The Gwanghwamun area in Seoul can be considered one of the representative office-dense areas in the city. During lunchtime, you can see numerous office workers coming out to have their meals. To meet this demand, there are various eateries scattered throughout the area.
One such restaurant is “Odumak,” which can also be found in the Gwanghwamun area. It’s not far from Gwanghwamun Square and can be located to the west of the square.
“Seoul Gwanghwamun Korean Restaurant, Odumak”
Odumak specializes in serving traditional Korean cuisine. You can taste a variety of Korean dishes, including Gongde Rice in a Hot Stone Pot, Jeju Crab Stew, Bibimbap from Jeonju, Beef and Vegetable Soup, and Stir-fried Pork.
Prices start from 10,000 KRW per serving, with slight variations depending on the menu. Considering the recent rapid rise in prices, it can be considered reasonably priced, not overly burdensome.
They also offer lunch menus, which are as follows:
“Lunch Specials”
- King Galbitang (Beef Rib Soup): 17,000 KRW
- Gongde Rice in a Hot Stone Pot: 15,000 KRW
- Countryside Doenjang Stew: 11,000 KRW
- Fresh Soft Tofu Stew: 10,000 KRW
- Premium Soft Tofu Stew with Beef: 11,000 KRW
- Traditional Fermented Soybean Paste Stew: 10,000 KRW
- Fermented Soybean Paste Stew with Beef: 11,000 KRW
- Nutritious Kongbiji (Soybean Pulp Stew): 10,000 KRW
- Countryside Boiled Pork Wraps: 10,000 KRW
- Stir-fried Pork: 10,000 KRW
- Traditional Beef and Vegetable Soup: 11,000 KRW
- Beef and Vegetable Soup with Beef Brisket: 13,000 KRW
- Grilled Mackerel: 13,000 KRW
- Bibimbap from Jeonju: 12,000 KRW
- Bibimbap with Premium Korean Beef Tartare: 14,000 KRW
- Rolled Omelette: 12,000 KRW
- Buckwheat Pancakes: 12,000 KRW
- Fresh Soft Tofu (1 serving): 10,000 KRW
- Golden Barley and Clam Soup: 25,000 KRW
- Nutritious Rice in a Hot Stone Pot: 15,000 KRW
“A Modest Interior”
The atmosphere inside the restaurant is modest. It has a spacious hall with tables spread out. It doesn’t differ significantly from other restaurants. However, there are private dining rooms inside for a more secluded dining experience.
Odumak was also visited by David Beasley, the former Executive Director of the United Nations World Food Programme, on November 22, 2017, where they had dinner.
“Stir-fried Pork with Fermented Soybean Paste: 11,000 KRW”
On that day, I personally ordered the Stir-fried Pork with Fermented Soybean Paste. One of my companions also ordered the same dish, while another ordered Gongde Rice in a Hot Stone Pot. Thanks to this, I was able to capture a photo of Gongde Rice.
After placing the order, a simple set of side dishes is provided. Kimchi and bean sprouts are served, and the inclusion of Japchae (stir-fried glass noodles) as a side dish left a strong impression.
After a short wait, the main dishes arrived. The Stir-fried Pork with Fermented Soybean Paste had chunks of pork, giving it a richer flavor.
This place near Gwanghwamun is a convenient spot to have a decent Korean meal without feeling heavily burdened. However, during lunchtime, it tends to be crowded with office workers. It’s advisable to visit a little earlier or later.
“Seoul Gwanghwamun Korean Restaurant, Odumak”
- Address: 24-5 Saemunan-ro 9-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Phone: 02-734-3371