
The More Simple the Menu, the More Trustworthy the Gukbap and Haejang-guk Restaurants
A place that excels in just one dish has a different menu from the start. Restaurants that focus on a single broth, like gukbap, haejang-guk, or seolleongtang, showcase their ingredient preparation and broth management more clearly. Whether you're traveling or looking for a local eatery, simpler options tend to inspire more trust. Even if they are scattered from Jeju to Seoul and Jeonnam, the atmosphere remains similar. The calm demeanor of long-standing establishments, their unpretentious presentation, and the well-balanced flavor of the broth that can be appreciated with just one spoonful. The fewer items on the menu, the more you can feel the care and skill that goes into each meal.
Restaurant List
Hamdeok Alley
63331 62, Jocheonbuk 6-gil, Jeju-si, Jeju Special Self-Governing ProvinceBusiness Hours 07:00 ~ 13:30"Experience the essence of hangover soup in Jeju at 'Hamdeok Alley'" Located in Jeju's Jocheon, 'Hamdeok Alley' specializes in hangover soup and internal organ soup, and its charm lies in the rich broth and generous ingredients. This popular spot often has long lines of eager customers, earning its reputation as a must-visit hangover soup restaurant in Jeju, thanks to its deep and refreshing broth. The hangover soup at 'Hamdeok Alley' features a clear broth filled with bean sprouts, leafy greens, blood sausage, and plenty of beef, providing a hearty meal. The vibrant broth harmonizes beautifully with the tender blood sausage, and the addition of chili oil enhances the flavor even more. Additionally, the internal organ soup is packed with fresh beef and lamb organs, boasting a savory and deep taste. One of the unique attractions here is the way of enjoying the soup wrapped in perilla leaves and fermented seafood. This combination allows for a richer flavor experience when paired with the broth. Moreover, the restaurant's interior is spacious and cozy, making it an ideal place to visit with friends or family. From Monday to Wednesday, the wait times are relatively short, but on weekends, you may encounter longer waits, so it's advisable to make a reservation in advance using Catch Table. If you're looking for healthy and delicious hangover soup in Jeju, 'Hamdeok Alley' is a must-visit restaurant.
Original Sinchon Seolleongtang
04210 16, Mapo-daero 14-gil, Mapo-gu, SeoulBusiness Hours 06:30 ~ 21:00"The charm of rich broth, Original Sinchon Seolleongtang" Located in Mapo-gu, Seoul, 'Original Sinchon Seolleongtang' is a traditional soup restaurant known for its hearty seolleongtang filled with rich broth and generous portions of meat. It is conveniently located near Gongdeok Station, making it a popular spot that attracts many customers continuously. Particularly, the internal organ soup is the signature dish here, with broth enhanced by chili oil that is visually appealing and boasts a deep, rich flavor. Fresh beef entrails are generously served, providing ample satisfaction in just one bowl. Additionally, both the seolleongtang and internal organ soup are lightly seasoned, allowing guests to adjust the flavor to their liking with salt and pepper for an even more enjoyable experience. 'Original Sinchon Seolleongtang' also offers tender boiled beef head as a side dish, making it an excellent choice for hangover recovery or as an accompaniment to drinks. The clean interior and friendly service make this place even more attractive. 'Original Sinchon Seolleongtang' is the perfect spot to enjoy a comforting meal without any burden, where you can savor the essence of traditional Korean soup.
Pyongyang House
04382 186 Hangang-daero, Yongsan-gu, SeoulBusiness Hours 07:00 ~ 22:00"A treasure of Samgakji that holds the taste of time, 'Pyongyang House'" Located in Samgakji, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, 'Pyongyang House' is a long-established restaurant that has been serving since its opening in 1973. This place is famous for its traditional Korean gopchang and innards dishes, especially the chuck flap and innards soup, which have garnered the love of many food enthusiasts. Opening daily from 7 AM, it is perfect for busy office workers, allowing anyone to enjoy a warm meal at any time. The interior of the restaurant retains a vintage charm, giving a feeling as if stepping into a time machine from the moment you enter. Particularly, the innards soup at Pyongyang House is made with fresh ingredients daily, featuring a rich and clean broth that is exceptional. The soup includes a spicy condiment, adding a fun element as you can easily adjust the flavor to your liking. Additionally, the generous portions of rice and innards ensure that one bowl is enough to satisfy your hunger. In the evening, grilling chuck flap and gopchang adds to the enjoyment, creating an atmosphere that is especially suitable for gatherings or group meals. The savory and rich chuck flap boasts a tender texture, while the gopchang is meticulously cleaned to satisfy both taste and quality. Pyongyang House in Samgakji is a space where tradition and modernity harmoniously blend, making it a friendly restaurant that anyone can visit without hesitation. Experience the depth of Korean cuisine filled with the taste of time and care at this place.
