A Guide to Vegetarian and Vegan Food in Korea

Korea's food culture is meat-heavy at first glance, but vegetarian and vegan options have been steadily growing. With a little know-how, eating well isn't hard.

Where to eat

Temple food (사찰음식) — traditional Buddhist cuisine that skips meat and the five pungent vegetables (garlic, onion, and similar alliums).
Dedicated vegan restaurants — a growing scene, especially in Seoul and other major cities.
Vegetarian-friendly items at regular restaurants — bibimbap without the meat, seasoned vegetable side dishes (namul), and tofu-based dishes.

Watch for hidden ingredients

Many soups and side dishes are made with anchovy or shrimp stock. Asking "고기·생선 없이 되나요?" ("Can this be made without meat or fish?") is the safest way to check.

Useful phrases

"저는 채식해요" (jeoneun chaesik-haeyo) — "I'm vegetarian."
"고기 빼고 주세요" (gogi ppaego juseyo) — "Please leave out the meat."
"해산물도 안 먹어요" (haesanmuldo an meogeoyo) — "I don't eat seafood either" (useful if you're vegan, since "vegetarian" alone is often assumed to allow fish or broth).

A map app or a vegan-community app makes it much easier to find nearby vegetarian and vegan restaurants.