Must-Try Foods In Kaesong (North Korea) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Kaesong, North Korea

Kaesong, a historical city located in North Korea, carries a rich culinary heritage that has been influenced by its status as a former capital of the Koryo Dynasty. The city is renowned for its traditional Korean cuisine which has been preserved over generations. Due to its proximity to the border with South Korea, the food in Kaesong has been shaped by various cultural exchanges. The royalty of the Koryo Dynasty favored elaborate dishes with delicate flavors, a heritage that is still reflected in Kaesong's cuisine today. In particular, Kaesong is famous for its traditional Korean royal court food, known as 'Koryo hansik' which often features a variety of small dishes served with rice and soup.

Top 10 Food Dishes in Kaesong

1. Insam Cha (Ginseng Tea) – Veg: Kaesong is famous for ginseng, and ginseng tea is a popular traditional beverage with supposed health benefits.
2. Onban (Warm Rice Soup) – Non-Veg: A warm, comforting soup traditionally served with rice and various side dishes, often including chicken or pheasant.
3. Pansangi – Veg/Non-Veg: A traditional meal served in bronze bowls with an assortment of dishes that can be vegan or include seafood.
4. Kaesong Kimchi – Veg: Fermented vegetables, particularly napa cabbage, are a staple in Korean cuisine, and Kaesong has its unique versions.
5. Bossam Kimchi – Veg: A type of wrapped kimchi often stuffed with other ingredients for added texture and flavor.
6. Namul (Seasoned Vegetable Sides) – Veg: A variety of seasoned and marinated vegetables, tailored to the local taste.
7. Japchae (Glass Noodle Stir-fry) – Veg/Non-Veg: Stir-fried glass noodles mixed with vegetables, and sometimes beef, known for its sweet and savory flavor.
8. Tteok (Rice Cakes) – Veg: Steamed rice cakes that may be served in a variety of ways, often sweetened and coated with bean powder.
9. Bibimbap (Mixed Rice) – Veg/Non-Veg: Though commonly a mixed rice dish with vegetables and meat, a vegetarian version can be requested.
10. Yakbap (Sweet Rice Dessert) – Veg: A sweet treat made from glutinous rice, jujubes, chestnuts, pine nuts, and often honey or brown sugar.

Top Famous Restaurants in Kaesong

• Janamsan Hotel Restaurant
  Address: Songak-dong, Kaesong
  Famous Food: Onban (Non-Veg)
• Koryo Songgyungwan
  Address: Haebang Hill, Kaesong
  Famous Food: Pansangi (Veg/Non-Veg)
• Tongil Restaurant (Reunification Restaurant)
  Address: Panmunjom, Kaesong
  Famous Food: Bibimbap (Veg/Non-Veg)
• Minsok Hotel Restaurant
  Address: Kaesong Folk Hotel, Kaesong
  Famous Food: Traditional Korean set menu (Veg/Non-Veg)
• Thongmyong Restaurant
  Address: Kaesong Industrial Region, Kaesong
  Famous Food: Kaesong Kimchi (Veg)