Exploring Ikseon-dong in Seoul, Korea: History & Culinary Delights

 

Discovering Ikseon-dong

Uncover the rich history of Ikseon-dong and explore its transformation into a neighborhood with remodeled Hanoks, diverse eateries, and unique cafes. 

Table of Contents

• History of Ikseon-dong
• Eateries and Cafes
• 01. Damsot
• 02. Changhwadang
• 03. Namdobunsik
• 04. Hoho Sikdang
• 05. Oncheonjib
• 06. Le Blanc-Sur
• 07. Pparigaok
• 08. GanPan EobNeun GaGe (A store without a sign)
• 09. Cheongsudang Cafe
• 10. Seoul Coffee Ikseon Branch
• 11. Puhahacreambread

 

History of Ikseon-dong

About a century ago, Ikseon-dong occupied the location of 'Nu-dong Palace,' the residence of Daewongun, the father of King Cheoljong (the 25th monarch of the Chosun dynasty, reigning from 1849 to 1863). During the Japanese colonial period, Jeong Se kwon, a real estate developer and nationalist activist in Seoul, acquired the land in Ikseon-dong from Daewongun's grandson.

 

During the Japanese colonial period, Japanese individuals began acquiring land in downtown Seoul. In response, Jeong Se kwon constructed Hanoks( Hanok is Korean traditional house) on the land in Ikseon-dong, spanning an area of 33,058 square meters. These newly created Hanoks were made available to the commoners of Chosun (Chosun was the old name of Korea from 1392 to 1910). During this time, the constructed Hanoks were relatively small, each covering an area of less than 49.6 square meters. Hanoks in Ikseon-dong, built during the Japanese colonial era, were mostly improved Hanoks.

 

Until the early 2000s, Ikseon-dong remained relatively unknown. During this period, the existing Hanok houses were all removed, and redevelopment took place. There were also plans to redevelop Ikseon-dong into apartment complexes. However, these redevelopment plans made little progress over a span of ten years and were eventually abandoned.

 

Starting from the mid-2010s, development companies entered the scene, renovating some Hanoks houses and converting them into accessory shops or small cafes. This period marked the influx of young entrepreneurs to the area. With the rise of social media, the Ikseon-dong vicinity began to gain recognition. Furthermore, the emergence of the retro trend from the late 2010s further boosted Ikseon-dong's popularity.

 

Exploring Ikseon-dong

Ikseon-dong is a neighborhood filled with old Hanoks. Currently, these Hanok houses have been remodeled and transformed into charming accessory shops, cafes, and delightful eateries. Unlike Bukchon Hanok Village or Seochon Hanok Village, Ikseon-dong features numerous improved Hanoks, giving off a vibe reminiscent of Seoul during the Japanese colonial era (Kyungsung during the era of enlightenment). Ikseon-dong is conveniently located near Jongno 3-ga Station (Line 1, Line 3, Line 5), with easy access from exits 4 or 6.

 

Eateries and Cafes

 

 

1. Damsot :담솥

Damsot is a Hanok-style restaurant. It specializes in sizzling rice pot dishes and is quite popular. Due to its popularity, there might be a wait. Notable menu items include the healthy "Eggplant Rice Pot" and "Steak Rice Pot." After enjoying the rice pot, you can savor the charm of eating nurlungji (crispy rice). Operating hours are from 11 AM to 10 PM, with a break from 3:30 PM, so it's recommended to check before visiting.

Menu

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Information

1) Opening Hours: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM 

2) Break Time: 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM Last Order: 9:00 PM

3) Phone number: 82-507-1355-7277 

4) Address: 1st floor, 21-3 Cheok-ro 28-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul 

 

 

2. Changhwadang : 창화당

Changhwadang is a popular eatery known for its handmade dumplings. Its sweet and slightly spicy sauce reminiscent of gochujang (red pepper paste) is a unique experience of Korean flavors. The modern heritage-inspired interior adds to its appeal. Due to its small size, there might be a longer waiting time.

Menu

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Information

1) Opening Hours: 11:30 AM - 09:00 PM

2) Break Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM  (No break time on Saturday and Sunday)

3) Last Order: 8:30 PM

4) Phone number: 82-70-8888-0908 

5) Address: 231st floor, Cheok-ro 28-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

 

 

 

3. Namdobunsik :  남도분식 

Namdobunsik offers a taste of on-the-spot tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes). In addition to tteokbokki, you can enjoy various Korean street food such as sundae (Korean blood sausage) and fried snacks. The stir-fried rice after enjoying the tteokbokki is also delicious. Expect some waiting time, as it's quite popular.

 

Menu

Photo

Information

1) Opening Hours: 11:30 AM - 09:00 PM 

2) Last Order: 8:30 PM

3) Phone number: 82-507-1490-7778 

4) Address: 33, Cheok-ro 28-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

 

 

4. Hoho Sikdang  : 호호식당

Hoho Sikdang is one of the famous eateries in Daehak-ro (University Street). It has extended its popularity to Ikseon-dong. It offers over 20 traditional Japanese home-style dishes that capture the flavors of spring, summer, autumn, and winter. With a remodeled Hanok, it provides a cozy Japanese dining experience.

