South Korea_Discovering Insadong Street: The Heart of Traditional Seoul

 If you want to experience the cultural soul of Seoul, Insadong Street (인사동 거리) is the perfect destination. Located in Jongno-gu, this lively pedestrian street is a unique blend of tradition and modernity, offering visitors a chance to explore Korean art, crafts, tea culture, and delicious street food all in one place.

🌿 What to See in Insadong

1. Traditional Antique Shops
   Insadong is famous for its antique art galleries and craft stores. Here, you can find everything from handmade ceramics, traditional fans, and calligraphy brushes to unique souvenirs that capture Korea’s cultural heritage.

   

   

   
   

2. Ssamziegil (쌈지길)
   A must-visit shopping complex in the heart of Insadong. Its spiral walkway takes you past dozens of small artisan shops selling handmade jewelry, pottery, stationery, and quirky gifts. It’s the perfect spot to find something unique to take home.

   

   

3. Hanbok Experience
   Many shops in Insadong offer hanbok (한복) rental. Walking down the street dressed in colorful traditional clothing makes the experience even more memorable.

   

   

4. Tea Houses (전통 찻집)
   Step into one of the many traditional tea houses, often hidden in narrow alleys. These serene spaces serve authentic Korean teas like omija (five-flavor berry tea) or insam-cha (ginseng tea), offering a peaceful break from the bustling street.

   

   

🍢 What to Eat in Insadong

1. Street Snacks

   • Hotteok (호떡): Sweet pancakes filled with brown sugar, nuts, and cinnamon.

     

     
     

   • Dragon’s Beard Candy (꿀타래): A traditional Korean candy made with thousands of thin sugar strands wrapped around nuts. Watching it being made is a performance itself!

     

2. Insadong Specialty Restaurants

   • Traditional Korean Set Meals (한정식): Several restaurants in Insadong serve multi-course meals with seasonal side dishes, grilled fish, and soups.

     

     
     

   • Bibimbap (비빔밥): A colorful rice bowl topped with assorted vegetables, beef, egg, and spicy gochujang sauce.

     

     
     

   • Makgeolli (막걸리) Pubs: Try Korea’s traditional rice wine paired with savory pancakes (jeon).

     

     
     

3. Unique Cafés
   Many modern cafés in Insadong mix tradition with creativity. For example, you can sip a latte served in a ceramic teacup or enjoy desserts inspired by traditional Korean flavors like green tea, red bean, and yuzu.

   

   

   
   

🎨 Why Visit Insadong?

Insadong is more than just a street—it’s a cultural journey. From buying unique souvenirs and enjoying traditional performances, to tasting Korea’s iconic street food, this vibrant neighborhood is the perfect place to experience both the old and new sides of Seoul. Whether you’re a history lover, foodie, or casual traveler, Insadong will leave you with unforgettable memories.

👉 Travel Tip: The best time to visit is on weekends when the main street becomes a pedestrian-only zone, making it easier to explore the shops and enjoy street performances.

South Korea_Discover Hun Jang Gol in Ilsan Pung-dong – A True Korean Barbecue Experience

 If you are traveling in Ilsan and looking for a truly authentic Korean barbecue restaurant, Hun Jang Gol (훈장골) in Pung-dong is a place you should not miss. This long-loved local spot is famous among residents for its generous portions, traditional flavors, and warm Korean hospitality.

What Makes Hun Jang Gol Special?

Unlike many modern-style barbecue chains, Hun Jang Gol keeps the atmosphere cozy and traditional. The restaurant uses quality cuts of pork and beef, grilled right at your table over charcoal for that smoky, irresistible flavor. Side dishes (banchan) are always freshly prepared and unlimited, which means you’ll experience the full richness of Korean dining culture.

Must-Try Dishes at Hun Jang Gol

1. Galbi (갈비 – Marinated Beef Short Ribs)

• Price: Around ₩28,000 per serving (200g)

• Juicy and flavorful beef short ribs marinated in a sweet soy-based sauce. This dish is tender, savory, and slightly sweet, making it a perfect introduction to Korean BBQ for first-timers.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

Dining Tips for Foreign Visitors

• Portion sizes: One serving is usually enough for one person, but Korean BBQ is best enjoyed by sharing.

• Grilling style: The staff often helps you cook the meat at your table, but you can also try grilling it yourself.

