Halal Food in Korea: Best Muslim-Friendly Restaurants 2025

Korean cuisine is a bold and dynamic expression of the country’s deep-rooted traditions and seasonal abundance, shaped by centuries of history and cultural heritage 🇰🇷. It’s known for its perfect balance of spicy, savory, sour, and umami flavors, crafted using fermented ingredients like kimchi and gochujang, along with staples such as garlic, sesame oil, soy sauce, and red chili peppers. Each dish tells a story—whether it’s a humble bowl of bibimbap or a rich, bubbling pot of kimchi stew—making Korean food an unforgettable culinary experience.

About Halal Food

Halal food refers to food and drink that are permissible according to Islamic law. The word "halal" itself means "permissible" in Arabic, and it governs what Muslims are allowed to eat, drink, and consume in general. It is an important aspect of the Islamic faith, ensuring that food is prepared, handled, and consumed in a way that aligns with religious principles.

South Korea, known for its vibrant culture and cutting-edge innovation, is increasingly welcoming to Muslim travelers with a growing variety of halal food options 🇰🇷. While the country is predominantly non-Muslim, cities like Seoul, Busan, and Incheon have embraced halal-friendly dining, especially around popular tourist spots and university areas . The halal food scene in Korea beautifully combines authentic Korean flavors with Muslim dietary requirements, offering everything from halal bulgogi and bibimbap to international halal cuisine that’s both delicious and satisfying 😋

Must-Try Halal Local Dish in Korea

1. Halal Korean Fried Chicken That Hits the Spot 🍗

I found this spot in Itaewon, where a lot of Seoul’s halal restaurants are located. The place was casual and packed with both locals and tourists. When my plate of halal Korean fried chicken came out, it looked simple—crispy, golden pieces coated in a sticky red sauce. But one bite in, and I got it. The chicken was crunchy on the outside, juicy inside, and the sauce had just the right mix of sweet, spicy, and garlicky. I had it with pickled radish and a soft drink, which helped cut through the heat. It felt like something familiar, but with a totally new flavor twist.

📖 About Korean Fried Chicken (Halal Style)
Korean fried chicken is one of the country’s favorite dishes, and in Seoul, halal-certified versions make it easy for Muslim travelers to enjoy the same flavors without worry.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit
Great for Muslim travelers, groups of friends, and anyone who likes bold flavors without needing it too spicy.

💡 Pro Tips
🌸Go for boneless if you don’t want to deal with bones.
🌸“Yangnyeom” is the classic sweet-spicy sauce.
🌸Eat it with pickled radish—it comes with the meal.

2. Warm Comfort in a Bowl: Halal Bulgogi Hotpot 🍲

I tried halal bulgogi hotpot at Busan Jib in Itaewon, and it hit the spot after a long day. The bubbling pot came out with thin slices of beef, mushrooms, glass noodles, and a sweet-salty broth. The meat was tender and flavorful, and the broth had that perfect balance of soy, onion, and garlic. It wasn’t too spicy, which made it really easy to enjoy. I added a bowl of rice on the side and ended up finishing everything. Warm, filling, and simple—just the kind of comfort food I needed.

📖 About Bulgogi Hotpot
Bulgogi, meaning "fire meat," is a popular Korean dish made from marinated beef grilled or stewed. The hotpot version simmers everything together and is especially comforting in cooler weather. In Itaewon, halal versions are available using certified meats and alcohol-free marinades.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit
Great for families, couples, and anyone looking for non-spicy comfort food. Also good for first-time visitors to Korean cuisine.

💡 Pro Tips
🌸Ask if you want the broth less sweet—it’s customizable.
🌸Add rice to make it a full meal.
🌸Portions are generous; sharing is a good idea.

3. Flavorful Halal Kimchi Jjigae (Kimchi Stew) 🍜

I stopped by a halal-friendly restaurant in Itaewon to try the kimchi jjigae. When the stew arrived, the aroma of fermented kimchi mixed with savory broth immediately caught my attention. The broth was tangy and slightly spicy, with soft tofu and tender halal beef pieces soaking up the flavors. Each spoonful was warming and comforting, perfect for a chilly day. Paired with steamed rice, it made for a satisfying meal without feeling too heavy.

