#South Korea #Seoul #Michelin #KoreanCuisine #FoodTourism

South Korea: A Rising Culinary Powerhouse

As the world embraces culinary tourism, South Korea has firmly planted its flag as one of the leading food destinations globally. The latest MICHELIN Guide for 2025 showcases an astounding 40 MICHELIN-starred restaurants in Seoul and Busan, a testament to the nation’s commitment to innovative and cultural dining. With projections estimating that the culinary tourism market will soar from $1.17 billion in 2025 to $3.77 billion by 2032, it’s no wonder travelers are increasingly drawn to South Korea for its authentic and dynamic food scene. In fact, a recent survey revealed that 64% of visitors cited culinary experiences as the primary driver for their travels to the country.

In a culinary landscape where traditions meet innovation, South Korea offers more than just meals; it provides profound cultural experiences that reflect its rich history. Centuries-old fermentation practices, sustainable temple food traditions, and cutting-edge plant-based cuisine are just a glimpse into what visitors can expect. The inclusion of jang-making techniques—a method for crafting fermented soybean sauces—on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list, alongside the well-known kimjang for kimchi, reveals the depth of South Korea’s food heritage.

This year’s MICHELIN accolades shine a spotlight on some exceptional restaurants:

• - LÉGUME (1 Star): Making its mark as Seoul's first vegan restaurant to earn a MICHELIN star, Légume stands out as one of only 10 vegan MICHELIN-starred venues worldwide. Chef Sung Si-woo transformed a vision into reality during challenging times, placing plant-based dining at the forefront of Seoul's culinary evolution.

• - MINGLES (3 Stars): Chef Kang Min-goo's flagship establishment, Mingles, is celebrated for its sophisticated twists on traditional Korean flavors. This 3-star accolade represents the pinnacle of Korean fine dining, establishing it as a crucial destination for gourmet travelers seeking unique culinary experiences.

• - ESCONDIDO (1 Star): Noteworthy for being Asia's first Mexican restaurant to receive a MICHELIN star, Escondido exemplifies South Korea's quick embrace of culinary diversity and global fusion.

In total, the MICHELIN Guide 2025 highlights 186 restaurants in Seoul and 48 in Busan, categorized under Starred, Bib Gourmand, and Selected, featuring 29 new entries. Gwendal Poullennec, the international director of the MICHELIN Guide, expressed, “This year’s selection showcases a great variety of restaurants featuring new styles of cuisine and unique offerings reflecting the steady development of the Korean dining scene.”

As South Korea continues to rise, it is not only retaining its heritage but also setting the pace for culinary excellence on the global stage. The merging of deep-rooted traditions with modern culinary techniques positions Korea as a leader in the food movement, attracting adventurous eaters worldwide.

The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) actively markets Korea as a vibrant, multifaceted travel destination, inviting guests to explore the nation’s rich history, welcoming people, and extraordinary landscapes. From ancient sites like Bulguksa to the contemporary skyline punctuated by Lotte World Tower, the experiences awaiting visitors are as diverse as its gastronomic offerings.

For lovers of food and culture alike, South Korea promises unforgettable memories that bridge the gap between tradition and modernity, making it an essential stop for those looking to indulge in a profound culinary journey.