Exploring local grocery stores is a must during your travels! It's an essential experience to truly feel the essence of Seoul. When you visit large supermarkets, make sure to delight in the diverse array of samples at the tasting stations and take advantage of the various discounts available. We suggest shopping for items at the supermarket that will leave a lasting memory of your trip to Seoul.
Ramyeon
Korean Ramyeon (instant noodles) is known for its chewy noodles and flavorful broth. Ramyeon comes in a variety of flavors, including Bibimmyeon (spicy Ramyeon), spaghetti Ramyeon, and spicy Ramyeon. The spicy Korean Ramyeon is the most notable. If you want to test your spice tolerance, I recommend Buldak Bokkeummyeon (hot chicken flavor instant noodles).
Recommended Ramyeon list
- Reference: shinramyun.com/brand/shinramyun
Shin RamyunShin Ramyun is a spicy and savory Korean Ramyeon that is popular both at home and abroad. Shin Ramyun Black, the premium version of Shin Ramyun, would make an excellent and one-of-a-kind gift. - Reference: samyangfoods.com/kor/brand/spicyRamen.do
Buldak BokkeummyeonIt is a stir-fried noodle that's popular amongst those who like an intensely spicy flavor. If you prefer a milder flavor, the carbonara cheese variation is recommended. - Reference: brand.nongshim.com/chapagetti/product/index
ChapagettiIt is a Korean-style sweet Jjajang Ramyeon. Don't miss out on 'Chapaguri,' the globally famous fusion of 'Chapagetti' and 'Neoguri,' as seen in the film Parasite. - Reference: paldofood.co.kr/product/noodle/12
BibimmyeonA popular Korean dish, Bibimmyeon, has also been mentioned frequently in BTS live broadcasts. It is recommended to try it with meat, particularly by wrapping Samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly) in the Ramyeon. - Reference: brand.nongshim.com/bowlnoodle/main/index
Yukgaejang Bowl NoodlesThis instant noodle has been a national favorite for decades. It's not quite the same as Yukgaejang (spicy beef soup), but it's made with the same traditional Korean flavor. It has a milder flavor than other Korean Ramyeon.
Snacks
While in Seoul, you should also try some Korean snacks. There is a variety of sweet and salty snacks, as well as beverages, to choose from. Among them are a few well-known snacks that everyone enjoys.
Recommended snack list
- Reference: orionworld.com/goods/view/26?page=1&goodsno=8&category=0101&keyname=&keyword=&badge=
Cham BungeoppangIt is a fish-shaped pastry with sticky rice cake and chocolate cream inside, resulting in a sweet and chewy bun. - Reference: brand.naver.com/binggrae/products/6103523819
Banana-Flavored MilkIt is a banana-flavored milk pot with a distinctive shape. Its sweet flavor has made it popular, and it is also available in strawberry flavor in the same container. - Reference: brand.naver.com/hbafstore/products/4505191785
Honey Butter AlmondsIt is an almond brand that seasonings are added to almonds to create different flavors. It is popular for its sweet and salty combination, and other variations such as wasabi and Injeolmi (bean-powder-coated rice cake) are also popular. - Reference: orionworld.com/goods/view/32?page=1&goodsno=84&category=0107&keyname=&keyword=&badge=
Market O Real BrownieChocolate snack with a chewy brownie flavor. It has a texture that is somewhere between soft and chewy. Its rich flavor complements milk well. 
Butter WafflesIt's a waffle-shaped snack flavored with butter. The biscuit tastes both sweet and savory. It pairs well with coffee.
Coffee/Tea
Many Koreans like a good cup of coffee. As a result, there are a plethora of instant coffee brands. Maxim and KANU are two of the most well-known. Aside from coffee, various types of traditional Korean tea are widely available in markets.
Recommended list of coffee and tea
- Reference: dongsuh.co.kr/2017/02_products/02_product_view.asp?cate=3&cate2=1&idx=48
KANUIt is a coffee brand well-known for being endorsed by actor Gong Yoo. Coffee comes in a variety of flavors, including black coffee, latte, and decaf. - Reference: dongsuh.co.kr/2017/02_products/02_product_view.asp?cate=2&cate2=1&idx=31
MaximIt is the pinnacle of Korea's coffee sticks. These coffee sticks have gained global popularity for their sweet taste. - Reference: osulloc.com/kr/ko/shop/item/teashop/15263
OSULLOCThis brand specializes in a diverse range of teas, with Jeju green tea as its flagship offering. The packaging is exquisitely designed, making it an excellent gift option. - Reference: dongsuh.co.kr/2017/02_products/02_product_view.asp?cate=12&cate2=2&idx=92
Barley teaBarley tea has a light, refreshing flavor with a nutty undertone. Cold water can also be used for steeping. - Reference: dongsuh.co.kr/2017/02_products/02_product_view.asp?cate=12&cate2=2&idx=92
Yuzu teaYuzu tea is a sweet and refreshing citrus tea that is made by preserving it in sugar. It can help relieve cold symptoms when mixed with hot water. - Reference: ottogi.co.kr/product/product_view.asp?page=1&hcode=&mcode=&stxt=%EC%98%A4%EB%AF%B8%EC%9E%90&orderby=BEST&idx=275
Omija (Schisandra) teaSweetness, bitterness, astringency, spiciness, and saltiness are all present in this traditional Korean tea.
Laver
A crispy and savory snack, Korean laver. It's a classic side dish that goes great with steamed white rice. It is a popular gift that appeals to people of all ages. Laver can also be fried to make a slightly sweeter dish called Gimjaban (Korean seaweed flakes).
Reference: shutterstock.com
Soju
Soju (Korean-distilled alcoholic beverage) is regarded as a cultural icon in Korea. The most basic type of Soju is the one in a green bottle with a 16.5% alcohol content. There are also Soju options with lower alcohol content and different fruit flavors. As a souvenir, miniature bottles of Soju can be purchased.
Recommended Soju list
- Reference: beer2day.com/m/2800
Original SojuThe most authentic Soju can be identified by its green bottle and green cap. It appears in TV shows frequently, and it leaves you with a bitter aftertaste. - Reference: hitejinro.com/brand/view.asp?brandcd2=E01
Isul Tok TokWith only 3% of alcohol, this fruit-flavored Soju may be consumed relatively easily. Similar to Japan's Horoyoi, it is perfect for lightweight drinkers. - Reference: hitejinro.com/brand/view.asp?brandcd2=E02
Fruit SojuFruit Soju is available in a variety of fruity flavors, including grapefruit, green grape, plum, blueberry, and more. Fruit Soju has an average alcohol content of 13.5%, which is the same as regular Soju.
Kimchi
Kimchi is always present on any Korean table. It has a distinct flavor, unlike Japanese Taiwanese or Japanese Kimchi. If you tried it and liked it while in Seoul, bring some home with you. If you haven't had a chance to try it while traveling, you can do so at a supermarket's tasting station.
Reference: shutterstock.com
Sesame oil
Korean sesame oil is tasty and aromatic. It is a versatile sauce that adds a rich flavor to any dish and pairs especially well with fried rice. If you enjoy Korean cuisine, sesame oil is highly recommended.
Reference: shutterstock.com