📖 About Kimchi Jjigae
Kimchi jjigae is a classic Korean stew made with fermented kimchi, tofu, and meat. In halal versions, pork is replaced with beef or chicken, keeping the dish flavorful but adhering to halal standards.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit
Great for spice lovers and those wanting a hearty Korean stew without pork.

💡 Pro Tips
🌸Ask for mild or medium spice if you prefer less heat.
🌸Try it with kimchi pancakes on the side for a fuller meal.
🌸Share with friends to sample other halal Korean dishes too.

4. Hearty Halal Jajangmyeon (Black Bean Noodles) 🍜

I found a cozy halal restaurant in Seoul’s Itaewon district to try halal jajangmyeon. When the dish arrived, the glossy black bean sauce coated the thick noodles perfectly. The sauce was rich and savory with chunks of halal chicken and vegetables, giving each bite a satisfying depth of flavor. The noodles were chewy and soaked up the sauce well, making it a comforting and filling meal. It’s a great option for anyone wanting a classic Korean noodle dish without worrying about pork or non-halal ingredients.

📖 About Jajangmyeon
Jajangmyeon is a Korean-Chinese noodle dish topped with a thick black bean paste sauce, usually made with pork. The halal version swaps pork for chicken or beef while keeping the traditional flavors intact.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit
Good for noodle lovers, families, and anyone looking for halal comfort food.

💡 Pro Tips
🌸Mix in some pickled radish for a refreshing crunch.
🌸Order with extra vegetables for a healthier meal.
🌸Perfect for a quick lunch or casual dinner.

5. Savory Halal Bibimbap (Mixed Rice Bowl) 🍚

I enjoyed a vibrant bowl of halal bibimbap at a halal-certified restaurant in Seoul. The colorful mix of steamed rice, fresh vegetables, and halal beef topped with a fried egg created a satisfying harmony of textures. The gochujang sauce added a mild spicy kick without overwhelming the flavors. Stirring it all together was a fun and tasty experience that warmed me up after a day of exploring.

📖 About Bibimbap
Bibimbap means “mixed rice” and is a signature Korean dish known for its balance of nutrients and flavors. The halal version uses halal meats and ensures no pork or non-halal sauces are included.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit
Perfect for healthy eaters, families, and first-timers trying Korean food.

💡 Pro Tips
🌸Ask for extra gochujang if you like it spicy.
🌸Mix thoroughly for the best flavor blend.
🌸Great for lunch or dinner.

Halal Street Food and Hawker Favorite in Korea

1. Spicy Halal Tteokbokki at Itaewon Street Food Stalls 🌶️

Itaewon’s evening market was full of energy—the sizzle of frying, chatter from food stalls, and the spicy aroma of tteokbokki filled the air. At a halal-certified stall, I watched the vendor toss chewy rice cakes into a thick, bright red chili sauce with fish cakes and boiled eggs. The first bite was perfectly spicy and slightly sweet, with a satisfying chewiness that kept me coming back for more. The friendly vendor explained how their recipe avoids any non-halal ingredients, making it a favorite among Muslim visitors. The colorful lights and busy crowds added to the authentic street food vibe of Seoul.

📖 About Tteokbokki
Tteokbokki is a popular Korean street food made of rice cakes cooked in a spicy, sweet sauce. Halal versions are specially prepared without pork or non-halal products, so everyone can enjoy this classic snack.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit
Good for solo travelers and anyone who likes spicy street food.

2. Kimchi Mandu (Dumplings) at EID Restaurant 🥟

I stopped by EID Halal Korean Food in Itaewon after visiting the Seoul Central Mosque. The place is simple and clean, with a welcoming vibe. I ordered the kimchi mandu, not too sure what to expect — but the dumplings came out hot and golden-brown, pan-fried just right. The filling had a good balance of halal beef and mild, house-made kimchi. It wasn’t overly spicy, just enough kick to keep it interesting. Soft inside with a slightly crispy shell, they were filling without being too heavy.

