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Best Korean Restaurants in South Korea

Best Korean Restaurants in South Korea

Curated guide featuring 8 outstanding restaurants, all rated 4.5+ stars

Home › Where to Eat › Best Korean Restaurants in South Korea

South Korea isn't just the birthplace of Korean cuisine – it's where every dish reaches its absolute peak. Here, kimchi ferments in generations-old earthenware crocks, bulgogi sizzles over charcoal that's been burning since dawn, and every grandmother's secret recipe somehow made it into at least one restaurant kitchen. The difference between Korean food elsewhere and Korean food in Korea is like comparing a photograph to stepping into the actual scene. From late-night galbi sessions in smoky Hongdae basements to elegant temple food presentations in traditional hanok settings, this is where authenticity isn't a marketing term – it's just Tuesday dinner.

This guide brings together 10 of South Korea's most exceptional Korean restaurants, each earning stellar ratings from thousands of diners who know their bibimbap from their bulgogi. You'll discover everything from legendary all-you-can-eat BBQ joints that have perfected the art of endless banchan to intimate family-run establishments where recipes haven't changed in decades. Whether you're craving the theatrical sizzle of tabletop grilling or the quiet perfection of a perfectly balanced soup, these restaurants represent the very best of what Korean dining culture has to offer.

Featured Restaurants

Hongdae Korean BBQ All You Can Eat Pig Company
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Hongdae Korean BBQ All You Can Eat Pig Company

★★★★☆
4.9
(3,984 reviews)

This wildly popular Korean BBQ spot in trendy Hongdae delivers exceptional all-you-can-eat pork at budget-friendly prices, drawing massive crowds with its authentic grilling experience and lively atmosphere. With nearly 4,000 glowing reviews and a stellar 4.9-star rating, travelers consistently rave about the quality, value, and fun communal dining vibe. Arrive early or be prepared to wait, as this local favorite fills up quickly with both students and tourists seeking the ultimate Korean BBQ experience.

28 Hongik-ro 5an-gil, 서교동 Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Myeongdong Mongvely
$$

Myeongdong Mongvely

★★★★☆
4.8
(2,494 reviews)

This highly-rated gem in the heart of Myeongdong offers an impressive variety of cuisines in a welcoming atmosphere that has earned it nearly 2,500 glowing reviews from satisfied diners. Located on the third floor, travelers consistently rave about both the quality and diversity of options, making it a reliable choice whether you're craving local flavors or international comfort food. Arrive early during peak tourist season to secure a table at this popular spot that locals and visitors alike can't stop talking about.

South Korea, Seoul, Jung District, Myeongdong 8na-gil, 9 3층
bogwangjung
$$

bogwangjung

★★★★☆
4.9
(2,225 reviews)

This beloved Seoul gem in Yongsan District has earned an impressive 4.9-star rating from over 2,000 diners, making it a standout choice for travelers seeking authentic local flavors across various cuisines. The consistently exceptional reviews suggest a restaurant that delivers both outstanding food quality and memorable dining experiences in a welcoming atmosphere. Book ahead or arrive early, as places with this level of local acclaim tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak dining hours.

1 floor, 118 Bogwang-ro, Yongsan District, Seoul, South Korea
Wolhwa Sikdang
$$

Wolhwa Sikdang

★★★★☆
4.8
(1,130 reviews)

Wolhwa Sikdang has earned a stellar reputation among locals and travelers alike, with nearly 1,200 glowing reviews praising its authentic Korean flavors and welcoming atmosphere in Seoul's busy Mapo district. The restaurant's impressive 4.8-star rating speaks to consistently excellent food and service that keeps diners coming back for more. Given its popularity, arrive early or be prepared for a wait, especially during peak dinner hours when this beloved neighborhood gem fills up quickly.

２９ Dohwa-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Hangong-Gan
$$

Hangong-Gan

★★★★★
5.0
(943 reviews)

This beloved neighborhood gem in trendy Yeonnam-dong has earned an impressive 5-star rating from nearly 1,000 diners, making it a standout destination for food lovers exploring Seoul's busy dining scene. The restaurant's diverse menu and consistently exceptional quality have created a loyal following among both locals and travelers seeking an authentic Korean dining experience. Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds, as this popular spot can fill up quickly thanks to its stellar reputation.

South Korea, Seoul, Mapo-gu, 연남동 561-4
CHAEUM KOREAN TRADITIONAL RESTAURANT
$$

CHAEUM KOREAN TRADITIONAL RESTAURANT

★★★★☆
4.9
(729 reviews)

Tucked away in Jung District's basement level, Chaeum Korean Traditional Restaurant delivers an authentic taste of Korea that has earned rave reviews from nearly 730 diners who consistently praise its genuine flavors and welcoming atmosphere. The impressive 4.9-star rating speaks to the restaurant's commitment to traditional Korean cooking techniques and consistently satisfying meals that keep both locals and travelers returning. For the best experience, arrive early during peak dining hours as this hidden gem's stellar reputation means it can get quite busy, especially on weekends.

South Korea, Seoul, Jung District, Toegye-ro 18-gil, 7 지하 2층
Apgujeong Restaurant The Giwa Korean Dining
$$

Apgujeong Restaurant The Giwa Korean Dining

★★★★☆
4.9
(359 reviews)

Tucked away in trendy Gangnam, Apgujeong Restaurant The Giwa Korean Dining offers an authentic Korean dining experience that has earned rave reviews from locals and visitors alike. With an impressive 4.9-star rating from hundreds of diners, this intimate spot clearly delivers on both food quality and atmosphere, making it a standout choice in Seoul's competitive dining scene. Book ahead or arrive early, as popular neighborhood gems like this tend to fill up quickly, especially during dinner hours.

South Korea, Seoul, Gangnam District, Seolleung-ro 155-gil, 15 1층
Seouljip
$$

Seouljip

★★★★☆
4.8
(347 reviews)

Tucked away on the second floor of a Jung District building, Seouljip has earned a devoted following with its exceptional 4.8-star rating from nearly 350 diners who consistently praise the authentic flavors and welcoming atmosphere. This gem offers travelers a genuine taste of Seoul's diverse culinary scene without the tourist markup, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors seeking quality at reasonable prices. Arrive early during peak meal times as word has spread about this hidden treasure, and don't hesitate to ask the friendly staff for their daily recommendations.

South Korea, Seoul, Jung District, Eulji-ro 44-gil, 6 2층

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