Winter in Korea is cold, dry, and surprisingly delicious. As temperatures drop, street snack stalls begin to appear everywhere, filling the air with warm, comforting smells.

One winter classic is hotteok, a sweet pancake filled with brown sugar, nuts, and cinnamon. Crispy outside and gooey inside, it’s the perfect snack to eat while walking on a cold night.

Another favorite is odeng (fish cake) served in hot broth. Customers usually help themselves to a skewer and sip the soup from a paper cup. It’s simple, salty, and incredibly warming.

You’ll also see roasted sweet potatoes sold from metal drums. The smell alone is enough to stop people in their tracks. Koreans often associate this snack with childhood and winter memories.

For something heartier, tteokbokki remains popular even in winter. The spicy sauce feels extra satisfying in cold weather, especially when paired with sundae or tempura.

What makes Korean winter snacks special isn’t just the food—it’s the atmosphere. Standing next to a street stall, hands wrapped around something warm, feels like a shared seasonal experience.

If you’re visiting Korea in winter, don’t rush indoors. Some of the best flavors are waiting for you right on the street.