5 Best Korean Late-Night Snacks to Try
The Ultimate Yasik Guide
How’s Your Night?
In Korea, there is a specific word for food eaten late at night: Yasik. While eating late is often considered a “guilty pleasure” due to health concerns, it’s an easy way to unwind after a long day. It’s not a grand tradition or a ritual; it’s simply the undeniable craving for something spicy, salty, or fried once the sun goes down. If you’ve ever wondered what the best midnight snack is to pair with a K-drama, or if you’re looking for authentic Korean late night snacks to try at home, here is a practical guide to the real favorites in Korea.
The Temptation of Yasik
The term “Yasik” is so common that it’s a standard part of our lifestyle. Whether it’s a quick bite while watching a movie or a casual way to hang out with friends late at night, these snacks are a way to end the day on a tastier note. The biggest reason Korean midnight snacks are so prevalent is the country’s 24/7 delivery culture. In major cities like Seoul, the streets are busy with delivery bikes even at 1:00 AM. Whether you are at home, in a hotel, or even sitting by the Han River, a hot meal is usually just a few taps away.
Beyond the convenience, Korean late night snacks are the ultimate stress-reliever. After long working hours or intense study sessions, many Koreans look for a quick “flavor hit” to end the day. It’s less about a formal meal and more about a casual, high-calorie treat that makes the night a bit more enjoyable.
5 Recommended Late-Night Korean Snacks
If you are looking for the ultimate Korean late night snacks, these five are the absolute staples of the Korean late-night snack scene.
1. Fried Chicken : The Undisputed King
Many Koreans choose fried chicken and beer, better known as “chimaek,” as their favorite yasik. It has been the top choice for decades. The “Maek” in the name comes from Maekju (beer). It’s a classic choice because the cold carbonation balances the fried texture perfectly.
2. Ramyeon (Korean Ramen): The Pantry Staple
While Korean ramen is a quick meal at home, there is a special charm to eating a cup of ramyeon at a convenience store’s outdoor table on a breezy night. While Buldak is famous globally, most locals go for classic broth-based ramyeon like Shin Ramyun or Jin Ramyeon for that warm, comforting feeling.
3. Jokbal & Bossam: The Guilt-Free Feast
If you want something substantial and slightly “healthier” (in your mind, at least!), Jokbal (braised pig’s trotters) and Bossam (boiled pork slices) are the go-to Korean midnight snacks. Rich in protein and collagen, they are often perceived as a sturdier meal compared to fried snacks.
4. Ppyeo-haejang-guk (Pork Backbone Soup): The Hidden Gem
This soup might not be as famous to foreigners yet, but I personally recommend it with all my heart. This deep, savory broth with tender meat falling off the bone literally melts away your fatigue. While it’s officially a “hangover soup,” many people eat it late at night because it’s filling and warm.
5. Tteokbokki: The Spicy Comfort
When you crave a mix of spicy and sweet, nothing beats Tteokbokki. It’s one of the most recognized delicious K-drama night snacks, often paired with fried Gimmari (fried seaweed rolls) or fried vegetables to soak up the extra sauce.
The Perfect Match: Classic Drink Pairings
In Korea, the drink is often chosen specifically to match the food’s profile. A true midnight snack in Korea is often defined by its pairing.
- Chicken + Beer (Chimaek): As mentioned, the crispness of beer is the standard match for fried chicken. That first crunchy bite followed by a cold sip of beer is the perfect reward for a hard day’s work.
- Hoe(Raw fish) + Soju (Hoe-Sso): We call this combination “Hoe-Sso.” A shot of clean, cold Soju is the standard match for the fresh, delicate taste of raw fish.
- Jokbal + Somaek: While Soju alone is great, I personally prefer Somaek (a mix of Soju and Beer) with Jokbal. The smooth yet heavy hit of the mix perfectly complements the rich flavors of the pork.
Try it at Home: Easy Korean Midnight Snacks
Since 24-hour delivery isn’t available everywhere, you can still recreate easy Korean midnight snacks at home. You don’t need to be a professional chef; it’s all about having the right sauce.
If you want to try it yourself, I recommend buying pre-made Tteokbokki sauce or Yangnyeom (sweet and spicy) chicken sauce. Simply air-fry some frozen chicken or boil rice cakes and toss them in the sauce. You can have a taste of Seoul’s night streets in just 10 minutes.
My Midnight Prep Kit
Classic Korean Ramen Multi-pack
Authentic Tteokbokki Sauce Kit
Korean Yangnyeom Chicken Sauce
Your Night Deserves a Delicious End
Ultimately, a midnight snack is just a small way to make the end of the day better. Whether it’s a simple bowl of ramyun or a full spread, it’s a common part of navigating the long nights in Korea. Next time you’re settling in for a K-drama, why not try one of these 5 recommended late-night Korean snacks? It might just be the perfect way to turn a normal evening into a special one.