Cheongsil Hongshil
06577 9 Seorae-ro 10-gil, Seocho-gu, SeoulBusiness Hours 11:00 ~ 20:30Break Time 14:30 ~ 17:30"A hidden gem for potato soup in Seorae Village, Cheongsil Hongshil" Located in the heart of Seorae Village, 'Cheongsil Hongshil' boasts a long-standing tradition and is a place where you can experience the essence of potato soup. Praised by celebrities like Sung Si-kyung and Choiza, this restaurant offers not just ordinary gamjatang (pork bone soup) but a rich and savory potato soup that has won the hearts of many. The biggest charm of this place is its rich and clean broth. The potato soup, known for its nutty flavor, is enhanced by tender meat, onions, and green onions, adding umami to the dish. The meal is complemented by the basic side dishes of radish kimchi and regular kimchi, enhancing the joy of dining together. Cheongsil Hongshil uses fresh ingredients daily to provide a healthy meal that is not overly stimulating. Notably, the restaurant does not sell alcohol, maintaining a clean and light atmosphere, and many customers often take their food to go. The interior is cozy yet warm, with old signs and simple decor adding a touch of nostalgia. There may be a wait, but you can place your order in advance while waiting, allowing for a quicker meal. If you're looking for a simple yet deeply flavored potato soup, enjoy a special meal at Cheongsil Hongshil in Seorae Village.
Najin Gukbap
59779 1391 Hwayang-ro, Hwayang-myeon, Yeosu, Jeollanam-doBusiness Hours 10:00 ~ 13:00"The Essence of Yeosu Captured at 'Najin Gukbap'" Located in Hwayang-myeon, Yeosu, 'Najin Gukbap' is a renowned eatery that fully embraces the charm of traditional pork soup, especially gaining fame after being featured in Sung Si-kyung's YouTube program. Its humble exterior and cozy interior evoke a warm feeling reminiscent of a countryside grandmother's house, providing comfort to visitors. The main attraction here is the pork soup made with head meat and a rich broth. The pork is tender and chewy, and when enjoyed with the special dipping sauce, the flavors are elevated even further. The soup is served in a stone pot with a milky broth, packed with bean sprouts, meat, and whole sesame seeds, allowing you to experience both richness and freshness at the same time. Although the operating hours are short and there may be a wait, the exquisite taste makes the wait worthwhile. On weekends, the waiting time can be longer, but the turnover is good, allowing you to be seated relatively quickly. Experience the true flavor of Yeosu at 'Najin Gukbap', a must-visit spot during your Yeosu trip. The gukbap here is more than just a meal; it embodies the spirit of Yeosu.
Delicious Sundae Soup
05093 22, Jayangbyeongyeong-ro 1-gil, Gwangjin-gu, SeoulBusiness Hours 11:00 ~ 21:00Break Time 14:00 ~ 17:00A cozy sundae soup specialty restaurant, 'Delicious Sundae Soup'. Located in Jayang-dong, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, 'Delicious Sundae Soup' is a place where you can experience the new charm of sundae soup. This restaurant became even more famous after being featured on Sung Si-kyung's YouTube channel 'Eating'. It offers a comfortable dining experience in a cozy interior that exudes the charm of a traditional eatery. Particularly, the sundae soup here boasts a clean broth filled with bean sprouts and various innards, delivering a deep flavor from the very first spoonful. Using fresh ingredients ensures there are no off-flavors, and they enhance the taste and texture by using sundae made fresh every morning. Additionally, the radish kimchi and chives served as basic side dishes enrich every meal. Another attraction of 'Delicious Sundae Soup' is the variety of side dishes that pair perfectly with soju. The menu featuring boiled pork and various innards makes for an excellent drinking snack. Come and fully experience the charm of sundae soup here.
