35 Must try Non-Spicy Korean Food and where to eat them in Korea

While Korea has gained fame for its iconic dishes like Kimchi and spicy cuisine, the culinary landscape offers a delightful array of non-spicy alternatives that shouldn't be overlooked. This article explores the lesser-known but equally delicious side of Korean gastronomy, revealing a diverse range of flavors and dishes that cater to various palates.

Jump to:

Non-spicy Korean Soups

Wang Galbi Tang 왕갈비탕

A soup fit for Korean royalty – Wang Galbi Tang! This majestic creation brings tender beef short ribs to a simmering cauldron, where their rich flavors mingle with hearty vegetables. Wang means King/Emperor, or BIG, so it means the ribs are larger. Galbitang is more commonly seen, but it is just as delicious~

Recommended restaurants:

 Euljiro Ipgu: Cham Soot Gol 참숯골

 Myeongdong: Gangnam Myeon Ok 강남면옥 명동점

 

 

Kalguksu 칼국수

Hand-cut noodles dance with tender pieces of chicken, vegetables, and often mushrooms, creating a symphony of textures. The broth, rich in flavor from simmering, adds a soul-soothing note to each spoonful. This soup also comes in other varieties with clams or other proteins.

Recommended restaurants:

 Myeongdong: Myeongdong Gyoza 명동교자 본점

 Hongdae: Yul Chon 율촌

 

Ddak Hanmari 닭한마리

A whole chicken dish that's a culinary masterpiece of indulgence. This dish presents an entire chicken, often marinated or seasoned with a subtle blend of flavors that infuse every inch with deliciousness. The broth is usually made with the chicken and simple vegetables like cabbage, potatoes, spring onion, and mandu. Surprisingly, many koreans do not know about this dish.

Recommended restaurants:

 Sinchon: Yoo Ddak Story Ddak Hanmari 유닭스토리 닭한마리 신촌점

 Jonggak: Baek Bujang Jib 백부장집 닭한마리

 

Ddak Gomtang 닭곰당

The Korean chicken soup that's a testament to both simplicity and depth. Tender pieces of chicken are stewed to perfection, creating a broth that's rich in flavor and comfort.

Recommended restaurants:

 Hongdae: Daraktu 다락투

 Hoehyeon/Namdaemun: Ddak Jinmi Gangwon Jib 닭진미강원집

 

Mandu guk 만두국

The South Korean answer to comfort food. Tender dumpling soup that's a celebration of handmade comfort. Dumplings, filled with a medley of meat and vegetables, are nestled in a clear broth. This also comes in variations where rice cakes or 떡 are added into the broth, transforming it into Tteok Mandu guk.

Recommended restaurants:

 Myeongdong: Neungnado Myeongdong 능라도 명동

 Apgujeong: New Mandu Jib 뉴만두집

 Nambu Bus Terminal: Bongsan Ok 봉산옥 서초동본점

 

NaengMyeon 냉면

At first, cold noodles might sound like a weird dish to eat, but Naengmyeon will surely change your mind. Chewy buckwheat noodles are served in an icy broth, garnished with an assortment of toppings like vegetables, slices of meat, and a hard-boiled egg. Some people like to add vinegar or other sauces to enhance the flavor of the dish.

Recommended restaurants:

 Myeongdong: Nampyo myeonok 남포면옥

 Chungmuro/Myeongdong: Woorae Ok 우래옥

 Chungmuro/Myeongdong: Jeongin Myeon Ok 정인면옥 본점

 

Odeng tang 오뎅탕

A heartwarming broth filled with fish cake wonders. This flavorful elixir dances on the taste buds, delivering a symphony of umami and comfort that's perfect for embracing the soul on any day.

 

Sundae Guk 순대국

A comforting Korean blood sausage soup that's like a culinary embrace. The savory sausages, embraced by a hearty broth, offer a taste of home with every spoonful. This comes in several versions as well, the white version has no hint of heat, whereas the red version is just spicy enough to tingle your senses.

