To say that South Korea is obsessed with all things chewy is an understatement. From stretchy cheese to thick, satisfying glass noodles, South Korean cuisine is a chewy lover’s paradise. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to explore new textures, these top chewy foods and snacks are absolute must-tries!

1. Ggul Tteok

If you loved the childhood snack “Gushers,” you’ll adore ggul tteok. These colorful balls of rice cake burst with sweet honey, toasted sesame seeds, and sugar, creating a delightful explosion of flavor with every bite. By far, one of the chewiest and most satisfying snacks in Korean cuisine!

2. Garae-tteok

Plain on its own, garae-tteok is a versatile rice cake often used in the spicy and savory dish tteokbokki. However, it’s worth enjoying solo: try pan-frying it with a bit of oil for a crispy exterior and chewy inside. If you prefer a sweet twist, dip it in honey or granulated sugar for a simple yet satisfying treat.

3. Glass Noodles

These thick, chewy glass noodles are not for the faint of heart—they’re so satisfyingly dense that they take a little extra effort to chew and swallow! Often found in tteokbokki, they add a fun, stretchy texture to the dish. For a lighter take, try the thinner version of glass noodles used in the beloved stir-fried dish japchae.

4. Chapssal Doughnuts

A must-try street food, chapssal doughnuts are crispy on the outside and irresistibly chewy on the inside, thanks to the glutinous rice flour used in their dough. These round balls of fried goodness are often filled with sweet red bean paste, making them a perfect blend of textures and flavors.

5. Cheese Balls

Similar to chapssal doughnuts, cheese balls are savory fried bites made with glutinous rice flour. What makes them extra chewy is the generous amount of melted cheese inside. Each bite offers a double dose of chewiness, making them a favorite among cheese lovers.

6. Kkaechal Bbang

Don’t let the size of kkaechal bbang fool you—while it looks large and airy, the inside is completely hollow and incredibly chewy. Made with black sesame seeds that add a subtle nutty flavor, this bread has a unique texture similar to dried mochi. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience for your taste buds!

South Korea’s chewy delights go beyond just taste—they’re a sensory experience, offering playful textures and memorable flavors. Whether you’re snacking on ggul tteok or savoring a bowl of japchae, there’s something wonderfully satisfying about the chewiness that Korean cuisine has perfected.