During weekends, there might be significant waiting, so avoiding peak hours is advisable. While the food is delicious, some find the portions slightly small. Many people visit to enjoy the ambiance.

 

Menu

Photo

Information

1) Opening Hours: 11:00 AM - 09:50 

2) PM Break Time: 2:40 PM - 5:00 PM 

3) Last Order: 2:30 PM (Lunch) 09:00 PM(Dinner)

4) Phone number: 82-507-1315-2384 

5) Address: 170-1 Ikseon-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul

 

 

5. Oncheonjib (Oncheon means hot spring, jip means house): 온천집

Oncheonjib is a shabu-shabu restaurant. Especially known for its "Doenjang Shabu," it features a clean-tasting broth with various vegetables and meats. The generous portions and the addition of kalguksu (knife-cut noodle) make for a satisfying meal. The truffle-covered fried rice is served with a flavorful sauce.

 

Menu

Photo

Information

1) Opening Hours: 11:30 AM - 09:30 PM 

2) Break Time: 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (No break time on Saturday and Sunday)

3) Last Order: 2:00 PM (Lunch) 08:30 PM(Dinner) 

4) Phone number: 82-507-1378-8218 

5) Address: 31-8, Donhwamun-ro 11-Na-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

 

 

6. Le Blanc-Sur : 르블란서

Le Blanc-Sur is a charming French home-style restaurant in Ikseon-dong. It offers both cozy outdoor seating with a clear sky view and comfortable indoor seating with a traditional Hanok atmosphere. With a decent menu and reasonable prices, it's a popular choice. The portions are slightly small, but it's a place where you can experience both the ambiance and flavors of Ikseon-dong.

 

Menu

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Information

1) Operating Hours: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Closed on Mondays

2) Break Time: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM 

3) Last Order: 9:00 PM 

4) Phone Number: +82-507-1339-9951 

5) Address: 170-1 Ikseondong, Jongno-gu, Seoul

 

 

7. Pparigaok (Ppari is a strong Korean pronunciation of Paris) : 빠리가옥 

Pparigaok is a restaurant that combines Hanok interiors with a French-inspired atmosphere. Serving dishes prepared by the French chef-owner, it's known for its onion soup with cognac and slow-cooked beef stew, Beef Bourguignon. It's a favorite among foreigners as well. Be prepared for a wait, as it's usually crowded.

Menu

Photo

Information

1) Operating Hours: 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM

2) Break Time: 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (No break time on Saturday and Sunday)

3) Last Order: 2:00 PM (Lunch), 09:30 PM (Dinner) 

4) Phone Number: +82-507-1418-1626 

5) Address: 33-4, Cheok-ro 28-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

 

 

8. GanPan EobNeun GaGe (A store without a sign) : 간판 없는 가게

GanPan EobNeun GaGe doesn't have a sign, so you'll need to identify it based on the entrance sign. The interior and atmosphere are pleasing, and it's known for its pasta and lasagna. It's great for enjoying dishes like pasta and lasagna alongside wine in the evening. Expect a wait here as well.

Menu

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Information

1) Operating Hours: 11:30 AM - 09:30 PM 

2) Break Time: 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

3) Phone Number: +82-507-1427-1042 

4) Address: the first floor, 361 Donhwamun-ro 11-da-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

 

 

9. Cheongsudang Cafe : 청수당 카페

Cheongsudang Cafe features a garden interior with a bamboo forest, creating an impressive ambiance. It specializes in soufflé castella and hand-drip coffee. The stone pathway with flowing water makes for a picturesque spot. The subtle lighting at night adds to its charm. Popular menu items include Original Egg Soufflé Castella, Strawberry Egg Soufflé Castella, and Stone Drip Coffee.

 

Menu

Photo

Information

1) Operating Hours: 10:30 AM - 09:00 PM 

2) Last Order: 08:30 PM

3) Phone Number: +82-507-1318-8215 

4) Address: 31-9, Donhwamun-ro 11-Na-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

 

 

`10. Seoul Coffee Ikseon Branch : 서울 커피 익산 점

Seoul Coffee Ikseon Branch is a cafe filled with menus that have been reinterpreted in a Korean context. Vienna coffee, milk tea, sweet pumpkin Sikhye (rice punch), Injeolmi Tiramisu, Choco Ggwabaegi (chocolate twist bread), and others are among such offerings. Many people are attracted to these options because of their unique charm.

Menu

Photo

Information

1) Operating Hours: 11:00 AM - 10:30 PM

2) Last Order: 08:30 PM

3) Phone Number: +82-507-1404-4890 

4) Address: 1st floor, 33-3 Cheok-ro 28-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

 

 

 

11. Puhahacreambread : 푸하하크림빵

Puhahacreambread gained fame after being featured on a TV show. It's known for its antibiotic-free eggs and natural fermented starter used in the brioche-style dough. Cream-filled pastries, including Salted Cream Bread, Real Strawberry Cream Bread, Matcha Cream Bread, and Greek Yogurt Bread, are some of its offerings.

Menu

Photo

Information

1) Operating Hours:
    12:00 PM - 09:00 PM (Monday to Thursday) 

    11:30 AM ~ 09:30 PM (Saturday, Sunday)

2) Phone Number: +82-507-1347-6003 

3) Address: 34-3 Donhwamun-ro 11-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

 

 

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