Budget Bites: Pinoy-Approved Korean Street Food Under ₱200

Seoul is a paradise for food lovers, and the best part? You don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy its incredible street food scene. From spicy tteokbokki to crispy hotteok, the city is packed with delicious bites that fit right into a budget-friendly food trip. If you’re wondering how much you need to set aside for snacking your way through Seoul, here’s a guide to some must-try Korean street foods and their prices in both Korean Won (KRW) and Philippine Pesos (PHP).

Also read: How to Travel South Korea on a Budget Without Missing Out

The ultimate budget-friendly Korean street food guide

Tteokbokki (떡볶이) – ₱105 to ₱168

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If there’s one street food that defines Korean food culture, it’s tteokbokki. These chewy rice cakes are drenched in a thick, spicy-sweet sauce that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you like it extra spicy or on the milder side, tteokbokki is a must-try. For about 2,500 to 4,000 KRW, you can get a generous serving—perfect for sharing or for solo munching while exploring the city. Think of it as Korea’s answer to spicy palabok but with a chewy twist!

Gimbap (김밥) – ₱63

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Think of gimbap as Korea’s version of sushi, but with its own unique twist. It’s made with rice, veggies, and sometimes meat, all rolled in seaweed. Gimbap is cheap, filling, and easy to eat on the go, making it a top choice for travellers looking for a quick bite. At around 1,500 KRW, it’s an absolute steal! If you love lumpiang shanghai, this might just be your new favourite snack.

Mandu (만두) – ₱126

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Korean dumplings, or mandu, are little pockets of joy stuffed with meat, veggies, or kimchi. They can be steamed, boiled, or fried, and they’re perfect for when you want something warm and satisfying. A serving typically costs around 3,000 KRW, and trust—it’s worth every bite. It’s like biting into a bigger, juicier siomai!

Hotteok (호떡) – ₱84 to ₱126

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If you have a sweet tooth, hotteok will be your new obsession. These Korean pancakes are stuffed with brown sugar, honey, nuts, and cinnamon, then fried to golden perfection. The moment you take a bite, the filling oozes out in the best way possible. Prices range from 2,000 to 3,000 KRW, and they’re especially comforting during Seoul’s chilly seasons. Imagine a crispier, stuffed version of piaya!

Bungeo-ppang (붕어빵) – ₱42

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A fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet red bean paste, bungeo-ppang is a fun and delicious snack that costs just 1,000 KRW. Some stalls offer different fillings like custard or chocolate, so don’t be afraid to try different variations! Think of it as Korea’s take on our hopia but with a crunchy exterior.

Odeng (오뎅) – ₱21

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For something savoury, odeng (fish cake) is a great choice. Served on skewers and paired with a light broth, it’s an easy snack that warms you up instantly. Plus, it’s one of the most affordable street foods in Seoul, costing only around 500 KRW per skewer.

Cheese skewers & baked scallops – ₱126 to ₱420

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If you’re a cheese lover, look out for mozzarella cheese skewers grilled alongside rice cakes for an indulgent treat (about 3,000 KRW). For something even fancier, some vendors sell baked scallops topped with melted mozzarella and cheddar (around 10,000 KRW). While these are on the pricier side, they’re totally worth it if you want to treat yourself.

Where to find the best street food

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For the ultimate street food experience, head to Myeongdong—one of Seoul’s busiest shopping districts where food stalls line the streets. If you prefer a more local vibe, check out Gwangjang Market, famous for its traditional food scene. No matter where you go, you’re guaranteed to find something delicious.

Where to Try These in the Philippines

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If you’re craving these treats before your Korea trip, you can find Korean street food at places like Korean marts in Makati, Quezon City, and BGC, or food parks that specialise in Asian cuisine. Some Korean restaurants even serve freshly made tteokbokki and gimbap!

Budget Tips for Pinoys Traveling to Korea

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Want to make the most of your food budget? Here are some travel hacks:

Use a T-Money card – Not only does it save you money on public transport, but some convenience stores also offer small discounts when you pay with it.

Go for set meals – Some street food stalls offer combo deals that include tteokbokki, gimbap, and odeng for a lower price.

Bring cash – Many small vendors only accept cash, so it’s best to have some Korean Won in small bills.

Also read: Filipino Foodie’s Guide to Seoul: 10 Must-Try Korean Dishes and Best Places to Eat

Street Food Etiquette in Korea

Before you dive into Seoul’s street food scene, keep these etiquette tips in mind:

Avoid eating while walking – Unlike in the Philippines where eating on the go is normal, in Korea, it’s more common to stand near the stall while you eat.

Dispose of waste properly – Some stalls provide bins, but if there aren’t any, keep your trash until you find one.

Be mindful of queues – Popular stalls can get crowded, so wait patiently for your turn.

Seoul’s street food is not just about eating—it’s an experience. And the best part? You don’t need a big budget to enjoy it. Whether you’re a fan of sweet, savoury, or spicy flavours, there’s something for every craving. So, next time you’re in Korea, make sure to snack your way through the streets and discover why Seoul is a foodie’s dream destination!