📖 About EID Kimchi Mandu
EID is one of the most trusted halal-certified Korean restaurants in Seoul, run by a Korean-Muslim family. Their mandu is a local favorite and a safe choice for first-time visitors who want something familiar with a Korean twist.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit
Perfect for Muslim travelers, families, and anyone who prefers mild flavors or wants a simple halal Korean meal.

3. Halal Eomuk (Fish Cake Skewers) at Itaewon Street Cart 🍢

Walking through the lower stretch of Itaewon’s main road in the late afternoon, I spotted a modest cart surrounded by locals and tourists. The steam rising from the hot broth caught my attention, and I grabbed a skewer of halal-certified eomuk. The broth was light but rich in umami—perfect for a chilly day. The fish cake itself was soft, slightly chewy, and satisfying without being too salty. It’s street food at its simplest, but incredibly comforting.

📖 About Itaewon Halal Eomuk Cart
This small vendor has gained attention for offering fish cakes made with halal-certified ingredients—a rarity in Korea. It’s especially popular with Muslim travelers due to its proximity to Seoul Central Mosque and the vendor’s awareness of dietary needs.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit
Ideal for solo travelers, families with kids, and quick snackers. Especially good for those new to Korean flavors but cautious about spice or ingredients.

4. Sweet Hotteok (Korean Pancakes) from Halal Street Stall in Itaewon 🍞

As I made my way down the busy street near the mosque in Itaewon, I stumbled across a modest cart with a line of people. The smell of caramelized brown sugar and cinnamon pulled me in. The vendor flipped dough rounds on a griddle, pressing them until golden and crispy. I took a bite—crispy on the outside, gooey with brown sugar syrup on the inside. Warm, sweet, and just the right kind of indulgent after a long day.

📖 About Halal Hotteok in Itaewon
Hotteok is a beloved Korean winter snack, and this particular stall is known for using halal-safe ingredients. It’s especially popular with Muslim travelers visiting the area around Seoul Central Mosque.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit
Great for all ages—families, solo travelers, and anyone with a sweet tooth.

Halal Signature Restaurant and Food Institution in Korea

1. Charcoal Lamb & Quiet Comfort at Yang Good BBQ 🍽️

I went to Yang Good BBQ in Gangnam because it’s one of the few halal-certified Korean BBQ spots in Seoul. The place felt comfortable right away—simple wooden tables, grill smoke in the air, and friendly staff who helped explain the menu. I ordered the charcoal-grilled lamb, which came marinated and ready to cook at the table. The smell was amazing, and the meat cooked fast over the hot coals. It was juicy, tender, and really satisfying. The dipping sauces and rice on the side made it a solid, filling meal without feeling heavy.

📖 About Yang Good BBQ
Yang Good is well-known in Seoul for offering halal-certified lamb dishes and classic Korean BBQ. It's popular with Muslim travelers and anyone looking for a clean, welcoming place with reliable food.

📍 Location: 15 Nonhyeon-ro 95-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul (near Hakdong Station)
🍴 Don’t miss: Charcoal-Grilled Lamb
🕒 Reservation recommended? Yes, especially for dinner
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit: Great for halal-seeking travelers, small groups, and families.

2. Halal Korean Fusion at The Halal Guys Seoul 🍔

The Halal Guys in Myeongdong was my quick, no-hassle option after a long day of sightseeing. The place has a casual, fast-food vibe with bright lights and a simple counter-order setup. I ordered the chicken over rice platter with their famous white sauce. It was spicy, creamy, and packed with flavor—the kind of meal that hits the spot fast. It’s not traditional Korean food, but it’s good halal comfort food with a local twist.

📖 About The Halal Guys Seoul
Originally from New York, The Halal Guys brought their popular halal street food to Seoul with a Korean-fusion edge. It’s popular with locals and tourists looking for fast halal options.

📍 Location: 123 Toegye-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul (Myeongdong area)
🍴 Don’t miss: Chicken Over Rice with Spicy Sauce
🕒 Reservation recommended? Not needed, it’s a fast-casual spot
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit: Great for students, solo travelers, and those needing a fast halal meal.