Recommended restaurants:

 Myeongdong: Chungmuro Baekam Sundaeguk 충무로백암순대국

 Hongdae: Koheung Sundaeguk Mori Gogi 고흥순대국머리고기 본점

 

Miyeok guk 미역국

Seaweed takes center stage in a comforting soup. This Korean classic speaks of tradition and nourishment, with its subtle flavors and soothing textures telling stories of love and family. This soup is often fed to mothers who have just given birth, as they believed that it helps them recover faster. This soup is also commonly served during one's birthday.

 

Seolleong tang 설렁탕

The Korean ox bone soup that's a soothing journey to the heart of comfort. Milky and mild, this broth is crafted by simmering ox bones for hours until they release their essence. The clean taste of the broth is the main feature highlighted in this dish. Some people might find it too bland, so taste the broth and don't be afraid to adjust the taste by adding salt or shrimp paste.

Recommended restaurants:

 Myeongdong: Miseong Ok 미성옥

 Geondeok: Mapo Yangdi Seolleongtang 마포양지설렁탕

 

Samgye tang 삼계탕

Korean ginseng chicken soup for wellness. A whole chicken is stewed with ginseng, garlic, and jujubes, creating a broth that's as invigorating as it is flavorful. It's not just a soup; it's a tradition of wellness. Koreans often eat this dish during the 3 hottest days of the year, as they believed you have to fight fire with fire.

Recommended restaurants:

 Myeongdong: Baekje Samgyetang 백제삼계탕

 Coex: Kobong Samgyetang 고봉삼계탕

 

Doenjang Jiggae 된장찌게

A Korean soybean paste stew that's like a flavor explosion in slow motion. With tofu, vegetables, and a symphony of fermented goodness, every spoonful tells a tale of fermentation finesse and umami wonder. This soup is a great accompaniment to grilled meats during dinners, or paired with rice if eaten during breakfast.

 

Non-spicy Korean Appetizers

Cream or Rose Tteokbokki 크림 / 로제 떡볶이

A modern twist on a Korean classic, Cream Tteokbokki merges the fiery flavors of traditional rice cakes with a creamy, indulgent sauce. Whereas Rose is a mix of cream and tomato sauce. These chewy rice cakes dance alongside fish cakes, vegetables, and a creamy sauce that's both soothing and sensational.

Recommended restaurants:

 Hongdae: Bultteok club불떡클럽

 Sinchon: Cow Tteokbokki 카우떡볶이

 

Gyeran jim 계란찜

The velvety embrace of Korean steamed egg casserole. With a base of beaten eggs and a gentle steam bath, this dish transforms into a delicate custard that cradles a variety of ingredients like vegetables, seafood, or meat. As you savor each spoonful, you're tasting a dish that's not just comfort on a plate, but also a testament to the mastery of texture and subtlety in Korean cuisine.

This is usually very easy to find in korean barbecue restaurants

Recommended restaurants:

 Anguk: Choidaegamne 최대감네

 

Gyeran Mari 계란마리

The Korean rolled omelet that's as captivating as it is tasty. Eggs are beaten to perfection, embracing a medley of ingredients like vegetables, ham, or cheese. These are often rolled and then sliced to serve. This is eaten during breakfast, or a light snack eaten with alcohol.

You can easily find this dish in many korean restaurants, especially in Bunshiks and places that serve alcohol.

 

Seasoned Acorn Jelly | Dotori muk 도토리묵

Dotori Muk, the nutty delight that's also known as acorn jelly. Sourced from the acorn, this delicacy is transformed into a soothing dish with a texture reminiscent of tofu. Often served in salads or seasoned with savory flavors, it's a unique taste of Korea's culinary heritage.

Recommended restaurants:

 Myeongdong: Mokmyeoksanbang목멱산방

 Nambu Bus Terminal: Baeknyeon Ok 백년옥

 

Oi Muchim 오이 무침

A Korean cucumber salad that's all about refreshment and zing. These crisp cucumbers shimmy with a dressing of soy sauce, sesame oil, and a hint of spice. It's a side dish that not only adds a vibrant pop of color to the table but also delivers a zesty punch that's perfect for countering the summer heat.

