| Pojangmacha | |
 Customers seated at apojangmacha inGwangju (2006) | |
| Korean name | |
|---|---|
| Hangul | 포장마차 |
| Hanja | 布帳馬車 |
| Revised Romanization | pojangmacha |
| McCune–Reischauer | p'ojangmach'a |
Pojangmacha (Korean: 포장마차;lit. 'covered wagon'),[1] also abbreviated aspocha (포차), is a South Korean term for outdoor carts that sellstreet foods such ashotteok,gimbap,tteokbokki,sundae,dak-kkochi (Korean skewered chicken),[2]fish cake,mandu, andanju (foods accompanying drinks).[3] In the evening, many of these establishments serve alcoholic beverages such assoju.[4]
Pojangmacha is a popular place to have snacks or drink late into the night. The food sold in these places can usually be eaten quickly while standing or taken away. Some offer cheap chairs or benches for customers to sit, especially the ones serving late night customers who come to drink soju.[5]
As of 2012[update], there were approximately 3,100 pocha inSeoul.[6]
Jongno is the most famous area for Pojangmacha but you can still find some decent food inGwangjang Market. Some pojangmacha in Jongno and other areas now offer set menus, with a combination of individual snacks put together in one plate.
Pojangmacha developed in the 1950s, after theend of Japanese rule in 1945. Vendors operated then much as they do today, although their equipment has changed. Mobile food carts were made stationary, wooden poles were erected around the cart, and cotton cloth would be hung around the cart to protect it and the customers from the elements. Over time, wood changed to metal, and cotton changed totarpaulin.Carbide lamps were converted toincandescent lights,fluorescent lights, and then toLEDs.[7]
Popular foods in the 1950s includednaengmyeon (cold noodles),sundae (sausages),bindae-tteok (mung bean pancakes),mandu (dumplings), and grilled seafood. During this period,pojangmacha served refugees during theKorean War. Stalls also served alcohol, includingsoju,makgeolli, and beer.[7]
Since the 1980s,pojangmacha staple foods have reportedly remained relatively consistent. Around that time, stalls in Seoul, particularly in the Gangnam area, began receiving water dedicated water and electricity.[7]
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In recent times,pocha has become an aesthetic in itself.[7] They feature prominently inSouth Korean dramas andfilms.[8] Some indoor restaurants and bars attempt to replicate the aesthetic, and are dubbed "indoorpojangmacha" (실내 포장마차).[7][8]
Some stalls inJongno,Seoul, and other places offer set menus. For example,Gimbap,tteokbokki, andsundae are served on one plate.[8]
