The area around Gwanghwamun in Seoul is a representative concentration of office buildings. It houses various government offices, including the Seoul Metropolitan Government, as well as the headquarters of several newspapers. During lunchtime, you can see numerous office workers coming out to have their meals.
This area is known for its dense concentration of restaurants, making it a fun place to explore hidden dining spots.
“Introduced on ‘Infinite Challenge’, Yoo Jae-suk’s Favorite Place – Hwamok Sundae Guk”
Hwamok Sundae Guk gained popularity after being introduced as Yoo Jae-suk’s favorite place on the program ‘Infinite Challenge’. The location featured on the show was in Yeouido, but you can also find Hwamok Sundae Guk in the Gwanghwamun area.
You can find Hwamok Sundae Guk between exits 7 and 8 of Gwanghwamun Station on subway line 5. During lunchtime, you’ll always find a long line of people waiting. This trend continues into the evening as well.
One thing to note is that there are entrances on both sides, but the entrance to go in is on the west side. The east side door is for exiting after your meal, so if you’re waiting to enter, make sure to stand in line on the west side.
If you visit during lunch hours, you’ll likely see a long line of people, indicating its popularity. Some waiting time might be necessary, but it’s worth it for a meal at this sought-after spot.
“Sundae Guk Specialist”
Hwamok Sundae Guk specializes in sundae guk (Korean blood sausage soup). The menu available at the restaurant is simple and straightforward. There are three meal options: “Sundae Guk, Sundae Tang, Naejang Tang”, all priced at 9,000 KRW. If you have a special request, it’s 10,000 KRW. Considering the recent rapid rise in prices and the average prices in the Gwanghwamun area, it’s actually quite affordable.
In addition to sundae guk and naejang tang (intestine soup), there are various side dishes available, including modum (assorted), sulguk (alcohol stew), meorigogi (head meat), naejang (intestines), and sundae (blood sausage).
- Sundae Guk: 9,000 KRW
- Sundae Tang: 9,000 KRW
- Naejang Tang: 9,000 KRW
- Modum: 30,000 KRW
- Sulguk: 20,000 KRW
- Meorigogi: 25,000 KRW
- Naejang Jeopsi (intestine dish): 25,000 KRW
- Sundae: (Large) 24,000 KRW, (Small) 12,000 KRW
“Sundae Guk: 9,000 KRW”
On this day, I ordered Sundae Guk. When you order Sundae Guk, it comes with kimchi, shrimp sauce, onions, and peppers along with ssamjang (a thick spicy paste for wrapping). You can enjoy the Sundae Guk, which is the main dish, along with the side dishes.
Sundae Guk is packed with sundae and intestines, allowing you to enjoy choosing and eating. The sundae itself is not just any cheap sundae; it has a delicious homemade taste, making it a great spot for sundae enthusiasts.
“Simple Interior”
The interior is quite straightforward, giving off a typical restaurant atmosphere. It even has a slightly worn-out feel, giving the impression of a place with a long history.
While it’s a restaurant with great value, it may not be the best place for a special occasion due to its less upscale ambiance.
Located in the Gwanghwamun area of Seoul, Hwamok Sundae Guk is a sundae guk restaurant that stands out in the bustling Gwanghwamun area, always bustling with many people.
“Hwamok Sundae Guk Gwanghwamun 1st Branch, Seoul”
- Address: 11 Saemunan-ro 5-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Zip Code: 03182)
- Phone Number: 02-723-8313
- Business Hours: 24 hours