Essentials
Money in Korea
Best exchange rates, ATMs & how to pay
Read guide →Japanese cuisine has deep roots in Seoul, shaped by geographic proximity and a long shared history. Seoul-style Japanese restaurants range from affordable sushi conveyor belts and ramen shops to high-end omakase counters. Quality fish is flown in daily, and Korean chefs often put their own spin on Japanese classics — thicker broths, spicier condiments, and seasonal Korean ingredients woven into traditional recipes.
Mapo-gu — home to Hongdae, Sinchon, and Hapjeong — is Seoul's youth and arts district, defined by its university population, live music venues, and creative energy. The food scene is diverse, affordable, and experimental: trendy cafés, late-night pojangmacha, global street food, and boundary-pushing restaurants all compete for attention in this perpetually buzzing neighbourhood.
Kyochon Chicken in Hongdae – Still Our Favourite on Second Visit Came back to Kyochon in Hongdae for the second time, and it’s firmly holding its spot as our go-to Korean fried chicken place. The classic original soy garlic and red spicy versions are just as good as we remembered—super juicy inside, crispy coating outside, and surprisingly not greasy at all despite being deep-fried. Flavour is perfectly balanced, portions generous, and it pairs amazingly with cold beer.
Tonight we went to Kyochon for the third time during our 7 day trip. I would like to express my thanks to one of the waitresses there on the second floor. Because I left a small shopping bag on the table and left, and this lovely waitress ran out to return my shopping a few blocks down the road. I don't know your name, but I truly appreciate your kindness in running out in the cold! Thank you again ❤️❤️ But let me emphasis, all the staffs there are very friendly and helpful.
Korean blogger posts. Links open original posts on Naver.
Soy sal sal with seasoned green onions - 3.75 stars Bit dry but I liked the sauce and green onions and it wasn't too sweet. Kkubeun tteokbokki - 3.5 stars Sauce too sweet. Soy whole chicken - 3.5 stars Original flavour, bit dry. Honey garlic - 3.5 stars Sauce on the sweet side.
