Gukbap has been a staple on Korean tables for centuries and is considered one of Korea’s ultimate comfort foods. A hearty dish where rice is served with flavorful broth, it’s convenient and packed with nutrients, earning its place as a traditional favorite. This post explores the history, various types, regional characteristics, and the best places to try gukbap across the country.
Let’s dive into the world of traditional
gukbap!
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| Someori Gukbap [Photo Credit] Korea Tourism Organization, Lee Bum-Soo |
1. The History and Origins of Gukbap
Gukbap has its roots in the Goryeo Dynasty,
where it was first documented as a practical meal that combined rice and soup
for convenience. Typically, it involved boiling meat and bones for a long time
to create a rich broth, which was then paired with rice. As the dish evolved
through the Joseon Dynasty, regions developed unique ingredients and methods,
resulting in the diverse range of gukbap we enjoy today.
The Goryeo Dynasty (918–1392) was a Korean kingdom known for unifying the Korean Peninsula and its cultural achievements, including the creation of the Tripitaka Koreana.
The Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897) was Korea's longest-ruling dynasty, renowned for its Confucian-based governance and cultural advancements like the creation of the Korean alphabet, Hangul.
2. Regional Signature Gukbap
Seoul and the Capital Region
In Seoul and its surroundings, beef-based gukbap varieties like seolleongtang, gomtang, and doganitang have flourished. Seolleongtang is especially beloved and has become a nationwide favorite, representing the capital’s food culture.Gyeongsang Province
The Gyeongsang region is renowned for Busan dwaeji gukbap (pork gukbap) and Miryang dwaeji gukbap. In Daegu, ttarogukbap—served with the rice and broth separately—stands out for its unique presentation, often featuring beef and blood sausage (soondae). Coastal areas like Tongyeong and Geoje specialize in gul gukbap (oyster gukbap).Jeolla Province
In Jeolla Province, the spotlight is on Jeonju kongnamul gukbap (bean sprout gukbap) and Naju gomtang. Jeonju’s version is known for its refreshing, slightly spicy flavor, often paired with a cracked raw egg. Meanwhile, Naju offers a clear broth made with brisket and shank meat, highlighting the region’s culinary traditions.Jeju Island
On Jeju Island, pork-based gukbap is a staple, with the island’s famous gogi guksu (meat noodle soup) offering a delicious twist by combining noodles with the hearty flavors of gukbap.Gangwon Province
Gangwon Province features Chuncheon someori gukbap (ox head gukbap) and hwangtae gukbap (pollack gukbap) from the East Sea region. The latter uses dried pollack to create a light yet savory broth, reflecting the province’s mountainous and coastal culture.Chungcheong Province
In Chungcheong Province, Byeongcheon soondae gukbap from Cheonan is particularly well-known, offering a rich and satisfying flavor profile that locals cherish.Nationwide Favorites
Popular gukbap dishes enjoyed nationwide include soondae gukbap (blood sausage soup), yukgaejang (spicy beef soup), and gomtang (beef bone soup). Each region adds its distinct touch, resulting in subtle but delightful variations.
3. Features of Popular Gukbap Varieties
Dwaeji Gukbap (Pork Gukbap)
Dwaeji gukbap is made by simmering pork bones and meat to create a rich and hearty broth, often served with pork slices and offal. It is particularly popular in Busan and Miryang. In Busan, the broth is intensely flavorful, complemented by chives and a spicy seasoning mix. In contrast, Miryang’s version offers a clearer broth with thinly sliced pork, highlighting a different regional style. |
| Dwaeji Gukbap [Photo Credit] Korea Tourism Organization, Park Eun-Kyung |
Seolleongtang
Seolleongtang is a milky, beef bone soup made by boiling beef bones for hours. It's a favorite comfort food for all ages, served with thinly sliced beef, noodles, and rice. Unlike gomtang, which is also a beef-based soup, seolleongtang is distinguished by its creamy, opaque broth. Originating in Seoul, it has become a beloved dish across Korea.Kongnamul Gukbap (Bean Sprout Gukbap)
