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Seoul itinerary, Sangsu, Mangwon, Hongdae

Tag: Hongdae

  • Hyeongnim Jeoyo Hongdae: Jensen Huang’s Korean BBQ Dinner Spot in Seoul

    Hyeongnim Jeoyo Hongdae: Jensen Huang’s Korean BBQ Dinner Spot in Seoul

    Hyeongnim Jeoyo Hongdae: Jensen Huang’s Korean BBQ Dinner Spot in Seoul

    Hyeongnim Jeoyo, written in Korean as 형님저요, is a Korean pork BBQ restaurant near Hongdae in Mapo-gu, Seoul. The restaurant has recently drawn major attention after Korean and international business media reported it as the venue for NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang’s samgyeopsal and soju dinner with leading Korean business figures.

    For travelers, Hyeongnim Jeoyo is now more than just a local Korean BBQ restaurant. It has become part of a timely Seoul food story connecting Hongdae’s casual dining culture with Korea’s AI, semiconductor, and business scene.

    What Does “Hyeongnim Jeoyo” Mean?

    The Korean name 형님저요 is playful and casual. Hyeongnim means “older brother” or “big brother,” often used in a friendly or familiar way among men in Korea. Jeoyo roughly means “me, please” or “I’m here.” The phrase sounds informal, humorous, and very Korean, which makes the restaurant name memorable even for visitors who do not speak Korean.

    For English readers, it is best to keep the name as Hyeongnim Jeoyo or Hyungnim Jeoyo, followed by the Korean name in parentheses: Hyeongnim Jeoyo (형님저요).

    Why Hyeongnim Jeoyo Is Getting Attention

    Hyeongnim Jeoyo became widely discussed after reports said Jensen Huang visited the restaurant for a Korean BBQ dinner with SK Chairman Chey Tae-won, LG Chairman Koo Kwang-mo, and Naver founder Lee Hae-jin. The gathering was described in Korean media as a “samso” dinner, combining samgyeopsal, or grilled pork belly, with soju.

    The media coverage focused not only on the business leaders at the table, but also on the very Korean setting: pork belly grilled at the table, soju and beer, casual toasts, and a lively crowd outside the restaurant. For international visitors, this makes Hyeongnim Jeoyo an interesting example of how Korean BBQ culture can become part of a larger public moment.

    A Long-Running Pork BBQ Spot in Hongdae

    Before the Jensen Huang visit, Hyeongnim Jeoyo was already known as a pork BBQ restaurant in the Hongdae area. Local reports describe it as a long-running samgyeopsal restaurant that opened in 1997. Its location near Hongik University Station makes it easy to reach for travelers exploring Hongdae, Yeonnam-dong, and the wider Mapo area.

    The restaurant is commonly associated with charcoal-grilled pork, especially samgyeopsal. Local menu references also mention pork cuts such as galmaegisal, pork neck, Iberico-style pork, and beef short rib meat. As with many Korean BBQ restaurants, the appeal is not just one single dish but the full table experience: grilled meat, side dishes, sauces, wraps, and drinks shared with the group.

    What to Order

    • Real Samgyeopsal: The signature pork belly option most closely connected to the restaurant’s recent media attention.
    • Galmaegisal: A pork skirt-meat cut often enjoyed for its chewy texture and deeper flavor.
    • Iberico pork cuts: A richer pork option mentioned in local menu references.
    • Beef short rib meat: A non-pork option for visitors who want to mix the meal.
    • Cold noodles or stew-based sides: Useful as a finishing dish after grilled meat.

    Location and Access

    Hyeongnim Jeoyo is located near Hongik University Station in Mapo-gu, Seoul. The restaurant is especially convenient for travelers staying around Hongdae, Hapjeong, Yeonnam, or Mangwon. If you are planning a Hongdae evening route, this restaurant can fit naturally after shopping, cafés, live music streets, or a walk through Yeonnam-dong.

