South Korea_A Hidden Gem in Ilsan: Paldang Naengmyeon – Cold Noodles with a Meaty Bonus

 

If you're traveling in Korea during the summer and craving something cool, refreshing, and satisfying — let me introduce you to a local favorite: Paldang Naengmyeon (팔당냉면) in Ilsan.

This place is famous not only for its icy cold noodles but also for something extra special — a generous serving of tender boiled pork (suyuk) served together with the noodles.
Yes, you read that right. Cold noodles and meat in one meal. It's the perfect balance of refreshing and hearty.

🌟 What is Naengmyeon?

Naengmyeon (냉면) is a traditional Korean dish made with cold noodles and typically served in one of two ways:

• Mul Naengmyeon (물냉면): Noodles in a tangy, icy broth, topped with sliced cucumber, Korean pear, a boiled egg, and sometimes beef.

  

  
  

• Bibim Naengmyeon (비빔냉면): Cold noodles mixed with a spicy-sweet gochujang (red chili paste) sauce, served without broth.

  

  
  

At Paldang Naengmyeon, both versions come with a twist — boiled pork slices served on the side, creating a combination you didn’t know you needed.

🍜 Why Paldang Naengmyeon Stands Out

Here’s what makes this spot special:

• ✅ Cold noodles served with meat — no need to order it separately!

• ✅ Deep, flavorful broth — made from slow-simmered bones

• ✅ Handmade buckwheat noodles — chewy and satisfying

• ✅ Homemade side dishes — especially the kimchi!

• ✅ Fast service — even when it’s busy

The atmosphere is simple and local — filled with families, office workers, and regulars. There’s no English menu, but don’t worry — just say “Mul Naengmyeon” or “Bibim Naengmyeon” and you’re good to go. And if you love the meat, you can even order more as a side.

📝 Insider Tips

• Go before peak lunch hours to avoid the lines

• Ask for scissors — Koreans often cut the noodles for easier eating

• Want it less spicy? Say “Deol maepge hae juseyo” (덜 맵게 해 주세요)

• Extra meat? You can order an additional plate of suyuk if you want more!

📍 How to Get There

Take Line 3 on the Seoul subway to Jeongbalsan Station. From there, it’s about a 10-minute taxi ride or a short bus trip.
Search for “팔당냉면 일산 (Paldang Naengmyeon Ilsan)” on Naver Map or KakaoMap — both apps support English and are very useful for navigating Korea.

💬 Final Thoughts

Paldang Naengmyeon is more than just a cold noodle shop — it’s a place where refreshing noodles meet savory pork for a complete and balanced meal. The price is fair, the flavors are deep, and the experience feels authentically local.

If you're looking to eat like a local and beat the Korean summer heat, this is a must-try.

Cold noodles + boiled pork = Korean summer at its best.