Plant-based in the land of BBQ? Absolutely! Here’s how.
Korea is known for its bold flavors and meat-heavy dishes like samgyeopsal and bulgogi. But here’s the good news: vegan and vegetarian travelers don’t have to miss out! With Korea’s temple food heritage, growing wellness culture, and innovative cafés, eating meat-free is easier (and tastier) than ever.
Whether you’re a strict vegan or a curious flexitarian, here’s your ultimate guide to vegan and vegetarian food in Korea—plus the best places to find it.
🌿 Understanding the Basics
Before we dive in, here’s a quick note:
Vegetarian (채식 / chaesik) usually implies no meat or fish, but may include eggs/dairy.
Vegan (비건 / bigeon) is less common in daily conversation—be specific when ordering.
Some soups and stews use anchovy or beef broth even if there’s no visible meat.
🗣️ Learn to say:
“고기, 생선, 계란, 우유 없어요. 채식이에요.”
(No meat, fish, eggs, or dairy. I’m vegetarian.)
🥗 Traditional Korean Dishes That Are Naturally Vegetarian/Vegan
1. Bibimbap (비빔밥)
A bowl of mixed rice with seasoned veggies, often topped with a fried egg or gochujang.
➡️ Ask for no egg, no meat.
2. Japchae (잡채)
Stir-fried glass noodles with vegetables and soy sauce.
➡️ Some versions include beef—ask first.
3. Kimchi (김치)
Iconic, but beware! Most kimchi contains fish sauce or shrimp paste.
➡️ Look for vegan kimchi at specific restaurants or markets.
4. Kimbap (김밥)
Korea’s version of sushi rolls. Look for yachae kimbap (야채김밥)—veggie only!
5. Sundubu Jjigae (순두부찌개) – Soft tofu stew
Some places offer vegan versions with vegetable broth.
🧘♀️ Temple Food: Korea’s Original Vegan Cuisine
Monks in Korea follow a strict plant-based diet. Temple cuisine is free from:
Meat
Fish
Eggs and dairy
Even pungent ingredients like garlic and onion
Must-try temple food dishes:
Lotus leaf rice
Perilla seed soups
Fermented vegetable sides
🏯 Where to Try:
Balwoo Gongyang (Seoul) – Michelin-starred temple cuisine near Jogyesa Temple
Sanchon (Insadong) – Traditional temple food + performances
Barugongyang at Bongeunsa Temple – Sometimes available with a temple stay
🥑 Best Vegan & Vegetarian Restaurants in Seoul
1. Plant (Itaewon & Yeonnam)
🌱 100% vegan
Must-try: Buddha bowls, vegan mac & cheese, carrot cake
2. Loving Hut (Various locations)
🌱 International vegan chain
Affordable Korean-style vegan food: cutlets, rice sets, and soups
3. Huggers (Itaewon)
🍔 Vegan burgers, loaded fries, comfort food
4. Café Sukkara (Hongdae)
🌿 Organic, seasonal, and often vegetarian-friendly Korean-Western fusion
5. The Bread Blue (Hongdae & Sinchon)
🥐 Vegan bakery with croissants, cakes, and soy cream pastries
🛒 Vegan Groceries in Korea
iHerb Korea – Ships imported plant-based products
Coupang / Market Kurly – Search for “비건” (vegan)
Vegan convenience stores: Look for new vegan convenience snacks like barley rice balls, seaweed chips, and soy jerky.
📍 Bonus: Vegan-Friendly Cities Beyond Seoul
Busan: Try Leaf & Vine, or Jeonpo Café Street for hidden vegan cafés
Jeonju: The home of bibimbap, with plenty of veg options
Gyeongju: Great for temple food lovers and scenic meals near heritage sites
💡 Tips for Vegan Travelers
Use the HappyCow app to find up-to-date vegan/veg spots
Learn Korean food terms (e.g., “육수 = broth”, “고기 = meat”)
Stay near Hongdae, Itaewon, or Insadong for the best vegan access
Be flexible: Many restaurants will customize if you ask politely
💬 Final Thoughts
Going plant-based in Korea is no longer a struggle—it’s an adventure. From ancient temple meals to modern vegan bakeries, you’ll discover a whole new side of Korean cuisine.
All it takes is a bit of planning, a few phrases, and an open appetite.
📸 Share Your Vegan Journey!
Tried a plant-based gem in Seoul or a vegan kimbap roll in Jeju? Tag @KoreaThread and use #VeganKoreaEats to get featured!
