If you’re a vegetarian planning a trip to South Korea, you’ve probably already asked the big question: Is it possible to survive without eating meat in Korea? The short answer is yes—but it takes a little research, patience, and cultural awareness.
Korean cuisine is delicious, vibrant, and deeply tied to its history and social customs. However, it’s also a cuisine that heavily relies on meat, seafood, and broths made from animal products. Even dishes that look plant-based may contain fish sauce, anchovy broth, or meat-based condiments.
That said, being vegetarian in Korea is absolutely doable—with the right mindset and knowledge. This guide is designed to help vegetarians navigate Korean restaurants, convenience stores, and even grocery aisles while still enjoying the local food culture. Whether you’re living in Korea or just visiting, here’s how to eat well, confidently, and meat-free.
Understanding the Vegetarian Landscape in Korea
Let’s be clear: vegetarianism is not yet mainstream in Korea. Unlike countries where “vegetarian” is a standard option on restaurant menus, in Korea, it often requires clarification and explanation. The concept of a dish being “vegetarian” can mean different things to locals—many believe removing visible meat is enough, even if broth or seasoning still contains animal products.
In Korean:
“I don’t eat meat” = 고기 안 먹어요 (gogi an meogeoyo)
“I’m a vegetarian” = 저는 채식주의자예요 (jeoneun chaesikjuuija-yeyo)
Still, awareness is slowly growing, especially in Seoul and among younger Koreans. Vegan cafes, Buddhist temple food, and even plant-based grocery items are becoming more accessible.
Know What to Avoid
To eat safely and confidently, it helps to understand what hidden non-vegetarian ingredients are most common in Korean food.
Watch out for:
Anchovy broth (멸치육수) in soups and stews
Fish sauce (액젓) in kimchi, stir-fries, and sauces
Beef broth in noodles (e.g., gomtang, seolleongtang)
Shrimp or crab paste in fermented dishes
Bonito flakes used in seasoning or garnish
Eggs and dairy if you’re vegan (less common in traditional dishes)
When in doubt, politely ask:
“이 음식에 고기나 해산물 들어가요?” (Does this food contain meat or seafood?)
Traditional Korean Dishes That Are (or Can Be) Vegetarian
Fortunately, there are several Korean dishes that are naturally vegetarian or easily modified.
Bibimbap (비빔밥) – Mixed Rice Bowl
This iconic dish is usually topped with vegetables, egg, and gochujang sauce.
Order tip: Ask for no beef and double vegetables.
Best places: Buddhist temple restaurants or cafeteria-style eateries.
Kimbap (김밥) – Korean Seaweed Rolls
Most kimbap contains ham or crab sticks, but yachae kimbap (야채김밥) is filled with only vegetables.
Order tip: Double-check that no meat or fishcake is inside.
Convenience store options: Some CU and GS25 branches offer veggie versions.
Doenjang Jjigae (된장찌개) – Soybean Paste Stew
Usually made with fermented soybean paste and tofu.
Warning: Many versions are made with anchovy broth or contain clams.
Order tip: Ask for vegetarian broth and no seafood.
Japchae (잡채) – Glass Noodles with Vegetables
A classic party dish made with sweet potato noodles and stir-fried vegetables.
Order tip: Ask to omit meat—usually beef strips.
Banchan (반찬) – Side Dishes
Many banchan are vegetable-based: pickled cucumbers, sautéed spinach, marinated bean sprouts, lotus root, and more.
Caution: Some are seasoned with fish sauce or anchovy-based sauces.
Buddhist Temple Food: The Ultimate Safe Zone
One of the best-kept secrets for vegetarians in Korea is temple cuisine (사찰음식). Rooted in Buddhist tradition, it’s entirely plant-based—no meat, no fish, no pungent ingredients like garlic or green onions.
You can find temple restaurants in cities like:
Seoul: Balwoo Gongyang (near Jogyesa Temple)
Busan: Baru
Jeonju: Several small vegetarian cafes near Hanok Village
These meals are not only safe for vegetarians, but they’re also incredibly nutritious, beautifully presented, and deeply connected to Korean heritage.
Eating Out: What to Expect and Where to Go
Eating out as a vegetarian in Korea can be tricky, but certain types of restaurants are more accommodating than others.
1. Buffet Restaurants (뷔페)
Many have salad bars and vegetable dishes. Some vegan buffets exist, especially in Seoul.
Try: Marché, Loving Hut Buffet (vegan)
2. Korean Buddhist Restaurants
No animal products used. Often reservation-only or set-menu.
Try: Balwoo Gongyang, Sanchon
3. Foreign Food Restaurants
Italian, Indian, Mediterranean, and Thai places often have vegetarian options.
Try: Everest (Nepali), Plant (Vegan cafe), Hummus Kitchen
4. Vegan Cafes
Seoul especially has a growing list of plant-based cafes.
Try: Plant (Itaewon), Cafe Sukkara (Hongdae), Root Cafe
Grocery Shopping as a Vegetarian
While restaurants might be a challenge, grocery stores offer much more control over your meals. Here’s what you can find and where:
Tofu and Soy Products: Widely available and cheap
Fresh produce: Excellent quality in markets and big chains
Imported vegan items: iHerb, High Street Market, Foreign Food Mart (Itaewon)
Vegan snacks: Check the CU and GS25 shelves for tofu chips, rice crackers, and even vegan ramyeon (some by Ottogi)
Most larger stores like E-Mart, Homeplus, and Lotte Mart have basic vegan and vegetarian groceries, though labeling is inconsistent—so it’s worth learning to read basic ingredient terms.
Learning to Cook at Home
If you’re living in Korea for the long term, the best way to eat vegetarian consistently is to cook for yourself. Korean cuisine includes many ingredients you can work with:
Doenjang (fermented soybean paste) – base for soups and sauces
Gochujang (chili paste) – check for anchovy-free versions
Kim (roasted seaweed) – snack or rice wrap
Sesame oil, tofu, perilla leaves, and mushrooms – pantry staples
Many online creators share Korean vegan recipes adapted for international kitchens. You can also find vegan Korean cookbooks written in English.
Surviving Social Meals and Group Dining
Dining out with Korean friends or coworkers is a big part of the culture, and most social events involve meat—KBBQ, fried chicken, or spicy stew. So how can vegetarians survive group dinners without offending anyone?
Tips:
Speak up early when the group is deciding where to eat
Offer to recommend a neutral place with options (bibimbap, buffets, foreign food)
Eat beforehand if needed and focus on side dishes
Politely explain your dietary needs (Koreans are usually understanding once informed)
Living Meat-Free in Korea Is Challenging—but Possible
Being vegetarian in Korea is absolutely possible with the right preparation and attitude. While the local food culture isn’t designed with vegetarians in mind, the rise of global eating trends, vegan cafes, and health-conscious youth is slowly changing that.
Whether you’re staying for a few weeks or a few years, learning how to navigate markets, restaurants, and social settings will make your experience smoother—and tastier. And who knows? You might just discover new dishes and traditions you wouldn’t have tried otherwise.