    Because the restaurant has received significant media attention, waiting times and crowd levels may change quickly. It is best to check the latest information on Google Maps, Naver Map, or a Korean reservation/waiting app before visiting.

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    For Travelers Visiting Hongdae

    Hongdae is one of Seoul’s most active neighborhoods for nightlife, casual food, cafés, street culture, and independent shops. A Korean BBQ dinner at Hyeongnim Jeoyo can be a practical choice if you want a local-style meal without leaving the Hongdae area.

    For first-time visitors, Korean pork BBQ is usually a shared meal. Meat is grilled at the table and eaten with lettuce or perilla leaves, garlic, sauces, kimchi, and other side dishes. Drinks such as soju, beer, or somaek are common, but the restaurant can also be enjoyed simply as a food stop.

    Quick Visitor Note

    Menus, prices, opening hours, waiting rules, and reservation availability can change. Check the latest map listing or restaurant platform information before visiting. Also, media-related attention may increase crowds, especially in the days following major news coverage.

  • 弘大、合井與延南洞一日遊：首爾在地散步路線推薦

    弘大、合井與延南洞一日遊：首爾在地散步路線推薦

    🌿 為什麼旅人會喜歡弘大、合井與延南洞？

    許多第一次來首爾旅行的人，通常會先想到景福宮、明洞、江南等知名景點。這些地方當然值得一去，但如果想感受更貼近日常生活的首爾，弘大、合井與延南洞一帶會是非常好的選擇。

    這裡有年輕、有創意，也有很舒服的生活感。你可以在安靜的巷弄中散步，走進小咖啡廳，品嚐在地人喜歡的餐廳，也可以一路走到漢江邊，看見首爾比較柔和的一面。

    這一帶最大的優點是動線很自然。很多景點、餐廳與咖啡廳彼此距離不遠，不需要安排太複雜的交通，也不用一直搭計程車。只要穿一雙好走的鞋，就可以慢慢享受一整天。

    🚶 首爾西側一日散步路線

    上午：從延南洞開始慢慢散步

    一天的行程可以從延南洞開始。這裡是首爾非常受歡迎的住宅型街區，比起大型商圈，延南洞的節奏更慢，也更有生活感。

    巷弄裡有許多小型咖啡廳、麵包店、選物店與獨立商店。這裡不一定需要特別安排目的地，隨意散步反而更容易遇見驚喜。

    推薦從京義線森林公園開始走起。這是一條由舊鐵道改建而成的綠色步道，穿過延南洞一帶，讓繁忙的首爾多了一點安靜與柔和。

    天氣好的時候，很多當地人會買一杯咖啡，在公園旁坐下休息。春天與秋天尤其舒服，非常適合慢慢走、慢慢拍照。

    中午：在合井品嚐在地人氣餐廳

    上午散步之後，可以往合井方向移動，安排午餐。

    如果想品嚐韓國人也喜歡的溫暖湯品，可以考慮Okdongsik（옥동식）。這裡以清澈的韓式豬肉湯飯聞名，味道乾淨、簡單，和一般濃厚湯品相比，是另一種細膩的韓式風味。

