Travel & Culture: What Happens When a Vegetarian Indian Moves to South Korea?

Moving to a new country is exciting, but it can feel like a food maze when you stick to a vegetarian diet. If you’re an Indian who loves plant‑based meals, South Korea might seem like a tough nut to crack. Let’s walk through the real‑life story of one traveler who figured it out, and pick up some handy tips you can use right away.

First steps: Spotting the vegetarian gaps

When you land in Seoul, the first thing you’ll notice is the love for meat‑heavy dishes – think bulgogi, galbi, and endless street‑side BBQ. That’s where the initial panic sets in. Our traveler found that most menus didn’t label vegetarian options, so a quick scan of the ingredients became a must‑do. A good trick is to learn a few Korean phrases like “채식”(chae‑sik) for vegetarian or “고기 빼 주세요”(go‑gi ppae ju‑se‑yo) meaning “no meat, please.” Even a simple “채식요리 있나요?” (Do you have vegetarian dishes?) can open doors.

Where to eat: From hidden gems to grocery aisles

After the first week, the search shifts from frantic to strategic. Look for Korean Buddhist temples – many serve temple food, which is naturally vegetarian. Places like “Balwoo Gongyang” offer nutritious, flavorful meals that respect a plant‑based diet. Next, scout out international neighborhoods. The Itaewon district, for example, houses Indian, Thai, and vegan cafés where you can enjoy familiar flavors or experiment with fusion plates.

Don’t forget the supermarkets. Stores such as Lotte Mart and E-Mart stock a growing range of imported Indian spices, lentils, and even ready‑made tofu. Grab a pack of kimchi that’s labeled “채식” and you’ve got a spicy side that fits your diet. Online delivery apps like Baedal Minjok now feature a “vegan” filter, making it easier to order from local restaurants without scrolling endlessly.

Cooking at home becomes a lifesaver, too. Most apartments come with a basic kitchen, and buying a small rice cooker, a wok, and a set of Korean sauces lets you whip up both Korean and Indian dishes. Our traveler’s go‑to meal was a quick stir‑fry of tofu, gochujang, and mixed veggies, followed by a side of steamed rice – simple, tasty, and budget‑friendly.

Beyond food, immersing yourself in the culture helps smooth the transition. Join expat meet‑ups, language exchange circles, or cultural festivals. Talking about your dietary needs in a friendly setting often leads locals to suggest hidden vegetarian spots you’d never find online.

Travel and culture are about adaptation, curiosity, and finding the sweet spot between staying true to yourself and embracing new experiences. Whether you’re planning a short trip or a long‑term stay, remember that every city has veg‑friendly corners – you just have to look a little deeper.

So, next time you pack your bags for South Korea, bring your favorite Indian spices, a few Korean phrases, and an open mind. The culinary adventure that awaits will surprise you, and you’ll come back with stories worth sharing in any travel & culture circle.