49217
Hours:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday: 11:30am – 7pm
Wednesday, Sunday: CLOSED
Ecotopia (Vegetarian/Vegan)
This gorgeous restaurant is located in a little house behind the street which gives it a lovely ambiance. The staff are very friendly, speak good english and will be happy to talk you through the menu and advise what is vegan. I had the tofu bibimbap and it was fresh, healthy, light and very tasty, without being too oily like a lot of Korean food.
NOTE: The kimchi is not vegan (contains fish sauce) but everything else has no meat. Vegans please inquire before ordering as some dishes may contain eggs or dairy.
Address:
21, Daeyeong-ro 85beon-gil, Seo-gu, Busan, South Korea, 49217
Hours:
Monday – Saturday: 11am – 3pm, 5pm – 7pm
Sunday: 10am – 3pm
Monday: CLOSED
Vegenarang
Vegenarang is an all-vegan restaurant serving Korean temple style vegan food. It is located on the 9th floor with stunning sea views, especially at sunset. I recommend the lotus leaf rice set so you can try a variety of foods. The fried oyster mushrooms and bean cutlet are particularly good!
Address:
9-32 Gwanganhaebyeon-ro 370beon-gil, Suyeong-gu, Busan, South Korea
Hours:
Daily: 11:30am – 3pm, 5pm – 8pm
JEJU VEGAN FOOD
While there is a vibrant food scene in Jeju, South Korea’s enchanting island paradise, unfortunately vegan options can be hard to find. Jeju Island really is a must-see place and is easily accessible from Seoul or Busan by plane or ferry.
Taco Massim
This taco restaurant serves meat but has vegan and vegetarian options. The owner speaks English and has a clear understanding of veganism. They serve up vegan tacos made with fresh salad and salsa.
Address:
Gujwa-eup Haegeihaean-ro 474, Jeju, South Korea, 695-975
Hours:
Open daily 12pm – 8pm
Five Seventh (칠분의 오)
This vegan restaurant offers a variety of vegan dishes, including Korean and Western favorites. Some of their menu highlights include: dudumchic (vegan chicken), kimchi tteokbokki, vegetable platter, garlic butter pasta, burger and delicious cakes/desserts. It may be easiest to reach with a hire car or taxi. Highly recommended to any vegan spending time in Jeju, it is one of the best restaurants on the island and one of the best in Korea.
Address:
Haemajihaean-ro 650-20, Jeju, South Korea
Hours:
Friday – Tuesday: 12pm – 7pm
Wednesday: 12pm – 4pm
And 유 Yu Cafe Hyeopjae
Located in the west of Jeju Island, this unique cafe and serves up delicious western vegan food in a cozy atmosphere. And 유 (Yu) Cafe Hyeopjae offers a variety of vegan-friendly dishes like burgers, chicken nuggets, salads, chickpea curry, soy milk lattes, and vegan cakes. The burgers really are incredible!
Address:
518 Hallim-ro, Ongpo-ri, Jeju, South Korea
Hours:
Thursday – Monday: 12pm – 7pm
Tuesday & Wednesday: CLOSED
Rajmahal Indian Restaurant
If you’re looking for a break from Korean cuisine, head over to Rajmahal Indian Restaurant in Jeju City. This popular restaurant serves up delicious Indian food with plenty of vegetarian options and vegan available on request. You can indulge in dishes like chana masala, dahl, and vegetable biryani.
Address:
39, Singwang-ro, Jeju-si, Jeju, South Korea, 690/172
Hours:
Open daily 11:30am – 11pm
Travel Insurance:
When embarking on a culinary adventure to discover the best vegan food in South Korea, covering Seoul, Gyeongju, Busan, and Jeju, one crucial element you shouldn’t overlook is travel insurance. It provides peace of mind by covering unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. For comprehensive and reliable coverage, I always recommend SafetyWing Insurance, which I use for all my travels. They’ve consistently been helpful and dependable. Plus, you can get $20 off your policy by joining through this link.
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