    如果喜歡麵食，Oreno Ramen（오레노라멘）也是合井一帶很受歡迎的選擇。雖然是拉麵店，但它已經成為許多人提到合井美食時會想到的代表餐廳之一。

    喜歡海鮮丼飯的旅客，也可以考慮Mibbedong（미쁘동）。這家店在年輕韓國人之間很有人氣，適合想嘗試比較輕鬆、現代感餐點的旅人。

    這一帶的餐廳不像大型觀光區那樣制式，很多店都帶有明顯的在地氣氛。吃一餐飯，也像是順便認識這個街區。

    下午：感受弘大的年輕能量

    午餐後，可以慢慢走向弘大。弘大長久以來都與音樂、藝術、街頭文化和年輕人的生活方式連結在一起。

    這裡有服飾店、咖啡廳、街頭表演、音樂空間與各種小店。週末或傍晚時段，主要街道常常可以看到表演者聚集，氣氛非常熱鬧。

    不過，弘大的魅力不只在主街。建議也走進旁邊的小巷，會看到復古店、獨立品牌、書店與比較安靜的咖啡廳。

    如果不想把行程排得太滿，弘大其實很適合用「散步」的方式體驗。沒有固定目的地，反而更能感受到這個區域的自由與活力。

    午後：到望遠市場感受首爾日常

    從弘大再往西走，可以安排前往望遠市場。

    望遠市場是首爾西側很受歡迎的傳統市場。相較於一些大型觀光市場，這裡的氣氛更貼近當地居民的日常生活。

    市場裡有各種小吃、熟食、蔬果、雜貨與在地商店。旅客可以在這裡感受韓國傳統市場的熱鬧，也能用比較輕鬆的方式嘗試不同的小吃。

    即使不打算吃太多東西，走進市場看看人們買東西、聊天、排隊的樣子，也是一種很有趣的旅行體驗。

    傍晚：在望遠漢江公園看夕陽

    一天的最後，可以到望遠漢江公園放慢腳步。

    漢江對首爾人來說，不只是河流，也是日常生活的一部分。下班後散步、騎腳踏車、野餐、和朋友聊天，都是很常見的風景。

    傍晚時分，望遠漢江公園的氣氛特別舒服。太陽慢慢落下，城市的輪廓映在河面上，周圍的人也各自享受著一天中最放鬆的時刻。

    如果天氣不錯，可以在附近買些簡單的飲料或小吃，到河邊坐一會兒。這種不需要太多安排的片刻，常常會成為旅途中最難忘的記憶。

    🍜 弘大、合井附近推薦餐廳

    • Okdongsik（옥동식）：以韓式豬肉湯飯聞名，適合想品嚐清爽韓式湯品的旅人。
    • Oreno Ramen（오레노라멘）：合井一帶非常受歡迎的拉麵店，適合喜歡麵食的人。
    • Mibbedong（미쁘동）：以海鮮丼飯與鮭魚料理受到年輕人喜愛。
    • Kaden Udon（카덴）：手工烏龍麵名店，口感有特色，適合喜歡日式麵食的旅客。
    • Geumdwaeji Sikdang（금돼지식당）：首爾知名韓式烤肉店，適合想體驗韓國烤肉文化的旅人。

    📍 推薦順路景點

    • 弘大街區：街頭表演、購物、咖啡廳與夜晚氣氛。
    • 延南洞咖啡街：小型咖啡廳、選物店與適合散步的巷弄。
    • 京義線森林公園：由舊鐵道改建的綠色步道，是首爾很舒服的散步路線。
    • 望遠市場：在地人也常去的傳統市場，可以感受韓國日常美食文化。
    • 望遠漢江公園：適合看夕陽、散步、野餐與欣賞漢江風景。

    💡 小提醒

    建議穿著好走的鞋子。 這條路線最適合用步行慢慢體驗，許多有趣的小店和風景都藏在巷弄裡。

    平日上午通常比較安靜，週末和傍晚則會更熱鬧。如果想拍照或悠閒散步，可以選擇較早的時間出發。

    餐廳營業時間、休息日與等候時間可能會變動，出發前建議再次確認最新資訊。

    ✨ 結語

    弘大、合井與延南洞的魅力，不只來自某一個特定景點，而是來自這些街區自然連在一起的氛圍。

    一天之內，你可以從安靜的住宅巷弄走到熱鬧的年輕商圈，從在地市場走到漢江邊，也可以在咖啡廳、餐廳與小店之間，慢慢感受首爾的日常節奏。

    如果你想看到不只觀光景點，而是更貼近生活的首爾，那麼弘大、合井與延南洞會是一條很值得安排的一日散步路線。

  • 1 Day in Hongdae, Hapjeong, and Yeonnam: A Local’s Walking Guide to Seoul

      🌿 Why Travelers Love Hongdae, Hapjeong, and Yeonnam

      Many first-time visitors to Seoul focus on famous landmarks such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, Myeong-dong, or Gangnam. While those places are worth visiting, many locals would say that the real charm of Seoul can be found in its neighborhoods.

