Korean Street Corn : That Taste K-Pop Stars Love! Enjoying Korean Corn

Korean Street Corn (Oksusu) is a popular and straightforward corn on the cob snack found throughout South Korea. It's typically prepared by boiling or steaming the fresh corn until tender, highlighting its natural sweetness and slightly chewy texture. While some modern variations exist with creamy toppings, the most common street version is appreciated for its simple, comforting, and wholesome taste, especially popular when corn is in season.


Key Information

  • Main Ingredients: Fresh corn on the cob, water (for cooking), sometimes salt, sugar, or butter. (Modern "K-elote" styles may include mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, cilantro.)

  • Side Dishes: Not typically served with side dishes; it's a standalone snack.

  • Pairing Beverages: Water, soda, iced tea.


Enjoyment Tips

  • Enjoy freshly cooked and warm for the best flavor and texture.

  • Seek out vendors who cook the corn on-site for optimal freshness.

  • It's a simple, wholesome treat that showcases the corn's inherent sweetness.

  • If available, try variations with a sprinkle of salt, sugar, or a light brushing of butter for added flavor.


Related Foods & Dining

  • Derivatives: "K-elote" (a Korean-style street corn with creamy and cheesy toppings), Corn Cheese (corn kernels baked with melted cheese, often served in a hot skillet).

  • Similar Foods: Corn on the cob (globally), Elote (Mexican street corn), Boiled/Steamed corn (various cuisines worldwide).

  • Restaurant Type: Street food, traditional markets.

  • Best Time to Eat: Snack, light meal.


Price & Preferences

  • Price per person: $2-$4

  • Foreigner Preference: ★★★★★★★☆☆☆ (7/10) - Appreciated for its natural taste and simplicity.

  • Spiciness: ★☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆ (0/10) - Unless a spicy seasoning is explicitly added.

  • Saltiness: ★★★☆☆☆☆☆☆☆ (3/10) - Can vary depending on whether salt is added.

  • Sweetness: ★★★★★★★★☆☆ (8/10) - Known for its prominent natural sweetness.


Top 5 Locations in Seoul (Foreigner Preference for Street Food)

(Korean street corn is almost exclusively found at street food stalls rather than formal restaurants. The best places to find it are in general street food hubs.)

  1. Gwangjang Market (Food Stalls): 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno 4(sa)-ga, Jongno-gu, Seoul

  2. Myeongdong Street (Street Food Stalls): Myeongdong-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul

  3. Namdaemun Market (Food Stalls): 21 Namdaemunsijang 4-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul

  4. Hongdae Street (Various Vendors): Eoulmadang-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul (around Hongik University Station area)

  5. Local Traditional Markets (e.g., Mangwon Market, Tongin Market): Various locations across Seoul. You will often find dedicated corn vendors within these markets. (Specific addresses vary per market).

 

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