A person pouring traditional Korean makgeolli into a bowl at a restaurant, with a spread of Korean side dishes on the table

The Best Post-Hike Snacks and Drinks After Mudeungsan

The Perfect Way to End Your Mudeungsan Hike

After a long and rewarding hike at Mudeungsan, nothing feels better than refueling with some delicious local food. Whether you’re craving something warm and hearty or looking for a traditional Korean experience, the local dishes available at the base of the mountain will not disappoint. While many hikers enjoy classic snacks like ramen or dumplings, locals often opt for more traditional post-hike treats like pajeon (Korean pancake), bindaetteok (mung bean pancake), and makgeolli (traditional rice wine).

What to Eat After Hiking Mudeungsan

1. Bindaetteok (Mung Bean Pancake) & Sujebi (Hand-Pulled Dough Soup)

After my recent winter hike at Mudeungsan, I found myself craving something warm and filling. I decided to go with a bindaetteok and sujebi combination, and it turned out to be the perfect post-hike meal. The crispy yet hearty texture of bindaetteok, paired with the comforting, chewy bites of sujebi in a rich broth, provided just the right balance of flavors and warmth to help me recover from the cold trek.

2. Pajeon & Makgeolli – The Local Favorite

One of the most popular post-hike combinations in Korea is pajeon (green onion pancake) and makgeolli (traditional Korean rice wine). This dish is commonly enjoyed by hikers across Korea, as the savory, crispy texture of pajeon complements the light, slightly sweet taste of makgeolli perfectly. If you’re hiking Mudeungsan, trying the local Mudeungsan Makgeolli is a must—it’s a regional specialty that pairs beautifully with any of the mountain delicacies.

Why Do Koreans Love Makgeolli After Hiking?

In Korea, makgeolli is often considered the best drink after a hike. This lightly carbonated, slightly sweet, and tangy rice wine is known to be refreshing and helps replenish energy. The tradition of pairing makgeolli with savory pancakes dates back decades, and many hikers swear by this combination as the ultimate way to end a long day of trekking.

A person pouring traditional Korean makgeolli into a bowl at a restaurant, with a spread of Korean side dishes on the table

Where to Find These Post-Hike Treats

Near the base of Mudeungsan, you’ll find many small eateries and traditional markets offering freshly made bindaetteok, pajeon, sujebi, and makgeolli. Look for local restaurants with signs advertising “산채 음식 (mountain vegetable dishes)” or “전통 막걸리 (traditional makgeolli),” and you’re guaranteed to find a warm and satisfying meal.

Final Thoughts

After conquering Mudeungsan, reward yourself with authentic local dishes that highlight the flavors of the region. Whether you go for the classic pajeon and makgeolli combo or opt for a hearty bindaetteok and sujebi, these post-hike treats will make your adventure even more memorable.

The Oister
The Oister
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