      The areas around Hongdae, Hapjeong, and Yeonnam-dong offer a different side of the city. Here, you can spend the day walking through quiet streets, discovering local restaurants, relaxing in cafés, and enjoying the atmosphere along the Han River.

      One of the best things about this part of Seoul is that everything is connected. You don’t need taxis or a complicated itinerary. Most attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to enjoy the city at a comfortable pace.

      🚶 One-Day Walking Route in Western Seoul

      Morning: A Relaxed Walk Through Yeonnam-dong

      Start your day in Yeonnam-dong, one of Seoul’s most charming residential neighborhoods.

      Small cafés, independent boutiques, bakeries, and quiet alleys create an atmosphere that feels very different from the busy city center. The neighborhood is especially popular among young locals who enjoy slow mornings and relaxed afternoons.

      A great place to begin is Gyeongui Line Forest Park, a green walking path built on a former railway line. The park stretches through the neighborhood and provides a peaceful escape from the city’s traffic and noise.

      As you walk, don’t worry too much about following a strict route. Some of the best discoveries in Yeonnam-dong are the small shops and cafés hidden in side streets.

      Lunch: Taste Some Local Favorites

      After your morning walk, head toward Hapjeong for lunch.

      If you would like to try a restaurant loved by locals, consider visiting Okdongsik, known for its clear and comforting pork soup. For noodle lovers, Oreno Ramen is one of Seoul’s most popular ramen restaurants.

      Another excellent option is Mibbedong, which is known for seafood rice bowls and is particularly popular among younger Korean diners.

      Unlike large tourist districts, dining in this area often feels more personal and connected to the local community.

      Afternoon: Explore the Energy of Hongdae

      After lunch, continue toward Hongdae, one of Seoul’s most vibrant neighborhoods.

      Street performances, fashion stores, cafés, art spaces, and music venues can be found throughout the area. During weekends, the streets become especially lively as musicians and performers gather near the main shopping streets.

      While many visitors stay on the main roads, it is worth exploring the smaller alleys as well. Hidden between the larger buildings are vintage stores, independent brands, bookstores, and creative spaces that reflect Hongdae’s artistic identity.

      This is the perfect place to simply wander and enjoy the atmosphere without a fixed schedule.

      Late Afternoon: Discover Mangwon Market

      A short walk from Hongdae brings you to Mangwon Market, one of the most beloved traditional markets in western Seoul.

      Compared to larger tourist markets, Mangwon feels more local and relaxed. Residents regularly shop here for groceries, snacks, and freshly prepared food.

      Walking through the market is a great way to experience everyday life in Seoul while sampling a variety of Korean street foods.

      The market offers an authentic atmosphere without feeling overwhelming, making it particularly enjoyable for international visitors.

      Evening: Sunset by the Han River

      End your day at Mangwon Hangang Park.

      The Han River is one of the most important public spaces in Seoul. Locals come here to exercise, meet friends, ride bicycles, enjoy picnics, or simply relax after work.

      As the sun begins to set, the atmosphere becomes especially beautiful. The city skyline reflects on the water while people gather along the riverbanks to enjoy the evening.

      If you are looking for a peaceful moment during your trip, this may become one of your favorite memories of Seoul.

      🍜 Recommended Restaurants Near Hongdae and Hapjeong

      • Okdongsik (옥동식) – Famous for its Korean-style pork soup.
      • Oreno Ramen (오레노라멘) – One of Seoul’s most popular ramen restaurants.
      • Mibbedong (미쁘동) – Known for seafood rice bowls and fresh ingredients.
      • Kaden Udon (카덴) – Handmade udon noodles with a loyal local following.
      • Geumdwaeji Sikdang (금돼지식당) – A well-known destination for Korean barbecue.

