Five Top Spots for South Korean Food and Culture Around Australia

In the last few years, South Korean culture has gone global – from the cult-status of K-pop and K-beauty to the growing popularity of Korean street foods like sugar-dusted corn dogs and fluffy egg drop sandwiches. But it’s South Korean film and television that’s really pushing the country’s cultural influence into the spotlight – particularly thanks to Squid Game, which became a global phenomenon no one saw coming.

The show spurred audiences to connect more deeply with Korean culture, and its impact is still being felt. Since Squid Game aired, Australians’ consumption of Korean content on Netflix has jumped by nearly 40 per cent. And it’s not just watching; viewers are eager to introduce aspects of the show into their real lives – though thankfully not the deadly competition. White Vans like the ones worn by Squid Game contestants reportedly saw a 7800 per cent spike in sales after it aired; dalgona – the caramelised candy featured in the series – swiftly went viral and Sydney’s Squid Game Live Experience sold out for 12 consecutive weeks after opening late last year.

Needless to say, the infatuation with South Korean culture in the global mainstream is strong. If you’re looking to dive deeper while waiting for Squid Game season three, food is the perfect place to start. Whether it’s bingsu, dalgona or kimbap, these spots will transport you right to the heart of the show.

Melbourne: Healey’s Lane

Melbourne’s Koreatown has officially found its home in Healey’s Lane, a buzzing laneway in the CBD’s west end. With late-night pochas (Korean pubs), barbeque joints, and homestyle eateries, it’s a neon-lit escape into Korea’s vibrant street food culture. Don’t miss Seven Star Pocha, where you can try tteokbokki, the spicy rice cakes that Seong Gi-hun shares with his daughter in the first episode of Squid Game. Or stop by The Seoul Toast Bong for sandwiches piled high with beef, egg, Korean fried chicken or even japchae (sweet potato noodles) starting from around $10.

Sydney: Strathfield

Strathfield is one of Sydney’s largest Korean commercial precincts – home to a treasure trove of Korean eateries, grocery stores, beauty shops and karaoke joints. One standout here is Hamji Park, a Chinese-Korean eatery where you can enjoy heaping bowls of jajangmyeon (black bean noodles) and sweet and sour fried chicken. Another favourite is Lab, which specialises in kkwabaegi (twisted donuts), sogeum-ppang (salt bread) and other Korean baked goods. When you’re done, there are several Korean fashion outlets and skincare stores to explore.

Adelaide: Seoul Sweetie

Seoul Sweetie brings a little slice of Seoul’s nightlife to Adelaide. Known for its late-night offerings, this spot serves Korean drinks and desserts until late into the evening. Highlights include taro Basque burnt cheesecake and bingsu (Korean shaved ice) flavoured with honeydew, matcha or ssuk (mugwort). But it’s the dalgona coffee – whipped coffee crowned with crispy caramel crumble – that’s the real star here.

Brisbane: Snug

Located in a charming green building in Coorparoo, Snug is a cafe and wine bar championing Korean flavours. The menu changes regularly, so it’s worth coming back to try new dishes. During the day, you might find egg drop sandwiches and misugaru, a traditional beverage made from 10 Korean grains – though straying from tradition, it’s served here with coffee and cream. At night, look out for yukhoe (Korean-style beef tartare) and mandu dumplings filled with sweet potato and corn. Pair your meal with a cold Korean lager or an Australian wine from the bar’s selection.

Perth: Kimbap Heaven

If you’re in Perth, don’t miss Kimbap Heaven, a local favourite known for its namesake dish. Rice, vegetables and your choice of protein are wrapped in seaweed, making for a portable, satisfying meal. The kimbap here comes in a range of flavours, from classic beef or tuna to more unique pairings like pork and cheese. If you’re after something more, the restaurant also serves heartier fare like tteokbokki and Korean fried chicken. For something sweet, finish with hotteok – a handheld pancake filled with a mix of brown sugar and nuts.

Hobart: Dagolla Mart

For those in Hobart looking to stock up on Korean snacks and products, Dagolla Mart is a must-visit. Whether you’re after pantry staples or beauty essentials, this local gem has you covered. Pick up soboro-ppang – the streusel-topped bread rolls featured in Squid Game – or grab a bottle of soju or makgeolli (Korean rice wine) for a themed at-home viewing party. It’s your one-stop shop to bring the taste of Korea to your kitchen.

This article is produced by Broadsheet in partnership with Netflix.