Despite the fact I cannot speak Korean, I would like to share some insight on my ability to get food in South Korea. Having been raised in the United States, getting food was not very difficult. The common foods available in America include things like waffles, burgers, fries, fried chicken, etc. However, the foods provided in the United States have a very high fat content. So such things are available in wide abundance.
The United States offers food that is very high in fat, however, in South Korea it is quite easy to get food. My first favorite food is commonly referred to as kimchi stew, or in Korean, it is known as 김치 찌개. While in America, such things are priced quite expensive. It can range from $7-$12 USD. Despite the language barrier, Korean food is quite easy to get, even as a foreigner. My favorite foods include, Korean fried chicken, pork belly, ramen, kimchi jjigae, Subway, and beef tofu soup. While ramen is a traditional Japanese dish, it is quite common to find in South Korea. While Koreans may not like to admit it, Koreans are quite fond of Japanese cuisine items such as ramen noodles or sushi. The ramen that I have tried is roughly under $10 USD, but in Korean won currency, it costs about 9,500 Korean Won.
Compared to American cuisine, Korean food, is significantly lower in fat content, and is overall more healthy. Getting food on average in Korea will cost you about $10-$12 USD, but some locally owned restaurants will provide food at cheaper rates. Korean fried chicken is a personal favorite of mine, and will typically cost anywhere from $10-$20 USD, but it is quite normal even for USD standards because of nation-wide chicken shortage. So far, I have been in Korea for about 6 months, and can confidently say as an American, that Korean food is delicious, and not only that, it is very delicious for the price.
Despite being an American, I have grown quite accustomed to Korean foods since I was born. My mom is Korean and my father is American. So growing up, I have eaten a mix of both American and Korean cuisine. However, after moving to Korea, I much prefer Korean food over American food. Not only is it cheaper compared to American food, but it is overall more healthy and delicious. I have spent almost all my life in America, but I think I have truly been missing out on Korean culture, especially the food. I am so blessed to experience both American and Korean cuisine, but Korean food while always have my heart.