      📍 Places Worth Visiting

      • Hongdae Street – Shopping, performances, and nightlife.
      • Yeonnam-dong Café Street – Independent cafés and creative shops.
      • Gyeongui Line Forest Park – One of Seoul’s most pleasant walking routes.
      • Mangwon Market – A traditional market loved by locals.
      • Mangwon Hangang Park – Beautiful river views and picnic spots.

      💡 Travel Tips

      Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. The route is best enjoyed on foot, and many of the most interesting places are discovered while exploring side streets and neighborhoods.

      Weekday mornings are usually quieter, while weekends offer a more energetic atmosphere with street performances and larger crowds.

      Opening hours and waiting times may vary by restaurant, so checking current information before visiting is always recommended.

      ✨ Final Thoughts

      The beauty of Hongdae, Hapjeong, and Yeonnam is not found in a single attraction. Instead, it comes from the way these neighborhoods naturally connect with one another.

      Within a single day, you can move from peaceful residential streets to lively shopping districts, from local markets to riverside parks, and from hidden cafés to memorable restaurants.

      For travelers who want to experience a more local side of Seoul, few areas offer a better introduction to the city.

    • Hakuten Ramen in Hongdae: Authentic Iekei Ramen with Garlic Rice and Waiting Tips

      Hakuten Ramen in Hongdae: Authentic Iekei Ramen with Garlic Rice and Waiting Tips

      Experience Rich Iekei Ramen in Hongdae’s Hakuten (하쿠텐)

      place 2663 reference
      Image source: Google Places (https://maps.google.com/maps/contrib/106896385818554429274)

      If you are searching for a hearty bowl of Iekei ramen in Seoul, Hakuten Ramen (하쿠텐라멘) in Hongdae’s Yeonnam-dong area offers a deep, flavorful experience that many visitors describe as addictive despite its strong saltiness. Known for its thick, soy sauce and pork-based broth, Hakuten serves two main ramen options: the classic Iekei ramen and a spicy version. Both come with toppings like chashu pork, spinach, and seaweed, with options to add egg, noodles, or extra toppings.

      Many local sources and recent reviews highlight the ramen’s rich, oily broth that balances a bold, salty flavor with umami depth. Because the salt level is high even when ordered “light” (싱겁게), first-timers are advised to choose the lighter seasoning to better enjoy the complex broth. The noodles are thick and chewy, complementing the broth well, and the spinach topping is commonly noted for helping to moderate the saltiness.

      Besides the ramen, Hakuten is well-known for its self-service bar offering free rice, kimchi, pickles, garlic pickles, mayonnaise, and fresh ginger. The garlic rice, made by mixing rice with garlic pickles and mayo, is especially popular and often mentioned as a memorable part of the meal. Diners enjoy combining the rice with the rich broth for a satisfying finish.

      Dining Atmosphere and Service

      Located in a semi-basement (반지하) along a narrow alley in Yeonnam-dong, the restaurant has a compact but clean interior with a Japanese ramen shop vibe. Seating mainly consists of a U-shaped bar facing the open kitchen, allowing guests to watch the ramen preparation. There is also a single four-person table. The space is cozy but not cramped, and staff are frequently described as friendly and helpful.

      Due to its popularity, waiting is essential. Hakuten supports both on-site and remote waiting through the Catch Table app, which opens for reservations at 11:30 AM and 5:00 PM daily. Many visitors recommend reserving via the app to avoid long waits, which can extend over an hour or more, especially on weekends. The dining time is limited to 40 minutes to accommodate turnover.

      Menu Highlights

      • Iekei Ramen (이에케라멘): Soy sauce and pork broth with thick noodles, chashu, spinach, and seaweed.
      • Spicy Iekei Ramen (매운 이에케라멘): Similar to the classic but with added heat; some find it overwhelms the broth’s flavor.
      • Optional toppings: egg, chashu, spinach, noodles.
      • Side dishes and drinks available, though karaage (fried chicken) is temporarily unavailable.