Youngchunok
03139 13 Donhwamun-ro 5ga-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul"85 years of tradition, the famous Gomtang spot in Jongno 'Youngchunok'" Located in Jongno 3-ga, 'Youngchunok' is a Gomtang specialty restaurant that has been serving since 1985, boasting a long history and deep flavors. This place operates 24 hours a day, allowing customers to enjoy warm Gomtang at any time, making it a beloved spot for many even late at night. The charm of Youngchunok lies in its rich and clean broth. The Gomtang made with Australian beef delivers a deep flavor, complemented by green onions that add a spicy yet refreshing taste. In particular, the noodles served with a seasoning sauce that can be adjusted to the customer's taste harmonize beautifully with the broth, providing an even richer flavor experience. Additionally, the advantage of this place is that it offers more than just Gomtang; with a variety of dishes such as Oxtail Soup, Hangover Soup, and Bone Soup, customers can enjoy a range of flavors. The interior is simple yet warm, creating a comfortable atmosphere where communication with customers is felt throughout the meal. Youngchunok is a true Gomtang spot that captures the taste at first bite, maintaining a long-standing tradition and consistently receiving love, making it a must-visit restaurant for anyone visiting Jongno.
Pungseong Gamjatang
05043 5 Jayang-ro 18-gil, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul"A famous Gamjatang spot near Guui Station, 'Pungseong Gamjatang'" Located on Jayang-ro in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, 'Pungseong Gamjatang' is a specialized Gamjatang restaurant that has been serving traditional dishes since 1989. Open 24 hours, this place allows you to enjoy a warm meal at any time, and it gained even more popularity after being featured on Sung Si-kyung's YouTube program 'Muk-eul Tende'. The Gamjatang here is available in large, medium, and small sizes, with a visually impressive presentation filled with rich broth and tender meat. Notably, the broth made from fresh ingredients is clean and light, offering a taste that anyone can enjoy without hesitation. The harmony of the seasoned greens and potatoes creates a nutty flavor that will leave you in awe of its depth. One of the charms of 'Pungseong Gamjatang' is the variety of side dishes served with the basic set. Comprising garlic, ssamjang, chili, and chive kimchi, it adds to the fun of enjoying the Gamjatang. Additionally, fried rice is a must-try menu item, as the savory flavor stir-fried in the broth is a delicacy. If you want to enjoy a heartfelt meal in a cozy atmosphere, visit 'Pungseong Gamjatang', which operates 24 hours. It’s a hidden gem in Guui Station, perfect for sharing precious moments with friends and family.
Yongma Haejangguk
02180 20 Yongma Gongwon-ro 5-gil, Jungnang-gu, SeoulBusiness Hours 10:00 ~ 20:00Break Time 14:00 ~ 15:00"The true hangover soup spot in Jungnang-gu, Seoul, 'Yongma Haejangguk'" Located in Mangwoo-dong, Jungnang-gu, Seoul, 'Yongma Haejangguk' is famous for its clear and rich broth hangover soup. This beloved restaurant has been cherished by many for a long time, especially for its hangover soup packed with leafy greens, blood sausage, and beef bones, making it the perfect choice for those seeking relief after a night of drinking or when feeling bloated. The clean and spacious interior creates a comfortable atmosphere, and the gochujang pickles on each table are one of the restaurant's specialties, with many customers wanting to take them home. The napa cabbage kimchi and radish cubes served as side dishes also enhance the meal with their crunchy texture and deep flavor. The hangover soup is always served piping hot, and mixing in minced garlic deepens the flavor even more. The broth filled with bean sprouts, leafy greens, and chewy blood sausage allows you to truly appreciate the essence of hangover soup. The broth here has a unique charm that sets it apart from typical hangover soups, filling you with a refreshing sensation with every bite. Open at set hours daily, it’s particularly popular during lunch hours, so if you plan to visit, it’s best to arrive early. 'Yongma Haejangguk' is a must-visit restaurant for anyone looking for delicious hangover soup in Seoul.
