10 Vegan Korean Foods You’ll Love + 3 Must-Visit Seoul Vegan Cafés

10 Must-Try Vegan Korean Dishes and Best Vegan Spots in Seoul (2025)


🌿 10 Must-Try Vegan Korean Dishes — No Meat, No Problem!

So you’re vegan and planning a trip to Korea? No stress — you won’t be stuck eating just plain rice here! From temple food to fun street eats, Korea’s got plenty of tasty options for plant-based foodies.


🥗 1. Bibimbap (비빔밥) — Colorful Rice Bowl

Bibimbap is a classic. Just skip the egg and meat and you’re good to go! Lots of spots around Insadong or Hongdae have vegan-friendly versions.

How to order: “Gogi baejuseyo, gyeran baejuseyo” (고기 빼주세요, 계란 빼주세요) — just say “No meat, no egg please.”

Where to try: Osegyehyang in Insadong — so fresh and peaceful inside!


🍙 2. Yachae Kimbap (야채 김밥) — Veggie Seaweed Rolls

Kimbap is kinda like Korean sushi, but way more casual. Many shops (like Kim Seonsaeng) have veggie-only rolls with spinach, radish, and carrot.

Pro tip: Double-check for ham or egg — just say “Ham baejuseyo, gyeran baejuseyo.”


🍜 3. Japchae (잡채) — Glass Noodles

Sweet, chewy glass noodles with veggies — so good! Some street stalls add beef though, so it’s safer at temple restaurants.

Try it at: Balwoo Gongyang near Jogyesa Temple — all vegan and super cozy vibes.


🥟 4. Kimchi Mandu (김치 만두) — Kimchi Dumplings

Be careful — regular dumplings often have pork. But lots of vegan cafés do kimchi dumplings that are spicy, light, and totally plant-based.

Love this at: Plant Café in Itaewon — so cute and friendly!


🥣 5. Doenjang Jjigae (된장찌개) — Soybean Stew

This cozy stew can be vegan if there’s no seafood stock. Lots of vegan restaurants make it with mushrooms and tofu instead. So warm on a chilly day!

How to ask: “Haesamul baejuseyo” (해산물 빼주세요) — “No seafood please.”


🍢 6. Tteokbokki (떡볶이) — Spicy Rice Cakes

Spicy, chewy rice cakes — street food heaven! Some stalls add fish cake, so just ask “Eomuk baejuseyo” (어묵 빼주세요). Best spots? Try Hongdae or Mangwon Market.


🥬 7. Temple Food — Vegan Buffets

If you wanna try real traditional vegan Korean food, go for temple cuisine. Balwoo Gongyang and Barugongyang serve 100% Buddhist vegan meals. So calm and delicious.


🍠 8. Sweet Potatoes (Goguma, 고구마)

When it’s cold, roasted sweet potatoes are literally everywhere. Cheap, sweet, warm — perfect winter snack.


🥒 9. Namul Banchan (나물 반찬) — Veggie Sides

These little seasoned veggies come free with meals — bean sprouts, spinach, radish. Just check there’s no fish sauce in them!


🍧 10. Patbingsu (팥빙수) — Red Bean Shaved Ice

Sweet treat alert! Patbingsu is a summer fave — fluffy shaved ice with red bean. Many cafés offer soy or almond milk options now. So refreshing!


🌱 3 Vegan Restaurants in Seoul You’ll Love

🥗 1) Plant Café & Kitchen (Itaewon)

Probably the most famous vegan spot in Seoul — chill brunch vibes, fresh bowls, and crazy good cakes. I had the lentil burger and loved it! Cute cozy vibe and lots of English speakers.

🍜 2) Osegyehyang (Insadong)

Hidden gem near Insadong — traditional Korean temple food, big portions, peaceful inside. Their vegan dumplings and bibimbap are delicious. Super friendly staff too!

🍲 3) Loving Hut Café (Various Spots)

Global vegan chain — super affordable and easy. I had vegan kimchi stew on a rainy day — perfect comfort food. Good for a quick meal when you’re exploring the city.


🚦 Getting Around Seoul

Planning to café-hop your way around Seoul’s vegan spots? Here’s a quick guide on how to use public transportation in Korea — super handy if you don’t want to get lost!

💬 Got any other vegan tips for Korea? Drop them in the comments — let’s help each other eat well!

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