      Location & How to Access

      Hakuten Ramen is located at 266-12 Donggyo-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, in a semi-basement near Hongdae. It is about a 10-15 minute walk from Hongdae Station Exit 3. The entrance is modest, so look carefully for the sign and the stairway down.

      Parking is not available on-site; nearby public parking lots such as Dongjin Parking Lot (10 minutes for about 700 KRW) are recommended. Given the limited parking and heavy foot traffic, public transportation is preferred.

      Operating hours are 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM daily, with a break from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Last orders are at 8:30 PM. The restaurant enforces a 40-minute dining limit.

      Recent Local References (as of May 2026)

      • Reviews consistently praise the ramen’s thick, savory broth and the addictive garlic rice from the self-service bar.
      • Many mention the saltiness and recommend ordering with reduced salt and adding spinach to balance flavors.
      • Waiting times are long but manageable with the Catch Table app, which is highly recommended for reservations.
      • The atmosphere is authentic with a Japanese ramen shop feel, and the staff are noted for their friendliness.

      Note: Details such as menu options, waiting times, and operating hours may change. Please check the latest information before your visit.

    • Oretachi Curry in Hongdae: Authentic Osaka-Style Japanese Curry Experience

      Oretachi Curry in Hongdae: Authentic Osaka-Style Japanese Curry Experience

      Experience Authentic Osaka-Style Japanese Curry in Hongdae

      If you’re craving rich and thick Japanese curry in Seoul, Oretachi Curry (오레타치 카레) in Hongdae offers a taste of Osaka’s famous Namba curry. This Japanese curry specialty restaurant is known for faithfully recreating the flavors and atmosphere of its Osaka original.

      Many visitors mention the deep, savory curry sauce that is neither too spicy nor sour, with a smooth, thick texture that clings well to the rice. The pork stew curry (부타니코미 카레) is often highlighted for its tender, slow-cooked pork that melts in your mouth, while the handmade tonkatsu curry and shrimp fry curry are praised for their crispy coatings and fresh ingredients. Egg toppings like soft-boiled eggs (수란) add a creamy balance to the dish.

      The restaurant also offers other menu items such as curry udon, beef shabu curry, and eggplant curry, with optional toppings like green onions, cheese, and sausages. Customers appreciate the option to adjust spiciness with shichimi seasoning and enjoy the refreshing pickled vegetables called fukujinzuke served alongside.

      Ambiance and Dining Experience

      Oretachi Curry’s interior is described as cozy and reminiscent of a Japanese curry shop, complete with Japanese music and staff who speak Japanese, enhancing the authentic vibe. The space is compact but thoughtfully arranged with bar-style seating suitable for solo diners and tables for groups up to four. The self-service kiosk ordering system makes the process efficient and convenient, especially for those dining alone.

      Reviews note that the restaurant can get busy during lunch hours and weekends, but the turnover is quick. A happy hour discount on tonkatsu curry is available on weekdays from 3 to 5 pm, and customers who post reviews on social media can receive free toppings like egg or shrimp fry.

      Recent Local References (as of May 2026)

      • Google reviews consistently give Oretachi Curry a high rating (4.9/5) with over 1,200 reviews praising the authentic Japanese atmosphere and flavorful curry dishes.
      • Bloggers highlight the restaurant as a great spot for solo diners in Hongdae, noting the comfortable bar seating and the rich, non-sour curry that stands out from typical Korean curry.
      • Many mention the soft, tender pork in the pork stew curry and the fresh, crispy shrimp fry as memorable menu items.
      • Visitors appreciate the convenience of ordering via kiosk and the multilingual support including Japanese, English, and Chinese.

      Location & How to Access

      Oretachi Curry is located in Hongdae, Mapo-gu, Seoul at 83 Hongik-ro 6-gil, 1st floor. It is just a 2 to 5-minute walk from Hongik University Station (홍대입구역) Exit 4, near AK Plaza, making it easily accessible by public transit.

      Note that parking is not available at the restaurant. It operates daily from 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM, with last orders at 8:30 PM.

      Please check the latest details and opening hours before visiting.