• Drinks: Pair your meal with soju (₩5,000) or Korean beer (₩4,000) for the full experience.

Location & Atmosphere

Hun Jang Gol is located in Pung-dong, Ilsan, a neighborhood known for its quiet and family-friendly vibe. The restaurant is casual, welcoming, and suitable for both groups of friends and families.

📍 Address: 풍동, 일산 (Ilsan, Pung-dong, Korea)
🕒 Opening Hours: Usually from 5:00 PM – Midnight (hours may vary)

Final Thoughts

If you want to experience Korean BBQ the way locals enjoy it, Hun Jang Gol in Ilsan Pung-dong is the perfect spot. The quality of meat, flavorful side dishes, and traditional atmosphere make it a must-visit restaurant for anyone who wants more than just a touristy dining experience.

South Korea_🍴 Discovering “Jecheol Boyak” – A Seasonal Seafood Gem in Ilsan

 If you’re visiting Korea and looking for a truly local dining experience, “Jecheol Boyak” in Ilsan (Goyang city) is a hidden gem worth exploring. The name literally means “Seasonal Tonic”, and just like a tonic for your body, this restaurant specializes in serving the freshest seasonal seafood that feels both nourishing and indulgent.

📍 Location & Atmosphere

• Name: Jecheol Boyak

• Address: 47 Wishity-ro, #104-105, Siksa-dong, Ilsan Dong-gu, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do

• Opening Hours:

  • Tue – Sat: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM (Last order at 11:00 PM)

  • Sun: 5:00 PM – 10:30 PM

  • Closed on Mondays

The atmosphere here is a cozy mix of modern seafood dining and traditional Korean vibes. The restaurant is spacious enough for groups, with both table seating and traditional floor seating available. Since the menu changes daily based on the freshest catch, you can expect something new each time you visit.

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🍽️ Must-Try Dishes

Here are three signature dishes that foreigners especially love when visiting Jecheol Boyak:

Dish	Description	Price
Assorted “Makhoe” (골고루 막회)	A colorful platter of assorted raw fish mixed with fresh vegetables, flying fish roe, and Korean-style sauces like soy-based or spicy chili paste. It’s refreshing, tangy, and full of textures.	Around ₩36,000
Whole Steamed Squid (동해안 오징어 통찜)	A whole squid steamed to perfection, bringing out its natural sweetness and tender bite. Often served plain with dipping sauces, it’s simple yet incredibly satisfying.	Around ₩19,000
Premium Sea Urchin from Goseong (고성 보라 성게)	A delicacy straight from Korea’s east coast. This seasonal sea urchin has a rich, creamy flavor that seafood lovers will adore. Sometimes paired with sweet shrimp or seaweed.	Around ₩38,000

🌟 Why You Should Visit

• Seasonal Experience: Every visit offers a different taste of Korea’s four seasons through seafood.

• Authentic Korean Dining: Perfect chance to experience Korean-style raw fish culture, which is unique compared to Japanese sashimi.

• Great for Foodies & Travelers: With daily menu updates and carefully selected ingredients, it’s a memorable dining experience that goes beyond just eating.

South Korea_Jayang Traditional Market – A Local Foodie Paradise in Seoul

 

If you want to experience the authentic charm of Korean daily life, Jayang Traditional Market in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, is a must-visit. Just a 5-minute walk from Guui Station (Line 2, Exit 4), this market has been around since 1972 and is home to over 130 shops. From fresh produce and seafood to household items and—most importantly—delicious street food, this is where locals come to eat and shop.

✨ Must-Try Eateries in Jayang Market

Here are three highly recommended food spots you shouldn’t miss:

1. Soumunnan Mandu (소문난 만두 – Famous Dumplings)

• Menu & Prices:

  • Steamed dumplings (10 pcs) – 2,000 KRW (~$1.50)

  • Twisted donuts (4 pcs) – 1,000 KRW (~$0.75)

  • Glutinous rice donuts, red bean donuts, croquettes – 1,000–2,000 KRW

• Why You Should Try It:
  This is one of the most popular snack stalls in the market. The dumplings are plump and flavorful, while the donuts and croquettes are light, crispy, and sweet. It’s the perfect budget-friendly snack stop for travelers.

