Prepare the Rice Cakes: Soak the rice cakes in warm water for 10–15 minutes if they're hard or refrigerated. This ensures they soften and cook evenly. Meanwhile, slice the fish cakes and chop the green onions. Gather all other ingredients to streamline the cooking process.

Make the Sauce: In a deep pan, mix gochujang, sugar, soy sauce, and minced garlic with water to create a smooth sauce. Adjust sweetness or spice to taste. Heat the sauce over medium heat, stirring continuously to prevent burning and ensure the flavors meld.

Cook the Rice Cakes: Add the softened rice cakes and fish cakes to the pan. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The rice cakes should absorb the sauce, becoming soft and chewy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Finish with Green Onions: Once the sauce thickens, sprinkle chopped green onions over the tteokbokki. For added flavor, you can top the dish with sesame seeds or a drizzle of sesame oil. Serve immediately, ensuring the dish remains warm and flavorful.