Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

Top 10

Destinations Worldwide

Must Visit

Guide to

Eat, Stay & Do

Rio de Janeiro

in Sweden

The Most Unique Spas

EAT & STAY

Summer in Europe

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

New Launch: August 2025

Zimbabwe

Mpala Jena Private Villas

for Your Next Long Haul Flight

Beauty Hacks

Luxury Travel on a Budget

How To:

for a Stress-Free Trip

Top 10 Travel Hacks

with 30% discount

Get Lounge Access

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Stockholm

Dog Friendly Dining

Explore

Koh Samui

A Tropical Getaway

Best Smoothie Bowls

Travel Guide

Koh Kood

Island Escape

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Seoul

Bongsanok is renowned for its authentic Hwanghae-do-style mandu (dumpling) soup, offering a rich, savory broth with handmade dumplings filled with napa cabbage, bean sprouts, tofu, beef, and pork. The restaurant also serves kimchi mari guksu (cold noodles in chilled kimchi soup) and kimchi and bean sprout soup. Customers appreciate the genuine taste reminiscent of traditional Korean cuisine.

Discover Bongsanok Seocho-dong: Seoul's Dumpling Delight Spot 

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Seocho District, Seoul, 

 invites food lovers to savor traditional Korean flavors through its renowned manduguk—a comforting dumpling soup that boasts a rich, savory broth and handmade dumplings bursting with fresh napa cabbage, tofu, bean sprouts, beef, and pork.

Authentic flavors with a home-cooked touch

At Bongsanok, every bowl tells a story of traditional Hwanghae-do-style cuisine. The dumplings are handmade daily, ensuring a freshness that diners can savor with every bite. Beyond manduguk, the menu features kimchi mari guksu—refreshingly cold noodles bathed in chilled kimchi soup—and a comforting kimchi and bean sprout soup that captures the essence of Korean home cooking.

Expect a cozy, bustling setting typical of a local alley restaurant in Seoul. The space is intimate, making it a great spot for groups who appreciate authentic food rather than an extravagant atmosphere. While the staff may sometimes appear less polished, their focus remains on delivering genuine flavors. Tip: come prepared for potential waiting times, especially during peak hours.

 as these dishes highlight the restaurant’s strengths.

 since the intimate space can get crowded, especially during meal times.

Note that the restaurant accepts credit cards

 and is wheelchair accessible throughout.

Frequently asked questions about Bongsanok

What are the operating hours of Bongsanok?

 Bongsanok operates Monday to Friday from 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM and 5:00 PM to 9:20 PM; Saturday from 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM; closed on Sundays.

 Yes, Bongsanok is wheelchair accessible, including seating, entrance, restroom, and parking lot.

Asia

South Korea

Nestled in the heart of Seocho District, Bongsanok Seocho-dong is a culinary gem that beckons food lovers with its authentic Korean flavors. This cozy restaurant, located at 5-6 Banpo-daero 8-gil, is renowned for its signature manduguk, a delightful dumpling soup that warms the soul. As you step inside, the aroma of simmering broth and freshly made dumplings envelops you, promising a comforting dining experience. The vibrant atmosphere is accentuated by the chatter of satisfied diners, creating a lively yet intimate setting.

At Bongsanok, the star of the menu is undoubtedly the manduguk. Each bowl is filled with a rich, savory broth that perfectly complements the delicate dumplings, which are filled with a blend of fresh vegetables and tender meat. Diners rave about the freshness of the ingredients, making every bite a delightful experience. Another must-try is the squid sundae, a unique twist on traditional Korean dishes. While opinions vary, many find the combination of flavors intriguing and worth a taste.

What sets Bongsanok apart is not just its food, but also its rich history. This establishment has been a beloved spot for locals for years, often bustling with patrons eager to savor its authentic offerings. The restaurant's commitment to quality and tradition is evident in every dish, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuine taste of Korean cuisine.

Bongsanok is celebrated for its manduguk, a traditional dumpling soup that showcases the freshness of its ingredients.

This restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and authentic Korean flavors, making it a perfect stop for food enthusiasts.

Bongsanok is conveniently located near various attractions in Seocho District, making it easy to explore the area after your meal.

Whether you're a local or a traveler, Bongsanok Seocho-dong invites you to indulge in a bowl of their famous manduguk. Experience the warmth of Korean hospitality and the rich flavors that have made this restaurant a beloved spot in Seoul. Don't miss out on the chance to savor authentic Korean cuisine—visit us today!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNudmNUNExREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJBbvAORGhfDURPdc6R5OzGJ8/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNudmNUNExREAE

One of my favorite places. This is a decent manduguk (dumpling soup) restaurant. The soup is mild and savory, and the dumplings are amazing — you can really taste the freshness with each bite. The staff isn’t very well-trained, and it can get quite crowded. Recently, I tried the squid sundae, and it was really disappointing. I recommend sticking to the manduguk and noodles.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNiLXNIc0ZREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJBbvAORGhfDURPdc6R5OzGJ8/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNiLXNIc0ZREAE

