South Korea Emerges as a Global Culinary Powerhouse

As culinary tourism continues to soar worldwide, South Korea has secured its place as one of the globe’s premier food destinations. The 2025 MICHELIN Guide Seoul & Busan highlights 40 MICHELIN-starred restaurants, cementing Korea’s reputation as a hub where tradition meets innovation.

The global culinary tourism market, valued at $1.17 billion in 2025, is projected to grow to $3.76 billion by 2032, and South Korea is at the forefront of this expansion. For many visitors, food is more than a meal — it’s a cultural journey. A recent survey revealed that 64% of international travelers cite Korea’s culinary offerings as their primary reason for visiting.

South Korea’s dining scene draws from deep-rooted traditions while embracing modern creativity. The recent recognition of jang-making practices (fermented soybean-based sauces) on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list, alongside the famed kimjang (kimchi-making), underscores the enduring significance of K-Food.

Among the standout honorees in the 2025 guide are:

• LÉGUME (1 Star) – Seoul’s first MICHELIN-starred vegan restaurant and the only one of its kind in Asia, part of just ten vegan MICHELIN venues worldwide. Chef Sung Si-woo’s bold vision during the pandemic has become a symbol of sustainable, plant-based dining.

• MINGLES (3 Stars) – Led by Chef Kang Min-goo, Mingles made history as Korea’s first Three MICHELIN Star restaurant, celebrated for its refined reinterpretations of traditional flavors.

• ESCONDIDO (1 Star) – The first Mexican restaurant in Asia to receive a MICHELIN Star, reflecting South Korea’s growing embrace of diverse global cuisines.

In total, the 2025 MICHELIN Guide features 186 restaurants in Seoul and 48 in Busan, including 29 new entries, showcasing the vibrant growth of Korea’s gastronomic landscape.

“This year’s selection highlights the great diversity of restaurants with new styles of cuisine and unique offerings, reflecting the steady development of the Korean dining scene,” said Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the MICHELIN Guide. “As Seoul has established itself as a culinary destination, we are confident that Busan will also continue to rise as a global food hub.”

With global recognition, UNESCO-listed traditions, and groundbreaking dining concepts, South Korea is redefining its place in the world as a culinary powerhouse.