Korean cuisine offers a diverse culinary experience, but some dishes push the boundaries of what many Westerners consider palatable. This article explores six unusual Korean foods that may challenge even the adventurous eater. While these foods might seem strange at first, they are integral parts of Korean food culture.
A night market in Seoul, showcasing the vibrant street food scene.
Jeju Island’s famous black pork, a popular dish served with various side dishes.
Gaebul (penis fish), a unique and unusual seafood.
Gejang (Live Crab)
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Gejang features small crabs marinated in a variety of sauces, often served raw or lightly cooked. The use of fresh, sometimes live, crabs is a defining characteristic. Variations include Ganjang Gejang (soy sauce marinated) and Yangnyeom Gejang (red chili paste marinated). Tender soft-shell crabs are particularly popular and often eaten shell and all.
Various images showcasing Ganjang Gejang (soy sauce marinated crab).
Ganjang Gejang, illustrating the marinade’s effect on the crab’s appearance.
Gaebul (Penis Fish)
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Gaebul, also known as the Urechis unicinctus, is a soft-bodied marine worm. It’s typically served raw, sliced into pieces that still wiggle slightly, creating a unique textural experience. Despite its unusual appearance, it’s considered a delicacy and often seen as safer to consume than live octopus.
A close-up image of Gaebul.
Additional images showcasing the unusual appearance of Gaebul.
Preparing Gaebul for consumption.
Sannakji (Live Octopus)
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Sannakji is a famously daring dish. It consists of small pieces of live octopus, still moving and with their suction cups actively grasping, served immediately after preparation. While incredibly popular, it poses a potential choking hazard due to the suction cups which can cling to the throat.
Images showcasing Sannakji’s distinctive preparation and presentation.
Hongeo-hoe (Fermented Stingray)
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Hongeo-hoe is known for its pungent ammonia-like smell and strong flavor. It’s a dish that requires an acquired taste; many find its initial aroma repulsive, but some develop a fondness for it over time. This acquired taste is often associated with the repetitive consumption of the dish, similar to fermented foods in other cultures.
Various images of Hongeo-hoe, highlighting its unique appearance and often accompanying dishes.
Shit-Shaped Cake (똥빵, Ddongppang)
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The unusual appearance of this cake, fashioned in the shape of feces, often overshadows its taste. Despite its name and shape, Ddongppang is a popular sweet treat in some parts of Korea and perceived as a lucky confection.
Cheonggukjang (Fermented Soybean Soup)
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Cheonggukjang, a fermented soybean soup, is renowned for its strong, pungent odor. The smell is often described as unpleasant, even reminiscent of decaying matter, leading to its nickname, “dead body soup.” However, the flavour is often appreciated by those who can overcome the initial smell.
Images of Cheonggukjang, highlighting its appearance and common serving style.
Note: The final paragraph about Vietnamese tourism to Korea has been omitted as it’s unrelated to the core topic of unusual Korean foods.
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