Korea is renowned for its vibrant pop culture, stunning landscapes, and flavorful cuisine. While Korean barbecue, kimchi, and bibimbap might steal the spotlight, Korean snacks are just as delightful and worth exploring. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet, savory, crunchy, or chewy, Korean snacks cover it all. These unique flavors and textures provide a fun and tasty experience that’s hard to forget. In this blog, we’ll take you on a delicious journey as we explore the top 10 best Korean snacks you absolutely need to try.
1. Choco Pie (초코파이)
A classic that has stood the test of time, the Choco Pie is essentially the Korean version of a moon pie. It consists of two layers of soft cake filled with a marshmallow center, all coated in rich chocolate. Choco Pies are loved by both children and adults alike, and they’re often enjoyed with a hot beverage.
While the traditional flavor remains popular, you can now find variations like green tea, banana, and even strawberry, catering to diverse tastes. This versatile snack can be enjoyed as a quick dessert or an afternoon treat, and it’s perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth.
2. Honey Butter Chips (허니버터칩)
When Honey Butter Chips were first released in 2014, they sparked a national craze in Korea, with stores struggling to keep them in stock. These chips offer a perfect balance of sweet and salty, thanks to the combination of honey and buttery goodness. The texture is light and crispy, making them highly addictive.
Their popularity has led to several copycat versions, but the original remains a fan favorite. The sweet-salty contrast gives it a unique flavor profile, unlike any other potato chip you’ve tried before.
3. Tteokbokki Snack (떡볶이 스낵)
If you’re a fan of Korean street food, you’ve likely heard of tteokbokki – spicy, chewy rice cakes coated in a gochujang-based sauce. For those who want the tteokbokki experience in a more convenient form, the Tteokbokki Snack is a must-try. These crunchy, tubular snacks are seasoned to mimic the flavor of tteokbokki, offering a sweet and spicy kick.
The snack version is a lot more portable than the real dish, and it’s ideal for those who love bold, spicy flavors. It’s perfect for a quick bite between meals or while watching your favorite K-drama.
4. Orion Kkobuk Chip (꼬북칩)
If you’re looking for something fun and different, try the Kkobuk Chip, or “Turtle Chip.” These snacks are named after their turtle-shell appearance, with four light and crispy layers that melt in your mouth. They come in various flavors, but the most popular are the original corn flavor and the sweet cinnamon variety.
The unique texture makes them especially satisfying to eat. Kkobuk Chips have become increasingly popular, not just in Korea but also in international snack markets.
5. Shrimp Crackers (새우깡)
A quintessential Korean snack, Shrimp Crackers are crunchy, shrimp-flavored sticks that have been a staple in Korean households since 1971. Made with real shrimp, these crackers pack a punch of seafood flavor with a satisfying crunch.
Shrimp Crackers are especially popular during picnics, movie nights, or as an accompaniment to a cold beer. They’re not too fishy, making them approachable even for those who aren’t big on seafood flavors.
6. Pepero (빼빼로)
One of the most recognizable Korean snacks, Pepero is a thin biscuit stick coated in chocolate. It’s similar to Japan’s Pocky but has its own distinct appeal. Available in various flavors like almond, cookies and cream, strawberry, and green tea, Pepero is perfect for quick snacking or sharing with friends.
Pepero Day (November 11th) is a widely celebrated day in Korea, where people exchange Pepero sticks as gifts, making it a symbol of affection and friendship.
7. Banana Kick (바나나킥)
If you love bananas, you’re in for a treat with Banana Kick. These puffed corn snacks are shaped like little banana slices and have a light, airy texture. The flavor is sweet but not overpowering, making them ideal for casual snacking.
Banana Kick is a favorite among children but has plenty of fans across all age groups. They’re light enough to enjoy without feeling too guilty about it and are often considered one of Korea’s most iconic snacks.
8. Korean Rice Crackers (쌀과자)
For those who want a healthier snack option, Korean Rice Crackers are a great choice. Made from puffed rice, these crackers are light, crispy, and often slightly sweet or savory. They come in different varieties, including seaweed-flavored, honey-glazed, or plain, making them a versatile snack option.
Korean Rice Crackers are typically low in calories, making them perfect for a guilt-free munch. They’re commonly enjoyed with tea or as a midday snack.
9. Ppushu Ppushu (뿌셔뿌셔)
Here’s a fun and quirky snack that’s quite unique to Korea. Ppushu Ppushu is a dried ramen snack that you eat uncooked! The process is simple: you break up the ramen noodles inside the bag, sprinkle the seasoning packet, shake it up, and then enjoy.
It’s available in various flavors such as spicy, BBQ, and chicken. Ppushu Ppushu is beloved for its crunchy texture and strong flavor, making it a fun and convenient snack.
10. Hotteok Mix (호떡 믹스)
Hotteok is a popular Korean street food, typically enjoyed during the colder months. It’s a sweet pancake filled with a delicious mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts. For those who want to enjoy hotteok at home, several brands offer Hotteok Mix kits that allow you to make your own!
These kits include the pancake mix and the filling ingredients, making it easy to recreate the sweet, gooey pancakes from the comfort of your kitchen. Hotteok is the perfect snack to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.
Final Thoughts
Korean snacks are a delightful mix of sweet, savory, crunchy, and chewy, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. Whether you’re craving something spicy like Tteokbokki Snacks or something sweet like Choco Pie, there’s a snack for everyone. These snacks offer a quick glimpse into Korean food culture, and trying them is a fun way to explore Korea’s rich culinary traditions.
Next time you find yourself near a Korean grocery store or shopping online, be sure to grab a few of these snacks and give them a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
