Seafood with Seoul

Are you brave enough to try this traditional dish? Read on to find out.

If you’re a foodie, a risk-taker, or someone with a flair for all things adventurous, then there’s a Korean dish you must try in Seoul: Sannakji. Also known as wriggling octopus, this dish has become an internet sensation thanks to its unique preparation and consumption. Why has it caused such a stir? What does it taste like and where can you find it? Let's find out!

The What: 

Fair warning, this dish is not for the faint of heart—or stomach for that matter. In short, Sannakji is a live baby octopus that is cut into small pieces and served immediately afterward. Some brave seouls (sorry) skip this step and simply eat the octopus whole by wrapping it around chopsticks.

Whether you eat it before or after it has been chopped, the octopus will still be wriggling. This makes the dish a bit of a choking hazard, especially when eaten alive, as you’ll be competing with hundreds of suction cups on the way down. You’ve been warned! Make sure to chew. A lot.

The Why: 

It’s believed that eating live octopus provides strength and stamina. This extra motivation seems necessary, as there isn’t much in the way of flavor. You can expect the typical chewy texture of squid, with a briny, ocean taste. The legs are sometimes served with sesame oil and seeds, but this will vary depending on where you go. 

The Where: 

Sannakji is served in seafood restaurants throughout Seoul and wider Korea, but the dish is also a popular street food option. For those looking to eat on the go, head to general food halls or seafood markets for a fresh catch. You can find Sannakji in restaurants outside of Korea, but the quality may vary so make sure to do your research. For those that are brave enough, we wish you all the strength and stamina that Sannakji may bring!