Vegetarian and Halal Food
Eating vegetarian or halal in Korea — where to find suitable food, what to ask for, and how to explain allergies in Korean.
Vegetarian food in Korea
Vegetarian food is becoming easier to find in Seoul, but it is not yet common everywhere. Many Korean dishes contain meat, fish sauce, or anchovy broth, even when they look vegetarian. Buddhist temple restaurants and dedicated vegetarian cafes are the safest options, and Itaewon and Hongdae have the most choice.
What to ask for
The Korean word for vegetarian is 'chaesik', and 'gogi eopseo' means 'without meat'. However, you should also mention fish and seafood, because some people in Korea consider fish to be vegetarian. A written card in Korean explaining your diet is very helpful — show it to the server before ordering.
Halal food
Halal restaurants are concentrated in Itaewon, near the Seoul Central Mosque, and are growing in other tourist areas. Look for halal certification signs, and check with the restaurant if you are unsure. Some Korean dishes are naturally halal, such as certain vegetable and seafood dishes, but always ask about the sauce and broth.
Allergies
If you have a food allergy, carry a card in Korean that explains it clearly — for example, 'I am allergic to peanuts. Please do not use peanuts.' Korean law requires major allergens to be listed on packaged food, but restaurant menus may not list them. When in doubt, ask the staff before eating.
Convenience stores and supermarkets
Convenience stores sell vegetarian and vegan options such as salads, fruit, and rice balls, and they are clearly labelled. Large supermarkets have a growing range of vegetarian products. If you are staying in an apartment with a kitchen, cooking for yourself is the easiest way to control your diet.