Gwanghwamun Gukbap
04519 53, Sejong-daero 21-gil, Jung-gu, SeoulBusiness Hours 11:00 ~ 21:40"The refreshing soup taste of Seoul, 'Gwanghwamun Gukbap'" Gwanghwamun Gukbap is a Michelin Guide-selected restaurant located on Sejong-daero in Jung-gu, Seoul, famous for its clear and rich pork soup. The gukbap here is made from broth extracted from black pork belly and Duroc pork shoulder, characterized by its clean and light flavor. Unlike the typical milky broth, the deep flavor experienced in the clear soup is beloved by many customers. The restaurant's interior features cozy and efficiently arranged tables, making it suitable for solo diners. There is also a children's gukbap menu, making it a great choice for families. The radish kimchi and squid jeotgal served as basic side dishes create a fantastic harmony with the gukbap, and adding shrimp sauce enhances the depth of flavor. Gwanghwamun Gukbap is noted not only for its excellent taste but also for its reasonable prices. This place offers a hearty meal at an affordable price, making it a popular restaurant visited daily by many office workers and tourists. It is highly recommended for those who want to experience the flavors of Seoul.
Daesungjip
03029 5 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, SeoulBusiness Hours 10:30 ~ 20:00"A Taste of Tradition at 'Daesungjip'" Located in Jongno-gu, Seoul, 'Daesungjip' is a specialized restaurant for doganitang (beef knee soup) with a proud history of 60 years, beloved by many as a top dining spot. Selected by the Michelin Guide 2024, this place is always bustling with visitors and offers a space where one can feel the depth of tradition. Particularly, the doganitang here boasts a rich and deep broth made from a perfect blend of domestic and American beef knee. With chewy beef knee and plenty of meat, one bowl is more than enough to satisfy. Additionally, the fresh side dishes served alongside, especially the homemade kimchi and garlic pickles, harmonize excellently with the broth, making it a perfect hangover soup. On weekends, the restaurant is crowded with many guests, but thanks to the quick turnover, you can enjoy the meal with a relatively short waiting time. Dining here is not just a simple meal; it’s a special experience where you can feel the taste and dedication of tradition. Daesungjip at Independence Gate is a place that beautifully showcases Korean flavors and is definitely worth a visit.
Ssangmi Gopchang Yongsan Branch
19-20, Hangangdaero 15-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea"Experience serene gopchang in Yongsan, Ssangmi Gopchang" Located near Yongsan Station, right by the northern end of the Han River Bridge, Ssangmi Gopchang has become a popular dining spot since its opening, standing out even during construction. The large Chinese character sign on the building's exterior is eye-catching, and the impressive rooftop jangdokdae (traditional Korean earthenware) adds to its charm, creating a unique entrance that feels like stepping through a home’s front door. The interior, featuring wooden elements reminiscent of old Japanese-style houses and soft indirect lighting, offers a cozy atmosphere. Inside, the menu is displayed clearly, and in addition to soft drinks, alcoholic beverages are also available. If you order the gopchang gukbap (gopchang soup with rice) for lunch, it comes in a hot stone pot filled generously, accompanied by side dishes like fresh kimchi, kkakdugi (diced radish kimchi), and jalapeños. The gopchang is thick and the vegetables are plentiful, providing a satisfying crunch, while the broth is spicier than it appears, making it delicious whether enjoyed on its own or mixed with rice for a light yet rich flavor. Not only is the food excellent, but the kindness of the owner and staff also leaves a lasting impression, making for a pleasant dining experience. This is a highly recommended spot for a hearty meal, perfect for days when you crave grilled dishes and hot pots.
The More Simple the Menu, the More Trustworthy the Gukbap and Haejang-guk RestaurantsThis content summarizes points of trust for choosing a meal by grouping together gukbap, haejang-guk, and old restaurants with simple menus nationwide.
A Bowl of Soup from Seoul's Traditional Restaurants, A Hearty Meal in the Old NeighborhoodA guide for those seeking soup meals at traditional restaurants throughout Seoul.
Oceanview Cafés and Dining to Enjoy Slowly While Overlooking the SeaAn introduction to selected oceanview cafés and dining spaces across the country, organized around dessert, brunch, and café themes.
A Comforting Bowl of Noodles and Handmade Dumplings Perfect for Solo DiningThis content organizes noodle and handmade dumpling restaurants across the country, focusing on warm broth and hearty meals suitable for solo dining.
Oceanview Cafe and Dining to Enjoy Slowly with the SeaThis content organizes oceanview cafes and dining spaces across the country, focusing on desserts, brunch, and cafes.





















































