3. Local Halal Flavors at Shabana Indian Restaurant, Busan 🍛

clean setup and a clear halal certification sign at the door. The aroma of spices hit me the moment I walked in. I ordered their butter chicken with garlic naan, and it was rich, creamy, and surprisingly mild — perfect after a day in the sun. They also offer Korean-Indian fusion dishes, which I found interesting.

📖 About Shabana
Shabana is one of the go-to halal spots in Busan, popular with tourists, expats, and even locals. It’s known for reliable service and a full menu of Indian and some halal Korean dishes.

📍 Location: 1390-5 Jung-dong, Haeundae-gu, Busan
🍴 Don’t miss: Butter Chicken, Chicken Biryani
🕒 Reservation recommended? Not necessary—walk-ins are welcome
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit: Perfect for beachgoers, families, and first-time visitors to Busan.

4. Island Halal Dining at Bagdad Halal Restaurant, Jeju 🥘

Located in Jeju City, Bagdad is easy to spot with its bright signboard and cozy interior. I went for lunch and ordered the chicken curry with saffron rice. The portion was generous, and the spices were well-balanced—not too strong, but flavorful. The staff were friendly and confirmed everything was halal. It was a nice break from all the seafood-heavy meals on the island.

📖 About Bagdad Halal
Bagdad is one of the few officially halal-friendly restaurants in Jeju. It serves Indian cuisine with some vegetarian and Korean side options, making it a safe and filling stop for Muslim travelers.

📍 Location: 34 Gwandeok-ro 15-gil, Jeju-si, Jeju-do
🍴 Don’t miss: Chicken Curry, Tandoori Chicken Set
🕒 Reservation recommended? No, but lunch hours can be busy
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit: Good for halal eaters, families with kids, or anyone staying in Jeju City.

Halal Café, Bakery or Dessert Spot in Korea

1. Sweet Pause at Café Mamas, Seoul Station Branch 🍰

I stopped by Café Mamas near Seoul Station on a chilly afternoon, looking for something warm and relaxing. The place had a clean, modern interior with lots of natural light and soft indie music playing. It wasn’t overly crowded—mostly travelers with suitcases and local office workers. I ordered the Ricotta Cheese Salad and a Honey Grapefruit Tea, which hit the spot. The salad was fresh and creamy, and the tea had just the right balance of sweet and citrusy warmth.

📖 About Café Mamas
Café Mamas is a popular local chain known for wholesome sandwiches, salads, and specialty drinks. While not halal-certified, they offer several vegetarian and seafood options that work for halal-conscious diners.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit
Best for casual brunch lovers, Muslim-friendly diners, and solo travelers on a break.

2. Turkish Delight at Kervan Bakery, Seoul 🍰

The moment I stepped into Kervan Bakery, it felt like being transported to Istanbul with a Korean twist. The air was filled with the warm scent of butter and pistachio, and Turkish pop music played gently in the background. Elegant gold accents, mosaic lamps, and the display of colorful pastries immediately caught my eye. I ordered the baklava cheesecake, and it was unforgettable—crispy phyllo layers hugging creamy, rose-scented cheesecake, finished with a drizzle of honeyed pistachio. Each bite was rich, nutty, and perfectly sweet.

📖 About Kervan Bakery
Part of the well-known Kervan Group, this bakery is fully halal-certified and specializes in authentic Turkish desserts like baklava, künefe, and Turkish delight. It's a fusion of Middle Eastern charm and modern Seoul café culture, perfect for those seeking something different from the usual Korean sweets.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit
Best for Muslim travelers, dessert lovers craving non-Korean sweets, and halal-conscious foodies.

3. Cozy Halal Treats at Sulbing Itaewon 🍮

Walking into Sulbing’s Itaewon branch, I immediately felt the warmth of its welcoming vibe. Soft acoustic tunes played while natural wood and soft pastel décor gave the space a fresh, airy feel. The crowd was a mix of local students and halal-conscious visitors, all quietly enjoying their desserts. I ordered their famous Injeolmi Bingsu—shaved ice topped with chewy rice cakes, roasted soybean powder, and a drizzle of honey. The dessert was refreshing yet rich, with the nutty soy powder perfectly balancing the cool sweetness.

