8 Must-Try McDonald’s Korea Exclusives for 2026! (Only Found in South Korea!)
- lewishooper1
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
From the 2026 Prosperity Burger to regional "Taste of Korea" specials—discover the unique flavors you can only find in South Korea in this article!
McDonald’s Korea is not just your ordinary fast food chain. It has transformed fast food into a culinary powerhouse through its "Taste of Korea" initiative. McDonald’s Korea has teamed up with local farmers. Together, they have created a menu that blends global branding with authentic regional flavors, making it a mandatory stop for any food lover visiting the peninsula in 2026.
Iksan Sweet Potato Mozzarella Burger
First up on our list is this standout burger. It features a crispy croquette made from Iksan’s famous sweet potatoes, paired with gooey mozzarella and a spicy jalapeño mayo. In my opinion, the creamy sweetness of the potato combined with the kick of the mayo creates a flavor profile far more flavorful than your average fast-food burger. This is Dojeon's must-try item!!
Prosperity Burger (2026 Edition)
If you are after a New Year's staple, then this long-patty burger comes with a peppery black pepper sauce and is often paired with the iconic gold-standard Curly Fries. In my opinion, it is the ultimate "comfort food" of the Korean winter, especially when you collect the limited-edition "Prosperity Pals" plushies released this year. I also love black pepper, so this burger really is a win-win!
Jindo Green Onion Cream Croquette Burger
This fan-favorite uses scallions from Jindo Island mixed into a thick, savory cream cheese croquette that sits atop a beef patty. In my opinion, this is the most creative use of a vegetable in fast food history, perfectly capturing the aromatic, "green" flavor of Korean cuisine. This item also stands out on the menu for having one of the best consumer feedback since it has been released, so if you are visiting Korea, you MUST try this burger!
Jinju Pepper Cream Cheese Burger
Integrating spicy peppers from the Jinju region, this burger offers a sharp heat that is tempered by a rich, savory cream cheese sauce. In my opinion, if you enjoy the heat of a jalapeño but want something more uniquely Korean, the Jinju pepper provides a much cleaner and more refreshing spicy finish. Whenever I have had this burger, the cheese literally complements the flavors really well, and it has left me wanting to eat more and more!
Double McSpicy Shanghai Burger
A permanent icon in Korea, this 2026 version doubles up on the spicy, rice-flour-coated chicken patties for maximum crunch and heat. In my opinion, the rice flour coating makes this significantly crunchier and less greasy than chicken burgers found in the West, making it a must-try for texture lovers. In my opinion, this is a MUST-try during your visit! It has been said that Koreans love spicy food, so will this hit the spot?
Naju Pear & Hallabong Chillers
Next, there are slushies. In Korea, they use premium pears from Naju and citrus from Jeju Island to provide a refreshing, naturally sweet alternative to soda. In my opinion, the Naju Pear Chiller is the perfect palate cleanser because it tastes exactly like a fresh, crisp Korean pear rather than artificial syrup. It is particularly great because they use local products in order to stand out and find a place in the Korean marketplace!
Bulgogi Burger & Egg Bulgogi
Up next is the Bulgogi Burger. This has remained a classic, featuring a pork-based patty drenched in a sweet, traditional soy-based bulgogi glaze. If you have not tried this yet, then you are in for a treat! In my opinion, adding the domestic first-grade egg makes it much more filling and authentic, effectively turning a quick snack into a hearty meal. So what are you waiting for?
Apple Pie (The 2026 Return)
Last up on our list is the humble apple pie! Actually, as a kid, I remember eating McDonald's apple pie, and to hear it is set to return in 2026 is great! It is, however, a limited-time return to Korean stores. In my opinion, while Korea focuses heavily on savory innovations, this crispy, cinnamon-heavy classic is still the best way to end a meal at McDonald's.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are a fan of sweet-and-savory combinations or a seeker of regional specialties and one-offs, McDonald's Korea offers a dining experience that feels local. These eight items represent the pinnacle of fast-food fusion in 2026, proving that even a global giant can find its heart in the local countryside, making each item on the menu even more special!
What is your go-to McDonald's order in Korea?
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