Kfood, Experience the Deep Flavor and Charm of Sundaeguk!

What Does Sundaeguk Taste Like for Foreigners?



If you're looking for a local favorite while traveling in Korea, Sundaeguk is a must-try! The first thing you’ll notice about this dish is the rich aroma of the broth and the soft, chewy sundae (Korean blood sausage). Its appearance might seem unfamiliar at first, but once you take a bite, you’ll be captivated by the deep broth and the satisfying texture of the sundae. To enhance the flavor, many Koreans add savory perilla powder and salted shrimp, which elevate the umami taste. 


Sundaeguk is beloved as a hearty, everyday comfort food in Korea. On a cold day, a steaming bowl of this soup will warm your body and soul. It is also widely known as a hangover cure, making it a popular choice after a night out.

What Is Sundaeguk? 🥘

Sundaeguk is a rich, pork-bone broth soup that includes sundae (Korean blood sausage) and various pork cuts. Sundae itself is made by stuffing pig intestines with glass noodles, glutinous rice, pig’s blood, and vegetables, creating a chewy and mildly nutty taste.

Different regions in Korea offer their own variations of Sundaeguk. For instance, Seoul-style Sundaeguk features a light and clear broth, while Gyeongsang Province’s version has a spicier and more intense flavor. Meanwhile, Jeolla Province’s Sundaeguk is known for its rich, nutty broth enhanced with plenty of perilla powder. 😋

What Does Sundaeguk Taste Like? 😋

The deep and rich broth is the heart of Sundaeguk. Made by boiling pork bones for hours, the soup has a savory, umami-rich flavor that lingers on the palate. The first spoonful envelops your mouth with a warm and comforting taste.

Sundae itself has a unique combination of chewy and soft textures. The version made with glass noodles is slightly bouncy, while the one with pig’s blood offers a richer, nuttier taste. Eating sundae along with the broth creates a perfectly balanced flavor experience. To elevate the taste, Koreans often add salted shrimp, perilla powder, and minced garlic. If you enjoy spicy food, try mixing in chopped chili peppers or spicy red pepper paste (dadaegi)—this adds a pleasant kick and intensifies the depth of the broth.

How to Enjoy Sundaeguk to the Fullest 🍽️

Here are some tips to make your Sundaeguk experience even better:

  1. Add a bit of salted shrimp!

    • This enhances the umami flavor while balancing the pork’s natural taste.

  2. Mix in perilla powder and minced garlic

    • They add a deep, nutty aroma and a richer broth texture.

  3. Try adding chopped chili peppers or spicy paste (dadaegi) 🌶️

    • If you love spicy food, this will give your soup a bold and fiery kick!

  4. Eat it with rice, either mixed in or on the side

    • The combination of soup and rice makes for a hearty, satisfying meal.

Where to Try Sundaeguk in Korea 🏠

You can find Sundaeguk in countless places across Korea, but here are some well-known areas and restaurants for an authentic experience:

✅ Seoul: Famous spots in Noryangjin, Jongno, and Seongsu serve top-tier Sundaeguk. ✅ Busan: Known for its rich, slightly spicy broth, Sundaeguk here is similar to the region’s signature pork soup (Dwaeji Gukbap). ✅ Jeonju: A great place to try nutty, perilla-flavored Sundaeguk. ✅ Suwon ‘Sundae Town’: A cluster of restaurants specializing in various Sundae dishes, perfect for food lovers!

Don’t Miss Out on Sundaeguk When Visiting Korea! ✈️

Sundaeguk is a traditional yet humble Korean dish that offers deep, comforting flavors. It may seem unfamiliar at first, but one bite will make you appreciate its rich taste and warmth. If you ever visit Korea, make sure to try Sundaeguk! A hot bowl of this soup will soothe your soul and give you a taste of Korea’s local food culture. 😊



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