📖 About Sulbing Itaewon
Sulbing is a well-known Korean dessert chain that offers halal-certified options in their Itaewon branch. They specialize in fusion-style traditional Korean shaved ice desserts made suitable for halal diners without compromising on authentic flavors.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit
Perfect for halal travelers, dessert lovers, and casual café hangouts.

Halal Local Snack and Food Souvenir

1. A Crunchy Classic: Korean Yakgwa (Honey Cookies) 🍯

I came across these beautifully packaged Yakgwa at a small shop near Insadong, and they instantly felt like the perfect take-home treat. Each cookie is golden, flower-shaped, and soaked in honey-ginger syrup, giving it a chewy, sweet bite with a hint of spice. I loved that they came in individually wrapped pieces—easy to share or enjoy slowly with tea after getting home.

📖 About Yakgwa
Yakgwa is a traditional Korean cookie made from wheat flour, sesame oil, and honey. Historically served during special occasions, it’s still popular today as a nostalgic treat that bridges generations. And yes—many versions use halal ingredients, especially those made without alcohol or animal gelatin.

🛒 Where to buy: Ssamziegil Mall (Insadong), Dongdaemun Traditional Market, or major Korean supermarkets like E-Mart
🎁 Travel-friendly? Yes—light, sealed, and long shelf life
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit: Great for travelers who want a compact, halal-friendly gift with cultural charm.

2. Crispy & Light: Halal Roasted Seaweed Snacks 🍘

I picked up these thin, crispy seaweed sheets at a halal-friendly grocery near Myeongdong. The salty, umami flavor made them addictive — perfect for snacking or topping on rice at home. The light texture and savory taste reminded me why seaweed is a Korean staple.

📖 About Roasted Seaweed Snacks
Known as gim, roasted seaweed is a popular Korean snack and side dish, often eaten plain or with rice. Many halal-certified brands now offer versions free from animal-derived seasonings.

🛒 Where to buy: Olive Young, Lotte Mart, and halal shops in Seoul
🎁 Travel-friendly? Yes — light, compact, and resealable packaging
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit: Perfect for health-conscious halal travelers looking for a tasty, portable snack.

3. Nutty Delight: Korean Honey Butter Almonds 🥜

I picked up these halal Korean honey butter almonds at a convenience store in Busan. The almonds are perfectly roasted with a sweet honey butter coating that’s both rich and addictive. Crunchy and lightly sweet, they made a great snack while exploring the city or a tasty souvenir to bring home.

📖 About Korean Honey Butter Almonds
Honey butter flavor is a huge hit in Korea, famous for its sweet and savory blend. These almonds are a halal-friendly take on that popular flavor, letting Muslim travelers enjoy a classic Korean snack without worry.

🛒 Where to buy: Convenience stores nationwide, major supermarkets
🎁 Travel-friendly? Yes — resealable bags keep them fresh and easy to pack
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit: Perfect for snack lovers and those wanting a portable, halal-certified Korean treat.

Halal Food Street and Dining Zone In Korea

1. Flavors Alive at Itaewon Halal Food Street 🛣️

Arriving at Itaewon’s Halal Food Street during dinner rush, I was immediately greeted by the buzz of lively chatter, sizzling grills, and the inviting aroma of spices and grilled meats. The street is vibrant and diverse, with restaurants and food stalls side by side, serving everything from Korean BBQ to Middle Eastern kebabs. I settled at a small stall and tried the halal dak-galbi — tender, spicy chicken stir-fried with veggies and chewy rice cakes. The rich flavors and perfectly balanced heat made it a memorable first bite.

📖 About Itaewon Halal Food Street
Located in Seoul’s multicultural Itaewon district, this street is known for its variety of halal-certified eateries catering especially to Muslim travelers. It’s a popular hub where locals and tourists alike enjoy diverse halal options, from Korean dishes to international cuisine.

