Uijeongbu-si Gyeonggi-do, South Korea Travel Guide
Uijeongbu's Budae Jjigae (부대찌개), or "Army Stew," originated during the Korean War. Locals combined surplus American processed foods featuring classic Korean ingredients like kimchi and gochujang. This recipe is Uijeongbu's iconic contribution to Korean cuisine, symbolizing resilience and adaptation.
ingredients include rice, various vegetables (kimchi cabbage, radish), meats (beef, pork, chicken), tofu, and noodles. Flavors lean towards fermented, spicy, savory, and umami, with gochujang, doenjang, ganjang, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil widely used.
Usually 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM. Can be a light traditional meal (rice, soup, kimchi) or Western-style.
Usually 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM. Often a main dish with Banchan. Look for Jeomsim teukseon (lunch specials).
Typically 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM. Often a more elaborate meal, possibly with spirits and liquors.
Uijeongbu's most famous dish: a spicy, hearty stew cooked at your table with ham, sausage, Spam, beans, kimchi, tofu, vegetables, and ramen noodles.
You can find it at Uijeongbu Budae Jjigae Street (의정부 부대찌개 거리).
Marinated grilled short ribs (pork or beef), enjoyed cooked at your table and wrapped in lettuce with garlic and Ssamjang.
Widely available in Korean BBQ restaurants.
Cold buckwheat noodles, especially refreshing in summer, often served in a tangy, icy broth.
Find at specialty noodle shops.
A communal kimchi-making action in autumn, preparing large batches for winter.
Songpyeon (half-moon rice cakes) for Chuseok; Tteokguk (rice cake soup) for Lunar New Year.
Uijeongbu has fewer dedicated upscale restaurants. Higher-end Korean BBQ or restaurants in hotels provide a more upscale experience.
These are abundant, specializing in dishes like Budae Jjigae, Korean BBQ, soups, and stews. Many casual Korean and having meals on foreign dishes chains are also here.
Affordable options are plentiful, from famous Budae Jjigae to market stalls and convenience store meals.
One of Gyeonggi-do's largest traditional markets. A great place for street food, fresh produce, and local eateries.
Offers a vivid glimpse into local life.
Beyond the main market, smaller food stalls operate throughout the city, offering quick and affordable bites.
Seek out hidden gems on side streets.
Pasta and pizza restaurants.
Burger and chicken chains.
Sushi and ramen shops.
Noodle and stir-fry places.
Brown sauce made from fermented soybeans, a staple, often contains wheat. Many Korean dishes use wheat-based noodles or sauces.
Communication can be difficult due to language barriers.
Dining with severe allergies is extremely challenging. Carry translated allergen cards.
Focus on simple, whole foods like grilled meat plus rice.
Utilize digital tools and preparation for easier dining.
For strict diets, buying ingredients at markets and preparing meals at your accommodation is a reliable approach.
Specific lessons on cooking for tourists in Uijeongbu are limited.
Gyeonggi-do is an agricultural region, but specific farm visits for tourists often require pre-arrangement.
The Uijeongbu Budae Jjigae Festival is held annually in autumn, celebrating the city's signature dish.
Street food and local markets offer fantastic flavors at accessible prices.
An affordable way to sample many dishes.
Colorful dishes and market scenes make for memorable photographs.
Capture your culinary journey.
Plan a visit to Uijeongbu Budae Jjigae Street to sample the city's signature stew. It is an unique and flavorful experience.
Explore Uijeongbu Jeil Market for authentic street food and local ingredients. A genuine taste of Korean daily life.
The area around Uijeongbu Station gets busy in the evening with many restaurants and bars, perfect for the evening meal and drinks.
Korean dining is a collective experience. Embrace sharing dishes and try a variety of side dishes (Banchan) that accompany most meals.