Kongnamul gukbap features a refreshing and spicy broth filled with bean sprouts. Known for its restorative qualities, it’s a popular hangover cure. Regional variations abound: Jeonju adds a raw egg and Jeju incorporates black pork, while the Gyeongsang and Gangwon regions favor an anchovy-based broth. |
| Kongnamul Gukbap [Photo Credit] Korea Tourism Organization, Kim Ji-Ho |
Soondae Gukbap (Blood Sausage Gukbap)
This dish combines rich broth with blood sausage and offal for a hearty and flavorful meal. Variants include the Abai soondae gukbap from Hamgyeong Province and Byeongcheon soondae gukbap from Cheonan, both known for their unique preparation methods. In Gangwon Province, ojingeo soondae (stuffed squid) is famous, though it is typically enjoyed separately rather than in gukbap. |
| Soondae Gukbap [Photo Credit] Korea Tourism Organization, Alex Bundo |
Yukgaejang
A spicy beef soup made with shredded beef, gosari (bracken), bean sprouts, and other vegetables, yukgaejang is known for its fiery flavor and invigorating qualities. It’s a top choice as a hangover soup or a warming meal in colder weather. When made with chicken instead of beef, it’s called dakgaejang.Gomtang
Gomtang is a slow-cooked beef broth made with bones, brisket, or shank. Its preparation varies by region: Seoul-style gomtang emphasizes a rich and creamy broth, while Busan uses pork bones for a distinct flavor. In Jeolla Province, Naju gomtang stands out with its light and clear broth, made with brisket and shank cuts.Gul Gukbap (Oyster Gukbap)
This wintertime specialty features oysters, often called "milk of the sea," as the main ingredient. It’s a local favorite in Tongyeong and Geoje, where you can find restaurants that specialize in this fresh and nutrient-rich dish. |
| Maesaengi Gul(Oyster) Gukbap [Photo Credit] Korea Tourism Organization, Lee Bum-Soo |
Closing: Gukbap, the Star of Korean Cuisine
Traditional gukbap is more than just a
simple, affordable dish—it encapsulates the unique culture and flavors of each
region in Korea. Whether it’s the spicy warmth of yukgaejang, the mild
richness of seolleongtang, or the hearty flavors of kongnamul gukbap,
the diversity of gukbap continues to enrich Korea’s culinary heritage.
Explore the diverse world of gukbap and
discover its charm with every bowl. Whether you’re traveling through Korea or
simply curious about its food culture, trying these different varieties will
surely leave you craving for more!
[Appendix] Gukbap Restaurant Recommendations:
[Source] Based on Naver CLOVA X, November 17, 2024
Today’s post touched briefly on the flavors
of gukbap. Instead, we’ve compiled a list of renowned gukbap restaurants across
Korea. These eateries showcase the unique characteristics of each region’s
gukbap. Experience the joy of trying a variety of gukbap styles, and savor the
warmth of a hearty bowl at a nearby restaurant.
Dwaeji Gukbap (Pork Gukbap) Restaurants
- Busan Halmae Gukbap: 3,
Jungang-daero 214beon-gil, Dong-gu, Busan
- Busan Ssangdungi Dwaeji Gukbap:
17-1, UN Pyeonghwa-ro 76beon-gil, Nam-gu, Busan
- Busan Youngjin Dwaeji Gukbap Main Branch: 14, Hashinbyeonyeong-ro 203beon-gil, Saha-gu, Busan
- Busan Sinchang Gukbap Main Branch:
10-1, Gwangbok-ro 12beon-gil, Jung-gu, Busan
- Daegu Guk-il Ttarogukbap: 6-7,
Gukchaebosang-ro 143-gil, Jung-gu, Daegu
- Daegu Beonggeulbeonggeul Sikdang:
16, Hyomok-ro 96-gil, Dong-gu, Daegu
- Daegu Jingeolmok Sikdang: 9-1,
Jingeolmok-gil, Jung-gu, Daegu
- Daegu Daedeok Sikdang: 372,
Apsansunhwan-ro, Nam-gu, Daegu
- Jeonju Waengijip: 88, Dongmun-gil,
Wansan-gu, Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do
- Jeonju Hyundaiok Main Branch: 7-4,
Hwasancheonbyeon 2-gil, Wansan-gu, Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do
- Jeonju Pungjeon Kongnamul Gukbap:
96, Junghwasan-ro, Wansan-gu, Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do
- Jeonju Sambaekjip Main Branch: 22,
Jeonjugaeksa 2-gil, Wansan-gu, Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do
- Jeju Jamae Guksu Main Branch: 46,
Hangolnam-gil, Jeju-si, Jeju-do
- Jeju Olle Guksu Main Branch: 24,
Gwiarang-gil, Jeju-si, Jeju-do
- Jeju Woojin Haejangguk: 11,
Seosa-ro, Jeju-si, