If you’re a fan of Korean street food, Gukje Market (국제시장) in Busan is the perfect destination for you. Known as one of the largest and most vibrant markets in South Korea, Gukje Market is not only a shopper’s paradise but also a haven for street food enthusiasts. Whether you’re craving sweet, savory, or spicy treats, this bustling market offers a fantastic variety of traditional Korean snacks that will tantalize your taste buds.
Let’s dive into the top 10 must-try Korean street foods at Gukje Market.
1. Hotteok (호떡) – Sweet Korean Pancake
Hotteok is one of the most beloved Korean street foods, especially during the colder months. Imagine a crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside pancake filled with a sweet and nutty mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts. As you bite into it, the melted sugar oozes out, creating a perfect blend of sweetness and warmth.
At Gukje Market, vendors often add their own twists, offering fillings like honey, red beans, or green tea paste. The smell of freshly cooked hotteok fills the air as you wander through the market, making it hard to resist.
2. Tteokbokki (떡볶이) – Spicy Rice Cakes
Tteokbokki is a classic Korean comfort food made from chewy rice cakes (tteok) simmered in a spicy and sweet gochujang (Korean red chili paste) sauce. The vibrant red color and bold flavor make it a must-try street food.
In Gukje Market, tteokbokki is served with a variety of toppings such as fish cakes, boiled eggs, and vegetables. If you’re a fan of spicy food, this dish will not disappoint. And don’t worry if you’re not a spice enthusiast—vendors often offer a mild version as well.
3. Sundae (순대) – Korean Blood Sausage
Sundae is a popular street food made from pig’s intestines stuffed with a mix of glass noodles, barley, and pig’s blood. While it may sound adventurous to some, sundae is a savory delight with a chewy texture and rich flavor.
At Gukje Market, you’ll find it served either on its own or alongside tteokbokki, with a dipping sauce made from fermented shrimp or a sprinkle of salt. For an even more flavorful experience, try the sundae topped with gochujang or wrapped in lettuce.
4. Eomuk (어묵) – Fish Cake Skewers
Eomuk, also known as odeng, is a popular fish cake made from ground fish mixed with flour, then shaped and boiled in a light broth. Served on skewers, eomuk is often accompanied by a cup of the broth, which is both comforting and flavorful.
Eomuk stands are ubiquitous in Gukje Market, and you’ll see locals enjoying this snack at any time of day. You can choose from a variety of eomuk, from plain skewers to ones stuffed with cheese or vegetables. On a chilly day, eomuk paired with a warm broth is the perfect pick-me-up.
5. Gimbap (김밥) – Korean Rice Rolls
Gimbap is often referred to as Korean sushi, but it’s quite different. A roll of rice, vegetables, and often meat or seafood is wrapped in seaweed (gim) and sliced into bite-sized pieces. It’s the ultimate grab-and-go snack.
In Gukje Market, gimbap comes in several varieties, from the classic version with pickled radish, spinach, and egg, to more unique versions like tuna, bulgogi, or spicy kimchi. It’s a light and healthy street food option that’s perfect for a quick snack while exploring the market.
6. Hot Bar (핫바) – Korean Fried Fish Cake
Hot Bar is another fish cake-based snack, but unlike eomuk, it’s deep-fried and often includes fillings like sausage, vegetables, or cheese. These crispy treats are skewered and served with a variety of sauces, including ketchup, mustard, or spicy gochujang.
Gukje Market has numerous vendors offering hot bar with different fillings, so you can try a variety of flavors. The crunchy exterior combined with the soft fish cake inside makes for a delightful and satisfying snack.
7. Bungeoppang (붕어빵) – Fish-Shaped Pastry
Bungeoppang is a fish-shaped pastry filled with sweetened red bean paste. Despite its fish-like appearance, this snack has nothing to do with seafood. It’s made from pancake-like batter that is poured into fish-shaped molds, filled with red bean, and then cooked until golden brown.
In Gukje Market, bungeoppang is often served piping hot, with a crispy exterior and a soft, sweet filling inside. Some vendors even offer variations filled with custard or chocolate. It’s an iconic Korean street food that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
8. Twigim (튀김) – Korean Fried Snacks
Twigim refers to a variety of deep-fried snacks, similar to tempura. You can find a wide range of ingredients coated in batter and fried to crispy perfection, such as shrimp, vegetables, squid, and even sweet potatoes.
At Gukje Market, you’ll see displays of golden-brown twigim that look irresistible. Pair it with tteokbokki, as it’s common to dip the crispy twigim into the spicy tteokbokki sauce, creating a perfect combination of textures and flavors.
9. Hodugwaja (호두과자) – Walnut Cakes
Hodugwaja are small, walnut-shaped pastries filled with sweet red bean paste and a piece of walnut. The dough is soft and slightly chewy, while the walnut provides a nice crunch.
These bite-sized treats are popular in Gukje Market, and many vendors make them fresh on the spot. The warm, sweet filling and the slight nuttiness of the walnut make hodugwaja an irresistible snack, perfect with a cup of coffee or tea.
10. Patbingsu (팥빙수) – Shaved Ice Dessert
If you’re visiting Gukje Market during the summer, patbingsu is a refreshing dessert you won’t want to miss. This traditional Korean shaved ice dish is topped with sweet red beans, condensed milk, and a variety of other toppings such as fruit, mochi, or ice cream.
At Gukje Market, you can find stalls that offer different versions of patbingsu, from the classic red bean topping to more modern twists like mango or matcha-flavored shaved ice. It’s a cooling and delicious way to beat the heat while indulging in a sweet treat.
Final Thoughts
Gukje Market is a vibrant hub of culture and food, where every corner brings a new flavor to experience. Whether you’re craving something sweet, savory, or spicy, the street foods here cater to every palate. From the iconic hotteok to the comforting tteokbokki, each dish offers a taste of Korean tradition and culinary creativity.
As you explore the market, don’t hesitate to follow your nose, try something new, and savor the culinary delights that make Korean street food so beloved. So, grab a few snacks, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, and enjoy the delicious journey through Gukje Market!
