Vegetarian and vegan Korean cuisine a complete travel guide

Vegetarian and vegan travel in South Korea has undergone a radical transformation over the last decade. Once considered a culinary challenge due to the ubiquity of bone broths and salted shrimp in side dishes, Korea is now emerging as a sophisticated destination for plant-based dining. As of 2026, the number of vegan-friendly establishments in Seoul alone has surpassed 950, reflecting a growing domestic interest in health and sustainability.

For the international traveler, navigating this landscape requires a mix of cultural understanding and practical know-how. While Korean cuisine is heavily vegetable-focused (Namul), the hidden ingredients like fish sauce (Aecjeot) and meat extracts can be tricky. This guide provides the definitive roadmap to enjoying authentic Korean flavors without compromising your dietary ethics.

Related reading: Vegan and vegetarian guide to Korean food 2026 essential ....

Understanding the Korean Vegan Landscape

Is Korea vegan-friendly? The short answer is yes, but with caveats. Historically, Korea has a rich tradition of plant-based eating rooted in Buddhism. However, modern Korean dining is highly social and often centers around BBQ culture.

You might also enjoy our article about 7 Best Vegan-Friendly Hanok Restaurants in Seoul.

The most critical distinction for travelers is between "Temple Food" (Sachal Eumsik) and general Korean food. Temple food is strictly vegan and also excludes five pungent vegetables (garlic, green onion, leek, chive, and onion) believed to hinder spiritual practice. This cuisine is not only safe for vegans but is considered the pinnacle of Korean gastronomy.

Related reading: Gyeongju Traditional Cuisine Historic Recipes and Dining ....

Conversely, standard restaurants often use beef powder (Dasida) or anchovy broth (Myeolchi-yuksu) in seemingly vegetarian dishes like stews. Awareness is improving, but assumption is the enemy of the vegan traveler here.

Related reading: Korean royal court cuisine where to try authentic dishes.

Essential Survival Vocabulary

To dine successfully, you must communicate your needs clearly. English proficiency varies, so having the right phrases or a translation app is vital. The average interaction at a local restaurant takes less than 2 minutes, so being concise is key.

Here are the romanized phrases you need to know:

• Chaeshik-ju-ui-ja: Vegetarian
• Bigeon: Vegan
• Gogi ppae-juseyo: Please remove the meat.
• Aecjeot neo-chi ma-seyo: Please do not put in fish sauce.
• Gyeran ppae-juseyo: Please remove the egg.

Temple Cuisine: The Holy Grail of Vegan Dining

For the highest quality experience, Temple Cuisine is unmatched. These meals are often served as multi-course feasts costing between ₩30,000 to ₩150,000 per person depending on the venue.

Balwoo Gongyang

Located in Jongno-gu, this is arguably the most famous temple food restaurant in Korea, run by the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism.

Maru Jayeonsik Gimbap

For a more accessible entry into temple-style flavors without the fine dining price tag, Maru offers simpler dishes in the bustling Insadong district.

Top Vegan-Friendly Dishes to Order Anywhere

If you cannot find a dedicated vegan restaurant, many standard Korean dishes can be customized. Prices for these standard meals usually range from ₩8,000 to ₩15,000.

1. Bibimbap (Mixed Rice)

Rice topped with sautéed vegetables and gochujang (chili paste).

• Modifications: Request no meat (Gogi) and no egg (Gyeran).
• Caution: Some gochujang contains beef extract, though this is rare in cheaper restaurants.

2. Japchae (Stir-fried Glass Noodles)

Sweet potato starch noodles stir-fried with vegetables and soy sauce.

• Modifications: Usually vegetarian by default, but ask for no meat to be safe.
• Price: Often served as a side dish (free) or a main (₩12,000).

3. Doenjang-jjigae (Soybean Paste Stew)

A hearty stew made from fermented soybeans.

• Modifications: This is high-risk. You MUST ask if they use anchovy broth (Myeolchi-yuksu). Ask for water base (Maeng-mul) instead.

Modern Vegan Hotspots in Seoul

While traditional food is excellent, Seoul has a booming modern vegan scene, particularly in the districts of Itaewon, Mapo, and Gangnam. These areas concentrate roughly 40% of the city's western-style vegan eateries.

Plant Cafe Seoul (Itaewon)

A pioneer in the Seoul vegan scene, offering hearty burgers, salads, and incredible desserts.

• Location: 2nd Floor, 117 Bogwang-ro, Yongsan-gu.
• Distance: 5-minute walk from Itaewon Station, Exit 4.
• Price: Burgers approx ₩16,000.

Ooh Breado (Mapo)

A completely vegan bakery famous for gluten-free options and mugwort ciabatta.

• Location: Mangwon-dong area.
• Price: Breads start at ₩3,500.

Convenience Store Survival Guide

Korea's convenience stores (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven) are ubiquitous, found every 100 meters in cities. They are open 24/7 and are lifesavers for breakfast or late-night snacks.

Recently, major chains have launched dedicated vegan lines. Look for the "Vegan" certification mark from the Korean Vegan Certification and Services.

What to buy:

1. Samgak Kimbap (Triangle Rice Ball): Look for "Jeonju Bibim" flavor (check ingredients) or pickled tuna (avoid). The safest is usually plain or kimchi-fried rice (check for meat).
2. Sweet Potatoes: In winter, stores sell hot roasted sweet potatoes (Goguma) for ₩2,000.
3. Soy Milk: Brands like 'Vegimil B' (Sweet) and 'Vegimil A' (Plain) are standard. Cost: ₩1,200.

One Day Vegan Itinerary in Seoul

To help you plan, here is a geographically optimized itinerary centered around the cultural district of Jongno, keeping travel times under 20 minutes between stops.

The Economics of Vegan Travel in Korea

Is eating vegan in Korea expensive? It depends on your approach. While imported vegan cheeses and meats in Western-style cafes can drive prices up to ₩20,000 per dish, traditional Korean peasant food is incredibly affordable.

Vegetables are a staple of the Korean diet, but fresh fruit can be surprisingly expensive. For example, a single apple can cost ₩2,500, and a small pack of strawberries often exceeds ₩12,000 during winter.

How to Order at a Non-Vegan Restaurant

When you find yourself in a standard restaurant with friends, follow this step-by-step guide to ensure your meal is safe. This process takes about 3 minutes.

Final Thoughts for the Traveler

Korea is rapidly evolving into a destination that respects dietary diversity. While it requires more vigilance than London or Berlin, the reward is access to centuries-old culinary traditions that celebrate nature. By utilizing the specific phrases provided and targeting the 1,000+ vegan-friendly spots now mapped across the peninsula, your culinary journey will be as memorable as the sights themselves.