Vegan Korean Food Cooking Class: Gimbap, Sundubu Jjigae, and more

A Taste of Korea Without the Meat: Vegan Korean Food Cooking Class Review

If you’re craving an authentic Korean culinary experience that caters to a plant-based diet, this Vegan Korean Food Cooking Class on World Food Street in Itaewon might be just what you need. While I haven’t personally cooked alongside Soomin, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a warm, engaging, and delicious journey through Korea’s vegan-friendly dishes.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to learn to prepare beloved Korean dishes like Gimbap and Sundubu Jjigae in a small group setting. Second, the focus on seasonal edible flowers and tofu adds a beautiful visual element and showcases the versatility of plant-based ingredients. Third, the friendly, knowledgeable guide ensures that even beginners can follow along and walk away with new skills—and a full stomach.

The only potential caveat? The tour takes place on the third floor of a building without an elevator, so it might not be suitable for those with mobility issues. But overall, this experience appears perfectly suited for vegans, vegetarians, and curious travelers interested in Korean cuisine who want a hands-on, authentic class without the fuss.

Key Points

Engaging and intimate experience with a maximum of four travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
Delicious, fully vegan Korean dishes that are both satisfying and visually appealing.
Knowledgeable instructor who explains ingredients and traditions clearly.
Ideal for all levels—from beginners to seasoned cooks—thanks to simple, step-by-step instructions.
Great value for the price of $75, considering the quality of food, instruction, and cultural insights.
Convenient location in Itaewon, close to public transportation and easy to access.

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Korean Cooking Class

This workshop offers much more than just cooking; it’s a cultural dive into Korean cuisine that’s perfect whether you’re a dedicated vegan or just looking to explore new flavors. The small group format — capped at four — ensures plenty of individual guidance and an intimate environment where questions are encouraged. From the moment you arrive, Soomin’s warmth and enthusiasm make you feel right at home, ready to tackle dishes that are both familiar and uniquely Korean.

You’ll love how the class smoothly combines learning with tasting. The dishes prepared—like the iconic Sundubu-jjigae (soft tofu stew) and Gimbap (Korean sushi roll)—are made from scratch, giving you confidence to recreate them later back home. Plus, the addition of seasonal edible flowers adds a striking visual element, making the meal feel like a true celebration of fresh ingredients.

Most reviewers mention how approachable and engaging Soomin is, taking time to explain ingredients and cooking techniques in simple terms. This isn’t a high-pressure experience; instead, it’s about exploration and enjoyment. Many mention how they not only learned new recipes but also gained insights into Korean food culture, making it a rich, well-rounded experience.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

The workshop begins in the lively area of Itaewon’s World Food Street, a hub of international cuisine and vibrant energy. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by Soomin, who creates a welcoming atmosphere that makes even the most inexperienced home cook feel at ease.

First, you’ll learn to assemble Gimbap. This iconic Korean dish, often compared to sushi rolls, is made by rolling seasoned rice, vegetables, and sometimes tofu, in seaweed. Reviewers appreciate how Soomin breaks down each step clearly, making the process accessible. The hands-on nature means you’ll be rolling your own, and you might even get a chance to add seasonal edible flowers for a beautiful touch.

Next, you’ll move on to Sundubu Jjigae, a beloved soft tofu stew. You’ll prepare this from scratch, understanding how to season and cook the delicate tofu to achieve that perfect silky texture. Comments from past participants emphasize how satisfying it is to make this comforting dish yourself, especially knowing it’s vegan-friendly.

Then, the focus shifts to pancakes and dough shapes. You’ll craft soy pulp pancakes called Biji-jeon and shape glutinous rice dough into beautiful forms for Hwa-jeon, decorated with edible flowers. These steps highlight the artistry involved in Korean cooking, and reviewers mention how fun and rewarding it is to create visually stunning dishes.

Throughout the class, Soomin shares insights into Korean ingredients and customs, enriching your understanding of the dishes’ cultural significance. This makes the meal more meaningful, transforming it from just a cooking session into a cultural exchange.

Duration-wise, expect around 2 hours and 30 minutes of guided cooking, with time for tasting and chatting. The entire experience is designed for relaxed learning, with enough time to savor each dish and ask questions.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

The tour starts and ends in Itaewon, a neighborhood famous for its diverse food scene and easy access via public transport. The class is hosted on the third floor of a building with no elevator, so plan accordingly if mobility is a concern.

The experience is limited to 4 travelers, which ensures personalized guidance, making it ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups. The mobile ticket system adds convenience, allowing you to check in easily from your phone.

At $75 per person, the class offers good value considering the quality of instruction, ingredients, and the personal touch from Soomin. Past guests have raved about the delicious food and the opportunity to learn kitchen skills they can apply later. Many mention how the class became a highlight of their trip, especially for those wanting vegan, gluten-free (upon request), and Muslim-friendly options.

The experience is scheduled well in advance—about 20 days on average—so booking early is recommended. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Why This Experience Is Worth It

This class stands out as a practical, enjoyable way to explore Korean cuisine without the need for a restaurant setting. You’ll walk away with the skills to make vegan Gimbap, Sundubu Jjigae, and more, plus a deeper appreciation for Korea’s culinary traditions. The focus on seasonal ingredients and beautiful presentation makes each dish feel special and Instagram-worthy.

Most reviews mention how much they appreciated the friendly, knowledgeable guidance of Soomin, who balances instruction with storytelling, making the class both educational and fun. The small-group setup guarantees personalized attention, and many notes how the dishes turned out delicious and satisfying.

This experience is perfect for vegans and vegetarians who want to discover traditional Korean flavors, as well as travelers curious about plant-based cuisine. It’s also great for those who love cooking classes that combine cultural insights with hands-on participation. If you’re looking for a meaningful, tasty, and memorable activity in Seoul, this class ticks all the boxes.

Final Thoughts

For anyone interested in Korean food, this vegan cooking class offers a fantastic opportunity to learn, taste, and create in a friendly environment. The dishes are thoughtfully prepared, visually stunning, and suitable for various dietary needs. The small group size and engaging instructor make it a personalized experience you’ll likely remember long after your trip ends.

It’s a chance to expand your culinary repertoire and get a real taste of Seoul’s vibrant food scene, all while sticking to a plant-based diet. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious beginner, you’ll find value here—plus some new favorite dishes to impress friends back home.

If you’re in Seoul and wish to deepen your connection with Korean culinary traditions in a relaxed, supportive setting, this Vegan Korean Food Cooking Class will not disappoint.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The class is designed with clear, step-by-step instructions that make it accessible for all skill levels, from first-timers to experienced cooks.

How long does the class last?
Expect approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes of hands-on cooking, with time allocated for tasting and discussion.

What dietary options are available?
This class is vegan, but gluten-free options are available on request. It is also muslim-friendly.

Where does the class take place?
In the lively neighborhood of Itaewon, specifically on the third floor of a building in World Food Street.

What should I bring?
Everything needed for cooking is provided. Just bring your enthusiasm and perhaps a container if you want to take leftovers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the class starts, giving you flexibility.

Is there any specific dress code?
No special attire is required, but comfortable clothing suitable for cooking is recommended.

This vegan Korean cooking class offers a flavorful, authentic, and fun glimpse into Seoul’s culinary delights—an experience that’s both educational and delicious. Whether you’re passionate about plant-based eating or simply eager to try Korean dishes, this class will leave you inspired and well-fed.