1. Cheonggukjang (청국장) – Fermented Soybean Stew
Often called the “stinky tofu” of Korea, this bold, earthy stew is made from fermented soybeans and is packed with probiotics.
🥣 Why you should try it:
While the smell is intense, the flavor is rich, deep, and comforting—perfect on a cold day. Locals love it for its health benefits and strong umami taste.
📍 Best in: Traditional markets and countryside restaurants
Pro tip: Ask for rice and mix it in!
2. Jokbal (족발) – Braised Pig’s Trotters
Jokbal is made by braising pig’s feet in soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and rice wine until tender and flavorful.
🐷 Why locals love it:
It’s rich, collagen-packed, and incredibly satisfying—especially when wrapped in lettuce with kimchi and eaten with a shot of soju.
📍 Where to try: Jokbal Alley in Seoul’s Jangchung-dong
Variation: Try bossam (boiled pork belly) if you’re not ready for trotters.
3. Gukbap (국밥) – Soup with Rice
This humble dish literally means “soup-rice.” It varies by region: Seonji-gukbap (blood curd), dwaeji-gukbap (pork), kongnamul-gukbap (bean sprout).
🍲 Why it’s a staple:
Gukbap is affordable, hearty, and beloved by locals for hangover relief or quick meals. It’s a Korean comfort classic.
📍 Best city: Busan for pork gukbap, Jeonju for bean sprout
Price point: 6,000–8,000₩ – great for budget travelers.
4. Kimchi Jeon (김치전) – Kimchi Pancake
Made by mixing aged kimchi with flour and pan-frying it until crispy, this spicy-sour pancake is a rainy-day favorite.
🥢 Why it’s special:
Served with makgeolli (rice wine), this dish is part of Korea’s monsoon-season culture and is perfect for sharing.
📍 Where: Street stalls, traditional pubs (pojangmacha), and homes
🍶 Pro pairing: Kimchi jeon + makgeolli = local-approved combo
5. Altang (알탕) – Spicy Fish Roe Soup
A fiery red stew made with pollock roe, tofu, vegetables, and glass noodles.
🌶️ Why it’s a hidden gem:
Altang brings out bold seafood flavors with a spicy broth that warms the soul. It’s often served in pubs and pairs beautifully with soju.
📍 Best in: Coastal cities like Incheon or Busan
💡 Don’t let the roe scare you—this is a flavor-packed treasure.
🧳 Traveling for Food? Don’t Miss These!
🗺️ Add these to your itinerary and tag us @KoreaThread with your favorite #HiddenKoreanFoods moments!