Decent, authentic homey foods, service not so much though given the price range.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNCajVYcGl3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJBbvAORGhfDURPdc6R5OzGJ8/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNCajVYcGl3RRAB

This was a restaurant in an alley, and there were many people waiting. However, the restaurant was small, so there was no waiting area. So I waited outside in the cold weather. I entered the restaurant and ate dumpling soup and squid sundae. The dumpling soup had a clean taste, and the squid sundae was expensive but delicious.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNDLWJXaVhnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJBbvAORGhfDURPdc6R5OzGJ8/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNDLWJXaVhnEAE

Tried it before the corona lock down and it was pouring pretty hard so there wasn’t much of a wait. Pretty good dumplings but wasn’t life changing. Pretty much what you expect Korean dumplings to taste like.. Will be back if I was around the area but won’t make a trip for it.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR4aksyQVhBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJBbvAORGhfDURPdc6R5OzGJ8/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR4aksyQVhBEAE

The dumpling soup was okay and distinctive. What I can't figure out is why this place is well known. Because of Michelin? For a dumpling soup, there are so many better options in Seoul! I should try other dishes for the next time.

Discover Authentic Dumpling Soup at Bongsanok in Seocho, Seoul

Bongsanok specializes in Hwanghae-do-style mandu (dumpling) soup, a dish deeply rooted in Korean daily life. The owner, Yoon Young-sook, learned this recipe from her mother-in-law, a native of Sariwon, North Korea. She follows the original recipe meticulously, aiming to replicate the authentic taste of her grandmother's dumplings.

Nestled in the vibrant Seocho District of Seoul, Bongsanok is a beloved restaurant that has earned its place as a culinary gem through its commitment to traditional flavors and heartfelt heritage. This establishment specializes in Hwanghae-do-style mandu, or Korean dumpling soup, a dish that holds a cherished spot in Korean daily life and family kitchens.

 is at the heart of Bongsanok’s story. The owner, Yoon Young-sook, learned the treasured mandu recipe from her mother-in-law, who hails from Sariwon in North Korea. Through meticulous attention to detail, she strives to replicate the rich, comforting flavors of her grandmother’s dumplings, preserving a culinary tradition that bridges generations and regions.

 Bongsanok was featured in the prestigious Michelin Guide, marking a significant recognition of its culinary excellence and authentic Korean dumpling soup.

 Bongsanok celebrated its 8th anniversary, a testament to its enduring popularity and the beloved place it holds among locals and visitors seeking traditional Korean comfort food.

Over the years, Bongsanok has become synonymous with quality manduguk. Diners appreciate the carefully balanced, mild and savory broth paired with freshly made dumplings bursting with flavor. Despite its modest and cozy setting in an alley of Seocho District, the restaurant draws loyal crowds, eager to savor an authentic taste that reflects true Korean culinary heritage.

 that preserves a cherished North Korean family recipe.

 crafted with care to deliver a satisfying bite with every spoonful.

 that highlights Bongsanok’s impact on Seoul’s culinary scene.

Dine In

Takeout

Restroom

Live Music

Allows Dogs

Reservable

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

A culinary gem nestled within the bustling heart of Seocho District, Bongsanok Seocho-dong beckons food enthusiasts and casual diners alike with its exquisite take on traditional and contemporary dishes. The restaurant, tucked away on Banpo-daero 8-gil, pulsates with a vibrant energy that perfectly mirrors the vibrant city outside. Stepping inside, patrons are greeted by an inviting ambiance that marries modern design with warm, earthy accents. The light pours through expansive windows, casting a gentle glow over the meticulously crafted dishes that adorn the tables. Bongsanok is renowned for its innovative menu, where age-old recipes are reimagined with fresh ingredients, tantalizing spices, and a touch of creativity. Each plate is not just a meal, but a work of art—carefully plated to please the eye as much as the palate. Signature offerings like savory bibimbap infused with seasonal vegetables and aromatic herbs make it hard to resist returning for another taste, while sumptuous grilled meats and traditional stews warm the soul. Beyond the culinary delights, the restaurant is conveniently located near some of Seoul's treasured landmarks, allowing for a perfect day of exploration before or after your visit. Whether it’s a leisurely lunch or an intimate dinner, Bongsanok Seocho-dong serves as a delightful sanctuary, drawing in both locals and travelers with the promise of unforgettable flavors and memorable experiences. For those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture through food, this spot is not to be missed, offering a delicious slice of Seoul’s vibrant gastronomic scene.

Bongsanok Seocho-dong

Authentic Hwanghae-do-style Korean dishes specializing in mandu (dumplings) and traditional soups.

