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$1 Happiness: Why Everyone in Korea Falls for This "Fish" in Winter

 As the temperature drops in Korea, a very specific, sweet aroma starts to fill the streets. If you follow your nose, you’ll likely find a small street stall surrounded by people waiting in the cold. They are waiting for   Bungeoppang    Korea’s most beloved winter street snack. First things first: No, there is no actual fish in it! " Bungeo " means Crucian Carp , and " Ppang " means bread . It’s a fish-shaped waffle-like bread traditionally filled with sweet red bean paste.  For me, Bungeoppang is a "Healing Food" that tastes like my childhood.  I still remember walking home from my after-school academies on cold winter nights. I was always so hungry, but as a student, I didn't have much money.  Back then,  Bungeoppang  was unbelievably cheap—I think you could get almost 10 fish for just $1! I used to buy them one by one with my pocket money to warm my cold hands and stomach on the way home.  Now, the prices have risen, but the warmt...
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Free Meals 3 Times a Day? My Survival as a Pescetarian in a Korean Office


 Curious about what office life in Korea is really like? At my company, we are provided with three meals a day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 


I usually have a quick bite or a Bulletproof coffee at home for breakfast, but I rely on the company cafeteria for lunch and dinner. But here’s the challenge—Koreans absolutely love meat! The main dish is almost always something like Jeyuk-bokkeum (spicy pork), Bulgogi, Samgyeopsal, or Tonkatsu. Even the soups usually have beef in them.


So, what do I eat as a Pescetarian? 




Remember the "Banchan" culture I mentioned? Even if I skip the main meat dish, there are always several side dishes like Kimchi, seasoned vegetables (Namul), and seaweed. I fill my tray with those and rice. If I’m worried about protein, I sometimes bring my own canned tuna or dried seaweed (Gim)—though most days, I’m too lazy and just enjoy the veggies! 



My tray might look a bit "modest" compared to others who pile on the meat, but it’s healthy, delicious, and a real look into how I navigate daily life here. 


Does your workplace provide meals? Or do you have to pack your own lunch every day? Let’s chat in the comments!

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