📅 Best time to visit: 6–9 PM for the dinner crowd

🍽️ What to try: Halal Dak-galbi – Spicy stir-fried chicken with rice cakes, Lamb Kebabs – Juicy and well-seasoned Middle Eastern style, Halal Korean BBQ – Grilled meats with classic sides

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit:
Perfect for Muslim travelers, street food lovers, and anyone curious about diverse halal options in Korea.

💡 Pro Tips:
🌸Most stalls accept cash only, so bring some won.
🌸Busy stalls usually have the best food—don’t be shy to join a queue.
🌸Ask for milder spice levels if you prefer less heat.

2. 🍜 Global Flavors & Halal Heat in Ansan’s Multicultural Food Street

I arrived at Ansan Station just after sunset, and within minutes, I was surrounded by the sights and smells of one of Korea’s most diverse food scenes. The streets of Wongok-dong were packed with shops and restaurants offering food from all over Asia—Indonesian, Pakistani, Nepali, Turkish, and more. I followed the smell of grilled meat and found a spot called Rindu Alam. I ordered the nasi goreng—fried rice with spiced chicken and a fried egg on top. It was simple, filling, and packed with flavor. The place was busy but welcoming, and I didn’t feel out of place among a mix of locals and foreign workers grabbing dinner after a long day.

📖 About Ansan Multicultural Food Street
Located in Wongok-dong, Danwon-gu, Gyeonggi-do, this area is often called “Little Asia” due to its high population of foreign residents. It’s known for authentic, budget-friendly halal meals from Southeast Asia, South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East. A go-to spot for Muslim travelers and anyone looking for a break from typical Korean food.

📅 Best time to visit: 6–9 PM for dinner rush

🍽️ What to try: Nasi goreng at Rindu Alam, chicken biryani at Asiana, doner kebab at SARAY Doner Kebab

💡 Pro Tips
🌸Most menus have photos, but English and Bahasa are common too.
🌸Try visiting on weekends—more pop-up stalls appear.
🌸Bring cash—some small places don’t take cards.

3. Comfort Food at Dongdaemun Muslim Food Alley 🍛

(Source: triphobo.com)

I arrived at Dongdaemun just as the evening lights flickered on, and the streets buzzed with energy. The aroma of grilled fish and spices wafted through the air, leading me to a cozy alley lined with eateries. I settled into a modest restaurant where the staff greeted me warmly. Opting for the grilled cutlassfish, I was delighted by its tender flesh and flavorful seasoning. The meal was simple yet satisfying, a perfect end to a day of exploring.

📖 About Dongdaemun Muslim Food Alley
Situated near Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station, this alley is a haven for halal food enthusiasts. The area boasts a variety of eateries offering dishes from Central Asia and the Middle East, catering to the diverse Muslim community in Seoul. It's a go-to spot for authentic, halal-certified meals in the heart of the city.

📅 Best time to visit: 6–9 PM for dinner rush

🍽️ What to try: Grilled cutlassfish, spicy squid stew, and soft tofu stew

💡 Pro Tips
🌸Some eateries may have limited English menus; pointing at dishes works well.
🌸Cash is preferred; not all places accept cards.
🌸Weekends can be busy; consider visiting on weekdays for a quieter experience.

Embark on a Flavor-Packed Halal Food Adventure in South Korea

After exploring South Korea’s growing halal food scene, I can honestly say—it’s a hidden gem for Muslim foodies. Whether you're tasting Indonesian nasi goreng in Ansan, enjoying grilled lamb skewers near Dongdaemun, or trying halal Korean BBQ in Itaewon, every meal is a fusion of culture, comfort, and bold flavor.

Traveling from Jakarta? South Korea is just a flight away, and once you land, the food adventure begins. Book your flights from Jakarta to Seoul and find a hotel near vibrant neighborhoods like Itaewon or Myeongdong for easy access to halal-friendly eats. From Seoul’s bustling halal food alleys to Busan’s global flavors near Gukje Market, you’ll never run out of dishes to try—or stories to bring back.

Still figuring out what to do in South Korea? Trip.com has everything you need—from the best halal restaurants to tours tailored for Muslim travelers.

✈️ So, ready to explore halal eats across Korea? Pack gimbap without meat—a simple but satisfying option that’s perfect for on-the-go snacking.