Must-Try Autumn Foods in Korea

Korea's fall season is a time when you can enjoy a variety of seasonal dishes along with the cool breeze.

If you're planning to visit Korea in the autumn, let me introduce some must-try fall dishes.

In this post, we'll be covering songpyeon (Korean rice cakes), grilled fish(Jeon-eo), chestnut dishes, grilled shrimp(Daeha), and pumpkin porridge!

Songpyeon (Korean Rice Cakes)

One of the iconic foods of Korea’s autumn festival, Chuseok, is songpyeon. These half-moon shaped rice cakes are filled with a variety of ingredients such as red beans, sesame seeds, and soybeans, then steamed to perfection. The process of making songpyeon is also a time for families to gather and continue a cherished tradition. For foreign visitors, it’s a wonderful opportunity to experience both the flavors and the cultural heritage of Korea. If you're in Korea during Chuseok, make sure to try songpyeon!

Songpyeon (Korean Rice Cakes)
[ⓒ한국관광공사 포토코리아-토라이 리퍼블릭]

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Grilled fish(Jeon-eo)

A popular autumn dish is grilled fish(Jeon-eo). This fish is at its tastiest in autumn, and the rich, savory aroma of it grilling fills the air, enticing anyone nearby. There's even a saying in Korea "The head of an autumn grilled fish contains three bowls of sesame seeds." highlighting its exceptional taste. With its crispy texture and deep umami flavor, grilled fish offers a true taste of Korea’s autumn. Don’t miss out on this delicious seasonal treat!

Grilled fish(Jeon-eo)

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Chestnut Dishes

Autumn in Korea is a season for harvesting sweet chestnuts. Not only are they enjoyed as snacks, but chestnuts are also used in a variety of dishes, from chestnut-infused rice to sweet chestnut preserves, and even nutritious chestnut porridge. The nutty and sweet flavor of chestnuts makes them a popular choice for both locals and foreigners. If you're visiting Korea in the fall, trying out chestnut dishes is a must!

Chestnut Dishes

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Grilled Shrimp (Daeha)

Autumn is the perfect time to enjoy grilled shrimp (Daeha), as they are plump and full of flavor during this season. Simply grilling them with a sprinkle of salt enhances the savory, juicy taste of the shrimp, making it a favorite dish not only for Koreans but also for international visitors. Grilled shrimp, with its burst of ocean freshness and tender texture, showcases the essence of autumn’s seafood. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor this delicious dish when you visit Korea in the fall.

Grilled Shrimp (Daeha)

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Pumpkin Porridge (hobakjuk)

In Korea, fall is the time when pumpkins are harvested in abundance, and one of the signature dishes made from them is pumpkin porridge (hobakjuk). This dish is smooth, sweet, and perfectly captures the warmth of the season. It’s especially comforting in the cooler weather, as it has a warming effect on the body. With its gentle sweetness, pumpkin porridge is a dish that’s easy for foreigners to enjoy, and once you try it, you'll be captivated by its wholesome flavor. If you're looking to experience autumn in Korea, pumpkin porridge is a dish you shouldn't miss.

Pumpkin Porridge (hobakjuk)

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Korea's fall cuisine is fresh and full of rich flavors, thanks to the seasonal ingredients.

From songpyeon to grilled fish, chestnut dishes, grilled shrimp, and pumpkin porridge, you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Korea’s autumn through its food.

If you're planning a trip to Korea, don’t forget to apply for your K-ETA in advance, and be sure to indulge in these delicious seasonal dishes. 

ETAPORTAL will assist you throughout the K-ETA application process, helping you prepare for your trip to Korea quickly and easily.

Don't forget to apply for your K-ETA via ETAPORTAL to make your journey more enjoyable and smooth!