Korean restaurant near Sangwangsimni Station: kkotdoritang and sujebi

When you crave something spicy on a rainy day in Wangsimni

On an ordinary weekday lunch, my wife and I wanted a proper, filling Korean meal, so we went to Hanyang Saram Moeuneungot (한양 사람 모이는 곳) in Wangsimni.

It's gloomy and raining out... isn't there something spicy to eat?

That was the thought that led me to today's restaurant.

These days it's not so easy to find a truly good meal out, and I was really satisfied here, so I wanted to introduce it.

Where is Hanyang Saram Moeuneungot, and what about parking?

Hanyang Saram Moeuneungot sits right about halfway between Wangsimni Station and Sangwangsimni Station. It's close enough to walk, but we drove.

The restaurant has no parking of its own. While figuring it out, I used the 'Modu-ui Jucha-jang' (Everyone's Parking) app to find the cheapest paid lot nearby and paid through it. It was about ₩6,000 for 2 hours, so parking and then heading to eat was no burden. If you're visiting, I'd recommend using the app.

A lively atmosphere even at a late lunch

Even though we came well past lunchtime, customers kept streaming in. You could really feel the buzz of a new place that's been spreading by word of mouth lately.

The interior mixes traditional props with modern paintings, so it feels stylish and comfortable, without the rustic heaviness typical of Korean restaurants.

I thought it would suit a date or a group gathering too. The owner greeted us so kindly from the moment we opened the door, and kept looking after us throughout the meal. That warmth made it a place I'll remember for longer.

What two people ordered

The menu is well stocked, from the signature gopdoritang (stew with beef intestines and chicken) to kkotdoritang (crab and chicken stew). We ordered a small kkotdoritang with 1 bowl of rice, plus seafood pajeon (seafood scallion pancake) on the side.

We also added udon and sujebi (hand-pulled dough flakes) noodles, and picked sikhye (sweet rice drink) and a 'Vanilla Dalgona' for dessert, all in one go. After a short wait, the main dish, kkotdoritang, arrived along with the side dishes. It comes already boiled once in the kitchen, so you just simmer it a bit more at the table until the vegetables wilt, and it's ready.

How big and how spicy was the small kkotdoritang?

We ordered the small size for two, yet the pot came filled to the point of overflowing. My wife and I were both stunned by the generous portion. Plenty of crab and chicken went in, so the broth was refreshing and deep.

The spice level was moderate, about like Shin Ramyun. The seasoning was pleasantly spicy and hearty, clean without any muddiness, and it ended crisply. A perfect 'rice thief' (a dish that makes you want more rice). I'd ordered white rice just to taste the broth on its own, and soaking it in the broth and topping it with meat and kimchi was pure bliss.

Adding udon and sujebi noodles

After scooping out much of the solid ingredients, we added the udon and sujebi. The chewy noodles soaked up the rich, savory seasoning, and even though we were full, we couldn't stop slurping them. Every single item was delicious.

Seafood pajeon dipped in the kkotdoritang broth

The seafood pajeon that came with it was golden and crispy, a great-looking dish. Packed with fresh seafood, it was a textbook case of crispy outside, moist inside.

Dunking the pajeon in the spicy kkotdoritang broth was a better match than I'd imagined. The oily nuttiness and the heat worked together so I never got tired of it, and I think it's the best combo to enjoy right down to the last piece.

Dessert: homemade sikhye and Vanilla Dalgona

After the meal came the dessert we'd ordered ahead. We had the cool homemade sikhye, where you can feel the owner's care, and then the sweet Vanilla Dalgona.

They soothed our fiery mouths softly and cleanly, and the two of us finished a full, hearty meal from main to dessert. Even the dessert was perfect, which put me in a great mood.

Thoughtfulness all the way to the exit

On the way out, I noticed the restaurant keeps mouthwash and fabric deodorizer on one side. The owner's careful thoughtfulness for customers stood out right to the end.

Food, atmosphere and kindness were all spot on, so I think we'll be back soon. If you're looking for a hearty Korean place near Wangsimni, do stop by.

Hanyang Saram Moeuneungot was considerate right up to the moment we walked out the door.