 

Jeon 전

The versatile Korean pancake that's a canvas for creativity. These savory delights can feature an array of ingredients, from seafood to vegetables, all nestled within a delicate batter. Our favorite jeons are: Kimchi Jeon, Kamja Jeon (Potato), or Haemul Pajeon (Seafood and Spring Onion). Don't forget to dip it in the sauce to get the complete jeon-eating experience.

Recommended restaurants:

 Myeongdong: Seoul Jijimi 서울지짐이

 Hongdae: Chamsaebangatkan 참새방앗간

 

Japchae 잡채

Korean glass noodle dish that's a captivating blend of taste and color. These chewy noodles are stir-fried with an orchestra of vegetables, often accompanied by beef or other proteins. The dish sings with the harmonious notes of sesame oil, soy sauce, and sweetness, showcasing the delicate balance that's quintessential to Korean cuisine.

 

 

Non-Spicy Korean Main Dishes

Jimddak 찜닭

The Korean braised chicken that's a flavor-packed party in your mouth. Tender chunks of chicken mingle with vegetables in a savory soy-based sauce, creating a medley of taste and texture. Whether you're enjoying it during festive occasions or simply to satisfy your taste buds, Jjimdak is a testament to the harmonious blending of sweet, savory, and umami notes.

Recommended restaurants:

 Myeongdong: Ilmirigeumgye Jjimttak 일미리금계찜닭

 Hongdae: Daesongine 대성이네

 

 

Bosam 보삼

Bosam brings together slices of tender pork belly, fresh lettuce leaves, and an assortment of condiments, creating a DIY experience that's both interactive and indulgent. Pro tip: dip the pork into some of the samjang sauce, wrap it in a perilla leaf, add garlic and other banchan, then wrap it again in some lettuce.

Recommended restaurants:

 Hongdae: Bega Bosam 베가보쌈

 Myeongdong: Mokmyeok San Bang 목멱산방

 

 

LA Galbi LA 갈비

Short ribs are marinated to perfection with a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and Asian pear, creating a balance of savory and sweet flavors.

Recommended restaurants:

 Jonggak: Mido Galbi 미도갈비

 Yeoksam/Gangnam: 라비옥

 

Samgyupsal 삼겹살

The ever famous-Korean pork belly that's a sizzling sensation. This dish involves grilling thick slices of pork belly at the table, accompanied by a variety of sides and dipping sauces.

Recommended restaurants:

 Myeongdong: Dukopsam 두껍삼

 Hapjeong: YookJi 육지

 

 

Jokbal 족발

Pig's trotters are simmered until tender, then seasoned to perfection with soy sauce, garlic, and spices.

Recommended restaurants:

 City Hall: Manjok Ohyang Jokbal 만족오향족발 시청점

 Dangsan: Herb Jokbal 허브족발

 

 

Gopchang 곱창

The Korean dish that takes adventurous eating to new heights. This dish stars the small intestines of a cow or pig, which are meticulously cleaned, then grilled to a crispy perfection. With a flavor that's both robust and unique, Gopchang tells a tale of culinary courage, embracing textures and tastes.

Recommended restaurants:

 Hongdae: Hwanggop 황곱

 Hongdae: Booyas Gopchang 부야스곱창 홍대본점

 

 

Yuk hwei 육회

Korean steak tartare that's a symphony of flavors and textures. Raw beef is masterfully seasoned with sesame oil, soy sauce, and various aromatics, creating a dish that's both delicate and bold.

Recommended restaurants:

 Hapjeong: Sun Kitchen 썬키친

 Hapjeong: Yook hwei ro육회로

 

 

Bulgogi 불고기

Korean marinated and grilled meat that's a flavor explosion. Thin slices of beef are marinated in a symphony of soy, sesame, and spices, then grilled to perfection.

Recommended restaurants:

 Sangsu: Sandomi Bulgogi 산더미불고기

 Anguk: Jangsoo Haneul So 장수하늘소

 

 

Godungo gui 고등어구이

Imagine a plate adorned with Grilled Mackerel – that's Godeungeo Gui. This dish captures the essence of the sea, embracing the mackerel's rich flavor and flaky texture. The fish is marinated with a hint of salt, brushed with love, and then grilled to perfection.

Recommended restaurants:

 Jongro-3ga: Jeonju Sikdang 전주식당

 Seoul National University: Sigol Jib 시골집

 

Grilled Eel 장어구이

A grilled eel dish that's a true delicacy. Eel, marinated to perfection, takes a turn on the grill, where its rich flavors meld with smoky aromas. The cooking technique may be different for each location, like places in Busan tend to grill it with sauce, while in Seoul they dip the eel to the sauce once it finishes cooking.

Recommended restaurants:

 Jamsil Saenae: Jamsil Jango wa Hanwoo 잠실장어와 한우

 Jamsil: Haemok 해목 롯데월드몰점

 

Raw Fish  생선회

A raw fish dish that's a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Fresh slices of raw fish, adorned with an array of colorful vegetables, dance on the plate like edible art. As you savor each delicate bite, you're experiencing the epitome of freshness and subtlety in Korean cuisine. You can go for the ever popular Tuna or Salmon sashimi, or go for something different like the flat fish with white chewey flesh.

Recommended restaurants:

 Hongdae/Yeonnamdong: Mippeudong 미쁘동

 Hongdae/Yeonnamdong: Yeonnamobu 연남어부

 

Tonkatsu 돈가스

The Korean version of breaded and fried cutlets. Whether it's pork or another protein, these cutlets are coated in a crispy, golden armor that's both delightful and satisfying. But Donkkaseu is more than just a crunch; it's a delightful play of textures and tastes, where the exterior crisps embrace the tender interior.

Recommended restaurants:

 Myeongdong: Meongdong Tonkatsu 명동돈가스

 Hapjeong: Kawakatsu 카와카츠 합정점

 Hapjeong: Katsumi 카츠미 홍대본점

 

Grilled clams 조개구이

Grilled clams that transport you to coastal breezes and ocean flavors. These briny treasures are gently cooked over an open flame, allowing their natural flavors to shine. With each shellfish revealing a bite-sized marvel, you're savoring a taste of the sea that's as vibrant as the shorelines they come from.

Recommended restaurants:

 Children's Grand Park: Mishil ilka 미식일가

 Wangsimni: Wangsimni Joge Changgo 왕십리조개창고

 

Tangsuyuk 탕수육

The Korean-chinese answer to sweet and sour crispy pork. These golden nuggets of joy are not just fried to crispy perfection, but also coated in a tantalizing sweet and sour sauce. It's a culinary delight that's not only a treat for the palate but also a testament to Korea's prowess in reimagining global flavors through their own unique lens.

Recommended restaurants:

 Myeongdong: Lanchu lamien 란주라미엔 

 Hannamdong/Itaewon: Hannamdong Jari 한남동자리 한남점

 Yeongdeungpo: Song Juk Jang 송죽장

 

Dubu Jeorim 두부저림

Braised tofu that's a true revelation of flavor and technique. Tofu takes center stage, absorbing a savory soy-based sauce like a sponge. As it simmers, the tofu transforms into a canvas of umami goodness, ready to delight the palate with each bite.

Recommended restaurants:

 Aeoge: Hwanggeum Kongbat 황금콩밭

 

Galbi Jjim 갈비찜

A braised short rib dish. Tender pieces of marinated short ribs are nestled on the plate, coated in a savory, glossy sauce. The meat is adorned with vibrant carrot and potato chunks, adding both color and taste. Garnished sesame seeds and sliced green onions are sprinkled on top.

Recommended restaurants:

 Myeongdong: Gangnam Myeon Ok 강남면옥 명동점