Korean Street Foods: An Ages Old Tradition

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Article by Gil "hannaone"
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A Brief History of Korean Street Food
Although there are few records, it is likely that Korean street food started during the Three Kingdoms period, if not earlier. Enterprising Koreans would set up temporary food stalls at any location that villagers would gather to shop, trade, or simply enjoy some form of entertainment.

In the Joseon Dynasty circa 1300 AD, Koreans began setting up food stalls near market areas to sell prepared foods to shoppers, travelers, and other people.

During the Japanese colonial era (1910-1945), street food became even more popular as a way for Koreans to express their cultural identity and resist Japanese influence. Street vendors would sell traditional Korean dishes such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and gimbap (seaweed rice rolls) as a way to preserve their culture and provide affordable meals for everyday people.

The Korean war (June 1950 - July 1953) left devastation in it's wake. Refugees who had lost nearly everything were scattered across the country. Street food became a vital part of daily life as the country worked to rebuild its economy. Food carts and stalls could be found on almost every corner, offering a variety of cheap and tasty options for busy workers and students.

In the 1970s, the government began regulating street food vendors due to health concerns. Many vendors were forced to move indoors or shut down completely. However, this did not stop the popularity of street food in Korea. In fact, it only grew as indoor markets and shopping centers began incorporating food stalls into their establishments.

Today, Korean street food is thriving and has become an integral part of Korean culture. In addition to traditional dishes, there are now many modern twists on classic street foods such as Korean fried chicken, cheese corn dogs, and seafood pancakes. Street food festivals are also becoming increasingly popular in Korea, attracting both locals and tourists alike.

In recent years, social media has played a significant role in promoting Korean street food globally. Mouth-watering pictures and videos of colorful and creative dishes have captured the attention of peoples around the world. K-pop and K-Drama have also played a significant role as fans wanted to try foods their favorite idols and stars were seen eating.

These humble beginnings laid the foundation for what we now know as Korea's vibrant street food scene.

Over the years, Korean street food has evolved and adapted to changing tastes and trends. Egg bread and egg pizza have joined with traditional recipes that have been passed down through generations, each with its own unique flavors and techniques.

Today, Korean street food continues to thrive, with vendors showcasing a diverse range of dishes that highlight the country's culinary heritage. From crispy fried snacks to steaming hot soups, there is something for everyone to enjoy on the bustling streets of Korea.

This section has some street food recipes that can easily be made at home.