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From legacies like Jinju Hoegwan to innovative newcomers like Milbat Jeongwon, kongguksu restaurants in Seoul have something for everyone.
When the summer heat in Seoul hits its peak, locals turn to one of Korea’s most iconic seasonal dishes: kongguksu or kong-guksu. Made with cold, chewy noodles in a smooth soybean-milk broth, this humble yet hearty bowl is as refreshing as it is nutritious. Traditionally enjoyed with kimchi to balance the nutty richness of the soy, kongguksu is considered the ultimate summertime comfort food, right alongside naengmyeon (cold buckwheat noodles).
The dish has deep roots in Korean culinary history. It was mentioned in the Siuijeonseo, a late 19th-century Joseon Dynasty cookbook, and gained further popularity during Korea’s “mixed-grain and flour meal promotion” era, when rice was scarce. Today, its plant-based simplicity resonates with modern diners seeking healthy, organic flavors. As acclaimed chef Kang Mingoo of Mingles puts it, “In a time of surplus, kong-guksu shines for its simplistic arrangement.”
Recently, ten food industry experts joined forces to rank the very best kongguksu restaurants in Seoul, thanks to The Chosun Ilbo. Here are the top five spots to savor this cooling classic.
Top Kongguksu Restaurants in Seoul
1. Jinju Hoegwan (Jung District – Seosomun-dong)
Established in 1962, Jinju Hoegwan is a legendary name in kong-guksu. Initially started by a restaurateur from Jinju in South Gyeongsang Province, this eatery has long been a favorite among politicians and CEOs.
- Signature: A perfectly balanced, velvety soybean broth made fresh three to four times daily using Gangwon Province soybeans.
- What makes it special: The restaurant’s custom-built U.S. soy grinder ensures consistent flavor. They also prepare 200 heads of kimchi daily, all gone by closing time.
- Texture: Medium-thick, chewy noodles pair beautifully with the smooth broth.
- Why visit: For many, this is the gold standard of kong-guksu in Seoul.
2. Majjarang (Samseong-dong, Gangnam District)
Unlike most restaurants, Majjarang opts for buckwheat noodles instead of wheat, giving its kong-guksu a refreshing twist reminiscent of naengmyeon.
- Signature: Darker buckwheat noodles topped with cucumber and tomato.
- Flavor: Slightly sweet, creamy broth with a texture similar to fresh cream. Medicinal herbs are added to reduce any beany aroma.
- History: Opened 35 years ago in Daechi-dong, it later relocated near Seolleung Station.
- Why visit: A lighter, refreshing version of kong-guksu that health-conscious diners love.
3. Jinju House (Yeouido)
Run by relatives of Jinju Hoegwan’s founder, Jinju House delivers a familiar yet slightly different take on the dish.
- Signature: A thick, hearty soybean broth and chewy noodles.
- Unique pairing: Many regulars enjoy kong-guksu with mandu (dumplings).
- Kimchi: Sweet and savory, with thick radish strips—similar to bossam kimchi.
- Why visit: A perfect lunch stop in Yeouido, where office workers line up daily for a taste.
4. Jeongseon Kong-guksu Sosojung (Seocho District)
A rising star since opening in 2013, Sosojung has built a devoted fanbase thanks to its unique ingredients and variations.
- Signature: Made with high-altitude Jeongseon soybeans (nutty, chestnut-like flavor).
- Special dishes: Classic kongguksu and black sesame kong-guksu.
- Backstory: Owner Park Hyun-jin, daughter of a Pyongyang-born restaurateur, carries on her family’s culinary legacy.
- Why visit: For those seeking a fresh take on tradition with bold soybean character.
5. Milbat Jeongwon (Garden)
Opened in 2020 by the tofu-specialist restaurant Hwanggeum Kongbat, Milbat Jeongwon has quickly gained recognition as a modern kongguksu contender.
- Signature: Creamy soybean broth made with Yeongju’s Buseoktae soybeans.
- Technique: Removes okara (soy pulp) for a silky, balanced flavor.
- Why visit: A younger player in the kong-guksu scene, already rivaling Seoul’s long-established spots.
Final Thoughts
From legacy institutions like Jinju Hoegwan to innovative newcomers like Milbat Jeongwon, Seoul’s kongguksu landscape offers something for everyone. Each restaurant balances soy, noodles, and kimchi differently, yet all share the same mission: to provide the ultimate cooling comfort for hot Korean summers.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Seoul explorer, make sure to add at least one of these top kongguksu spots to your culinary itinerary.
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