Top 5 Korean Summer Hangover Foods That Beat the Heat and Cure Your Stomach

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Summer in Korea is brutal — hot, humid, and exhausting. But if you’ve partied too hard the night before or just want to beat the heat while healing your body, Korea’s traditional hangover-curing foods are the answer. Here's a list of the top 5 Korean summer hangover dishes that not only cool you down but also work wonders for your stomach. I’ve tried them all myself — and here’s the full scoop!

1. Kongguksu (Cold Soy Milk Noodles)

This is hands-down my favorite Korean summer hangover cure. Imagine a bowl of cold, creamy soy milk broth with chewy wheat noodles. It’s nutty, smooth, and super refreshing. After a night of drinking, the mild flavor and high protein content really help settle my stomach. I didn’t think I’d enjoy cold noodle soup, but I was totally converted after the first sip.

2. Haejang-guk (Hangover Soup)

Its name literally means “soup to chase a hangover.” While this dish is available all year round, certain summer versions — like ones with bean sprouts and dried Napa cabbage — are light and invigorating. The first time I tried it, I was skeptical of the murky broth, but it turned out to be one of the most soothing experiences. Slightly spicy, rich in minerals — and you’ll break a good sweat!

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3. Miyeok-guk (Seaweed Soup)

Originally eaten for birthdays and after childbirth, this soup has a special place in Korea's health food culture. It’s light, clean, and full of nutrients. After drinking, my body always craves something gentle, and miyeok-guk is like a healing potion. Seaweed is known to help detox your system — and it really works!

4. Mul-naengmyeon (Cold Buckwheat Noodles)

This dish is so cold it comes with crushed ice in the broth. Tangy, a bit sweet, and slightly savory, it’s perfect for cooling down while curing your hangover. The buckwheat noodles are chewy, and the broth is usually made with beef or radish stock. Every time I eat this after a night out, I feel reborn!

5. Juk (Korean Rice Porridge)

When your stomach is too sensitive for anything heavy, juk is the answer. Especially abalone or pumpkin juk — both are light, nutritious, and easy to digest. I remember one summer morning after too much soju, I could barely move, but a warm bowl of juk brought me back to life. Add a bit of kimchi on the side and you’ve got yourself a gentle cure.

Bonus Tip: Korean Hangover Drinks!

You’ll find little bottles near the cashier labeled as “hangover cures” at most Korean convenience stores. Some are ginseng-based, others have raisin tree extracts. They’re surprisingly effective and make a fun souvenir too.

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