Korea Summer Food Guide 2026: From Samgyetang to Bingsu, Flavors to Beat the Heat

Korean summers are characterized by high humidity and rising temperatures, making it easy to lose energy. For Koreans, summer gastronomy is more than just a culinary pleasure; it is an essential way to maintain health. From the unique 'health food' culture of "beating the heat with heat," to refreshing delicacies that cool you to your core.

In this guide, we introduce five must-try summer dishes during your trip to Korea and the fascinating food culture stories behind them. Are you ready to pick up your chopsticks?

What you will learn in this post:

The protagonist of 'Iyeolchiyeol' (beating heat with heat): Samgyetang and the culture of Boknal
The two pillars of Naengmyeon: A perfect comparison between Pyongyang Naengmyeon and Hamhung Naengmyeon
2026 Boknal (Chobok, Jungbok, Malbok) schedule and how to enjoy health food
The lifelong debate among Koreans: Kongguksu, sugar vs. salt
The world of regional Mulhoe (cold raw fish soup) and sweet Bingsu

Korean Summer Food Culture: The Wisdom of Iyeolchiyeol (以熱治熱)

Koreans have long believed that eating only cold food in hot weather can make your stomach cold and lead to indigestion. Thus, they exercise the wisdom of 'Iyeolchiyeol', eating hot food to induce sweating and regulate body temperature. Of course, a bowl of refreshing Bingsu after a piping hot bowl of Samgyetang is the true completion of a Korean summer.

1. Enjoying Summer the Hottest Way: Samgyetang and Boknal

In Korea, there are 'Boknal' (Chobok, Jungbok, and Malbok) days, which signify the hottest days of the year. During this period, long lines form in front of restaurants to eat healthy food.

Samgyetang: A dish made by stuffing a young chicken with glutinous rice, ginseng, garlic, and jujube, and simmering it thoroughly. The warming properties of ginseng and garlic replenish the energy drained by the summer heat.
[Check] 2026 Boknal Schedule:
- Chobok: July 15 (Wed)
- Jungbok: July 25 (Sat)
- Malbok: August 14 (Fri)
Tip: Since the summer of 2026 is expected to be hotter than usual, it is recommended to replenish your energy with Samgyetang before you feel exhausted, rather than just on Boknal. Famous Samgyetang restaurants are extremely crowded on Boknal, so it is wise to visit a day before or after.

2. Refreshing Noodle Dishes to Stimulate Appetite: Naengmyeon and Kongguksu

When appetite is lost due to the heat, the first things Koreans look for are cold noodle dishes.

Naengmyeon: Pyongyang Naengmyeon with clear broth offers a clean, subtle taste, while Hamhung Naengmyeon with spicy sauce is appealing for its chewy texture.
Kongguksu: A dish of noodles served in a cold, blended soybean broth. Whether to add 'sugar' for a sweet taste or 'salt' for a savory one is a fun topic of debate that divides Koreans by region. The Jeolla province prefers sugar, while other regions mostly prefer salt.

3. Freshness of the Sea in a Bowl: Mulhoe (Cold Raw Fish Soup)

If you travel to a coastal city, don't miss Mulhoe. It is a delicacy made by mixing fresh raw fish and vegetables in a spicy and sweet icy broth.

Regional Differences: Gangwon-do's version has a strong spicy taste based on Gochujang (red chili paste), while Jeju-do's version is characterized by a savory taste based on Doenjang (soybean paste). In Busan or Pohang, it is common to mix the raw fish first before pouring in the broth.

4. Sweet and Cool Finishes: Patbingsu and Fruit Bingsu

When you think of Korean summer desserts, Bingsu comes to mind first. It is fun to eat finely shaved ice topped with various ingredients.

Patbingsu: The basic style topped with traditional red beans and rice cakes. Recently, it has become even smoother by using milk-based ice.
Fruit Bingsu: Bingsu topped generously with seasonal summer fruits like mango, watermelon, and melon. In particular, Jeju Island's apple mango bingsu is expensive but boasts a uniquely special taste.

Tips: How to Order Smarter at Korean Restaurants

Apron: Naengmyeon or Mulhoe broth can splash. Feel free to grab an apron hanging on the restaurant wall.
Side Dish Refills: Most side dishes in Korean restaurants can be refilled for free. If you need more, don't hesitate to say "deo juseyo" (please give me more).
Using Scissors: Korean noodle dishes have very long strands. It is perfectly fine to ask for scissors to cut them into manageable sizes.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I cannot eat spicy food, are there any recommended summer dishes?
A: We recommend savory Kongguksu, the subtle charm of Pyongyang Naengmyeon (Mul-naengmyeon), or the hot but non-spicy Samgyetang. Bingsu is also a great choice.

Q: Should I eat the jujube or ginseng inside the Samgyetang?
A: While it is good to eat the ginseng for energy replenishment, many people choose not to eat the jujube as it is said to absorb the toxins from the chicken. However, it is perfectly safe to eat since it is cooked thoroughly.

Conclusion

Korean summer food is filled with the wisdom and care of Koreans, who turn the struggle of the heat into enjoyment. Sweat it out with a bowl of hot Samgyetang, cool down with refreshing Naengmyeon, and wrap up with a sweet Bingsu. We hope your Korean summer trip is filled with delicious memories!

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