Korean snacks are taking the world by storm, so in this article, we’ll tell you all about what’s out there so you can get your snack on!
If you’re in Korea, most of these can be found at the local 편의점 (pyeonuijeom or convenience store).
If you are living outside of Korea, you might be able to find them at a local Korean supermarket, or in the Korean aisle at a local supermarket or online.
Korean snacks are like nothing you’ve experienced before – Koreans take snacking very seriously and have come up with some of the tastiest treats under the sun. Korean snacks you have to try immediately and try not to get too hungry as you’re reading!
(오리온 초코파이 | Orion chokopai)
Now this one is the most famous of all Korean snacks, and it is pretty much impossible to meet a Korean who does not know about Choco pies! In fact, they are an integral part of Korean society, and it is something that you definitely have to try! For me, I eat them fairly often and they are a very soft and chocolatey snack that can also be purchased pretty much anywhere in Korea.
(빼빼로 | Pepero)
Have you ever loved a snack so much that you thought it deserved its own holiday? Well, that’s how Koreans feel about Pepero, and it has its own holiday! Which is very popular in Korea. Most Koreans will give Pepero's to other people to express their gratitude.
These delicious chocolate-covered sticks are a Korean favorite, and rightfully so. There are tons of varieties incorporating milk chocolate, white chocolate, sprinkles, and peanut butter – what more could you possibly ask for in a snack? Give Pepero a try the next time you’re in the mood for an easy-to-eat dessert, and you’ll see what all the fuss is about!
(칸쵸 초코 | kanchyo choko)
Now, these are probably my favorite Korean snack! These light and flaky chocolate-filled cookies are a dream come true for dessert lovers. There is a hint of milk chocolate inside so they are not super rich, but they still pack a punch. So the tiny snacks mean that you can pop one (or six...) in your mouth and eat them on the go.
They also have adorable pictures printed on each cookie, so this snack serves as a great pick-me-up if you’re stress-eating and need to cheer yourself up. Pick up a box or container the next time you’re in the mood for a dessert that is quick, easy, and guaranteed to make you smile.
Korean Snack #4: Dried Squid
(해오징어 | haeojingeo)
Alright, hear me out. Dried squid as a snack? I know it probably sounds a little outlandish, but this delicious seafood snack is similar to beef jerky in texture and is utterly delicious if you enjoy squid in its other variations.
Like beef jerky, the texture takes a little getting used to, but this snack is perfect if you want to munch on something salty but need something more substantial (and full of protein) than chips and rice snacks. Take a walk on the wild side and pick up some dried squid – you’ll be converted after your first bite! You might also want to have this as a snack while watching Squid Game!
(허니버터칩 | heonibeoteochip)
Honey butter chips have taken Korea by storm: since their release, the chips have been sold out nearly everywhere, and when they’re in stock people buy them by the box to make sure they don’t run out right away!
If you do happen to stumble upon a bag of honey butter chips in the wild, be sure to snatch them up – these chips are insanely delicious and popular enough that celebrities have exclusive bags sent directly to them to advertise and post selfies with. Let the hunt begin!
(가나 밀크 초콜릿 | gana milkeu chokollit)
As a chocolate lover, I’m a firm believer that sometimes, there’s no better snack than straight-up milk chocolate. If you’re also a believer in the magical properties of chocolate, look no further – Lotte Ghana is one of the most popular brands of chocolate in Korea, and for good reason!
Chocolate didn’t become big in Korea until the mid-twentieth century when it was introduced via the Westerners who were posted up for the Korean War. Lotte introduced Ghana milk chocolate to the world in the mid-1970s, and the rest is history!
The reason Ghana is so popular (aside from being delicious) is the love that is put into the chocolate-making technique – rather than just slapping together some subpar chocolate, Lotte developed a micro-grinding technique that breaks the particles in the chocolate down to tiny pieces, resulting in a smooth and delicious chocolate bar. Give it a try for yourself and see what all the fuss is about!
You should definitely, try all of these Korean snacks, as you will not be disappointed.
Let us know in the comments below which Korean snacks you enjoy or want to try!