How to Order Food Delivery in Korea

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Introduction: Why Food Delivery in Korea Is Famous

When foreigners first move to Korea, they’re often blown away by how good the food delivery system is. Imagine ordering fried chicken, Korean BBQ, bubble tea, or even snacks from the nearest convenience store—and having it show up at your door in under 30 minutes. Delivery in Korea isn’t just convenient—it’s part of the lifestyle.

If you’re new, it might feel intimidating with all the Korean menus, payment issues, and app setup steps. But don’t worry—this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to master food delivery in Korea.

1. Popular Delivery Apps in Korea

Here are the three major players you’ll use most often:

Other niche apps exist (Shuttle Delivery for foreigners, KakaoTalk order system, etc.), but the “big three” will cover 95% of your needs.

2. Setting Up the App

Here’s where most foreigners hit their first roadblock—but it’s easier than it looks.

  1. Download the app from the Play Store or App Store.
  2. Register with a Korean phone number. Apps usually send a confirmation SMS.
  3. Enter your Korean address.
    • Tip: Copy-paste your address from Naver Maps to avoid typos.
    • Most apps require both Korean (Hangul) and English addresses, so keep both versions handy.
  4. Verify payment method. See below for details.

If you don’t speak Korean, use Papago Translate app—it works directly on screenshots and menus.

3. Payment Options

  • Korean Credit/Debit Cards – Works flawlessly.
  • Foreign Credit Cards – May work on Baemin, but not always.
  • Naver Pay / Kakao Pay – Widely accepted and convenient. Requires a local bank account.
  • Cash on Delivery – Rare, but still an option in some areas. Usually marked as “현금 결제.”

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re new and don’t have a bank account yet, Coupang Eats is the most foreigner-friendly app for payment with international cards.

4. What You Can Order

This is where Korea shines: practically everything can be delivered.

  • Korean classics: Fried chicken, tteokbokki, and Korean BBQ sets.
  • Japanese & Chinese: Sushi, ramen, jjajangmyeon, tangsuyuk.
  • Western: Burgers, pizza, pasta.
  • Beverages & Desserts: Bubble tea, coffee, ice cream.
  • Convenience Store Items: Snacks, drinks, ramen, and even toiletries.

Some apps even allow midnight orders—yes, you can get hot soup at 2 AM.

5. Delivery Times

  • Average wait: 20–40 minutes.
  • Rainy days: Expect slower service.
  • Busy hours (lunch/dinner): Popular restaurants may have 1-hour waits.

Korea’s delivery system is built on speed, but also safety—many drivers use motorcycles designed for city traffic.

6. Tipping in Delivery Culture

The golden rule: No tips needed.
Delivery fees are usually between ₩2,000–₩5,000 (about $1.50–$4) and are clearly shown in the app. Unlike in the U.S., drivers don’t expect additional cash.

7. Common Issues & How to Solve Them

  1. Language Barriers
    • Use Papago for real-time translation.
    • Some apps (like Baemin) offer limited English menus.
  2. Address Confusion
    • Always enter the building name and unit number if living in an apartment.
    • Add delivery notes like “Gate code: 1234” in Korean if possible.
  3. Limited Options in Smaller Cities
    • Big cities like Seoul, Busan, and Daegu have endless options.
    • Rural areas may have only a few restaurants available.
  4. Payment Failures
    • Try switching to another app.
    • Or use prepaid gift cards from convenience stores if you’re stuck.

8. Pro Tips for Newcomers

  • Use Coupons: Baemin and Yogiyo frequently run ₩3,000–₩5,000 discounts.
  • Group Orders: Baemin allows multiple people to add to one cart—perfect for dorms or officemates.
  • Track Your Rider: Apps show real-time maps of your food on the way.
  • Don’t Forget Seobiseu (서비스): Many restaurants add free side dishes or drinks—Korea’s way of saying thanks.

Final Thoughts

Food delivery in Korea isn’t just convenient—it’s a cultural experience. From the speed of Baemin riders zipping through traffic to the surprise side dishes tucked into your order, the system reflects the country’s love of efficiency, food, and hospitality.

Whether you’re craving late-night fried chicken, need a quick coffee, or want to explore local Korean dishes without leaving home, Korea’s delivery apps make it all possible with just a few taps.

So go ahead—download Baemin, Yogiyo, or Coupang Eats today, and start eating like a local.

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