In sunshine like this, I refuse to be inside for any longer than I absolutely have to. This includes for meals. In fact, one of my favorite things to do in this weather is picnic. And with all the great green spaces the city has to offer (like Naksan Park, the Han River and the Dream Forest), a picnic can be had just about anywhere.
And I’m not the only one who feels this way. In fact, Koreans love outdoor dining. Whether it be on a mountain hike or simply outside a convenience store on plastic furniture, they know how to do it right. I’ve taken a few cues from my Korean friends to get the picnic techniques down perfectly. So, I decided, why not share all the valuable know-how I’ve learned over the years with you guys, so that you too can have a great Korean-style picnic.
So, without further ado, here are six things you absolutely need for your Korean picnic:
6. Picnic Mat
Why get grass stains on your favorite duds when you can pick up a picnic mat at Daiso for a few bucks? These easily toteable mats pretty much last forever and really come in handy during picnic season, whether at the park or a rooftop party.
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5. Selfie Stick
Because let’s face it. No Korean outing is complete without one. Enough said.
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4. Sun Protection
Everyone knows that Koreans have gorgeous skin and this is no doubt thanks to their skin care systems, which they follow religiously. Be sure to follow their lead and slather on the sunscreen, don a giant sun hat and if you’re a really serious picnicker, order one of these sun tents, easy to pack and perfect for the beach or park.
3. Kimbap
The Korean equivalent of America’s sandwich, kimbap makes for a great picnic snack. It’s easy to eat. It’s healthy. It’s delicious. It’s cheap. And thanks to the recent trend of gourmet kimbap, there’s a flavor to suit everyone’s taste. My go-to is Robot Kimbap, which sells varieties like Wasabi Tuna and Cream Cheese. Pick up a few rolls or make your own and your picnic will be perfect.
2. Fried Chicken
A less healthy but even tastier Korean picnic staple is fried chicken. But even better than the dish itself is the picnic culture that surrounds it. In many of the green spaces around Seoul, like the Han River and the Dream Forest, nearby chicken restaurants will actually deliver your order right to your picnic spot. For reals. Just keep an eye out for their fliers, make a phone call, let them know where you are. In a matter of minutes, they’ll bicycle it over in record speed. Did I mention they also deliver beer?
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1. Makgeolli
Chilled makgeolli and picnics go together like peanut butter and jelly. Just ask any Korean hiker, farmer or me. More refreshing and tangier than beer, it’s a great way to get a bit of a buzz on your weekend outing. Available at any convenience store, it’s easy to get your hands on and not so strong that you’ll get out of control. In small doses, that is.
So there you have it. Your packing checklist for a great Korean picnic. Plan out your picnic spot using this list of the top 10 outdoor spaces in Seoul or Time Out Seoul’s top picnic spots and enjoy!
Words and photos by Mimsie Ladner of Seoul Searching unless otherwise noted. Content may not be reproduced unless authorized.
