In a mixing bowl, dissolve the sugar in the lukewarm water. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
Add the flour and salt to the bowl and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
In a separate bowl, mix together the brown sugar, crushed nuts, honey, and cinnamon to make the filling.
Once the dough has risen, divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten it into a small disk.
Place a spoonful of the filling mixture in the center of each dough disk. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling and pinch to seal.
Heat some vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Place the filled dough balls seam side down in the pan and flatten them slightly with a spatula.
Cook the hotteok for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
Serve hot and enjoy the deliciously sweet and crunchy hotteok!
Enjoy!