  

  
  
  
  

  

2. Bau Dakgangjeong (바우 닭강정 – Korean Fried Chicken)

• Menu & Prices:

  • Fried chicken (medium size) – 7,000 KRW (~$5.25)

  • Sweet, Spicy, Soy Sauce, Mustard chicken (medium size) – 8,000 KRW (~$6)

• Why You Should Try It:
  Koreans love chicken, and this spot is all about crispy fried chicken coated in flavorful sauces. The portion size is generous—perfect for sharing with a friend while you continue exploring the market.

  

  

  
  
  
  

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3. Hotteok & Traditional Snacks (호떡과 한과)

• Menu & Prices:

  • Hotteok (Korean sweet pancake) – 1,000 KRW (~$0.75) each

  • Red bean donuts (2 pcs) – 1,000 KRW

  • Croquettes, steamed buns – 1,000 KRW

• Why You Should Try It:
  Hotteok is one of Korea’s most beloved winter street foods. The chewy pancake filled with sweet syrup is comforting and delicious. At this stall, you’ll also find a variety of traditional Korean snacks at very affordable prices.

  

  

  

  
  
  
  

🛍️ Why Visit Jayang Market?

Walking through the narrow alleys, you’ll see stalls filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, and even herbal medicine. The vendors are warm and welcoming, and the atmosphere is lively—especially in the evening when food stalls get busier.

Another bonus? Most items are incredibly cheap compared to downtown Seoul. With just 20,000 KRW (~$15), you can enjoy dumplings, fried chicken, hotteok, and still have money left for drinks or extra snacks.

📌 Visitor Tips

• Getting There: 5-minute walk from Guui Station (Line 2, Exit 4)

• Opening Hours: Most stalls open from 9 AM to 12 PM, while some food vendors (like Bau Dakgangjeong) stay open until late evening. Many shops are closed on Tuesdays.

• Parking: A market parking lot is available, with free parking for up to 1 hour if you make a purchase above a certain amount.

• Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon to evening when food stalls are the busiest.

🌟 Final Thoughts

Jayang Traditional Market isn’t just about food—it’s about experiencing local life in Seoul. Whether you’re tasting budget-friendly dumplings, enjoying crispy fried chicken, or warming up with hotteok, this market will give you an authentic slice of Korean culture.

👉 If you’re looking for a place that combines great food, affordable prices, and a lively atmosphere, Jayang Traditional Market is the spot for you.

South Korea_A Hidden Chinese Noodle Gem in Sokcho: Gabo O Tojongdak (가보오토종닭)

 When people think of Sokcho, they often imagine fresh seafood and mountain-side cuisine. But tucked away in the city is an unexpected culinary delight — Gabo O Tojongdak, a restaurant famous not for chicken as its name suggests, but for authentic Chinese-style noodles like Jajangmyeon and Jjamppong.

🍜 Must-Try Menu

• Jajangmyeon (짜장면)
  Korean-style black bean noodles with a rich, savory sauce. The noodles are perfectly chewy, and the sauce comes with pork, onions, and zucchini.
  Price: around 11,000 KRW per bowl

  

  
  

• Jjamppong (짬뽕)
  A spicy seafood noodle soup, loaded with squid, mussels, and shrimp, in a deep red broth. The flavor is bold and comforting, especially on a cool Sokcho evening.
  Price: around 10,000 KRW per bowl

  

  
  

• Tangsuyuk (탕수육)
  Crispy sweet-and-sour pork, a perfect side dish to share with friends. The balance of crunchy texture and tangy sauce makes it a crowd favorite.
  Price: around 16,000 KRW (small) – 23,000 KRW (large)

  

  

  
  
  

  

  
  

📍 Location

• Address: 44-1, Jungang-ro 46beon-gil, Sokcho-si, Gangwon-do, South Korea (강원 속초시 중앙로46번길 44-1)

• Nearby Landmark: Just a short walk from Sokcho Central Market (속초 중앙시장).

• Transportation: From Sokcho Express Bus Terminal, it takes about 10 minutes by taxi.

  

  
  
  

💡 Why Visit?

Although its name might make you expect chicken dishes, locals know Gabo O Tojongdak as a go-to spot for comforting Chinese-Korean cuisine. The flavors are authentic, portions are generous, and prices are budget-friendly. Whether you’re craving the savory sweetness of Jajangmyeon or the fiery kick of Jjamppong, this restaurant is a must-try while exploring Sokcho.

👉 Next time you’re near Sokcho Central Market, don’t just shop — treat yourself to a steaming bowl of noodles at Gabo O Tojongdak.