Mandu Guk (Dumpling Soup)

Kimchi Mari Guksu (Cold Noodles in Chilled Kimchi Soup)

Kimchi and Bean Sprout Soup

Squid Sundae

Bongsanok Menu

Discover the heart of authentic Hwanghae-do-style Korean cuisine at Bongsanok Seocho-dong, where tradition meets flavor in every dish. This cozy eatery specializes in mandu, or Korean dumplings, served in richly crafted broths and complemented by a selection of refreshing and spicy sides. Perfect for food enthusiasts seeking genuine local tastes in Seoul.

Begin your meal with comforting and flavorful soup options that showcase the depth of Korean home cooking. The Kimchi and Bean Sprout Soup is a vibrant, mildly spicy choice blending fermented kimchi with crunchy bean sprouts and silken tofu, elevated by aromatic garlic and fresh green onions. This soup embodies warmth and balance, perfect for a cozy introduction to the menu.

Bongsanok’s star dish is the Mandu Guk, a savory dumpling soup steeped in a nourishing beef brisket broth. The handmade dumplings are bursting with fresh fillings of beef and pork, complemented by napa cabbage, bean sprouts, and tofu, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. For those craving something cool and tangy, the Kimchi Mari Guksu offers chilled noodles swimming in a spicy, refreshing kimchi soup, garnished with crisp cucumber and infused with garlic and sesame oil for a balanced bite. Adventurous diners can also try the Squid Sundae, a local delicacy that combines tender squid with translucent glass noodles and a medley of vegetables, all seasoned with traditional spices for an authentic and intriguing experience.

While Bongsanok does not serve coffee, cocktails, or wine, it offers a selection of beers to accompany your meal. The ambiance is intimate and authentic, reflecting a neighborhood favorite where locals gather for hearty meals. The restaurant welcomes dine-in guests and offers takeout for convenience. Though the space is compact and can get busy, the genuine flavors make the wait worthwhile for lovers of traditional Korean fare.

Authentic Hwanghae-do-style specialties: 

Experience regional Korean delicacies with a focus on fresh mandu and traditional soups.

From homemade dumplings to crisp cucumber and aromatic spices, every bite is thoughtfully crafted.

A small, bustling venue perfect for groups looking to enjoy true Korean home cooking.

Savor authentic Korean cuisine at Bongsanok in Seocho, Seoul. Experience rich flavors and vibrant ambiance. Book your table now!

Bongsanok: Authentic Korean Dining in Seocho, Seoul

Seocho District Municipality

Enjoy meals in a cozy, non-smoking environment.

Dine-in

Bongsanok Seocho-dong dining experience in Seoul South Korea 

Nestled in the vibrant Seocho District of Seoul, Bongsanok Seocho-dong invites food lovers to dive into a world of authentic Korean flavors with a special focus on manduguk, or dumpling soup. This cozy restaurant, located at 5-6 Banpo-daero 8-gil, is a must-visit for anyone craving a comforting and savory meal in a welcoming setting.

Authentic korean flavors with a modern touch

Bongsanok Seocho-dong stands out for its mild and savory manduguk, celebrated for fresh dumplings that burst with flavor in every bite. Guests often praise the freshness and authentic home-style taste of the dumpling soup, making it a standout dish in Seoul’s competitive dining scene. While the service leans casual and the space is intimate, the friendly atmosphere and delicious food draw crowds willing to wait for a memorable dining experience.

Convenient offerings for all dining preferences

Whether you prefer to enjoy your meal in a cozy, non-smoking dine-in environment or need a quick bite on the go, Bongsanok Seocho-dong has you covered. Their takeout option offers the same deliciousness with an added convenience factor, perfect for busy professionals and digital nomads exploring Seoul.

 Enjoy meals in a cozy, non-smoking environment.

Expect an intimate dining space where the focus is on delivering a memorable food experience rather than a lavish setting. Despite its small size and sometimes crowded atmosphere, the restaurant draws a dedicated following. Guests recommend trying the manduguk for a delicious, savory soup, and the freshly made dumplings that showcase the best of Korean culinary tradition. While some dishes like the squid sundae receive mixed reviews, the overall menu remains a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

 Accepts credit cards, making transactions easy and convenient.

 Serves beer, complementing the hearty meals perfectly.

 Perfect spot for groups and lunch or dinner gatherings with friends or colleagues.

Discover Bongsanok in Seocho District for the best Mandu Guk (dumpling soup) in Seoul! Experience authentic flavors and cozy dining. Book your spot now!

Authentic Mandu Guk Near Banpo, Seoul

Uncover the secret to the best Mandu Guk at Bongsanok! Tips for dining and must-try dishes await in Seocho District. Don't miss out, check it out!

Explore Mandu: Top Tips for Enjoying Bongsanok

Learn about Bongsanok, a celebrated dumpling restaurant in Seoul specializing in authentic Hwanghae-do-style mandu. Taste tradition today!

Bongsanok Seocho-dong Menu Overview

Starters and Soups

Signature Mains

Drinks and Dining Experience

Why Choose Bongsanok