Gomtang
in Korea.

Hadongkwan Myeongdong Main Branch

Hadongkwan is one of Seoul's classic destinations for gomtang, a clear Korean beef soup traditionally enjoyed as a hearty but relatively simple meal. Established in 1939, the restaurant has built its reputation around a deeply savory broth made from Korean beef, bones, and various beef cuts. Unlike heavily seasoned soups, Hadongkwan's broth is deliberately restrained, allowing the natural beef flavor to remain at the center. The restaurant is also known for its distinctive ordering system, where the amount of beef in the bowl can be increased through options such as regular, 25 Gong, and 30 Gong. The Myeongdong location is particularly suitable for travelers who want to experience an old Seoul institution rather than a modern Korean restaurant. The menu is extremely focused, so ordering is simple: gomtang is the main choice, while suyuk is available for sharing. It is also an unusually good breakfast option for visitors, opening at 7:00 AM and closing at 4:00 PM. This is a restaurant to visit for the food itself and the long history behind it, rather than for atmosphere, elaborate presentation, or a leisurely dining experience.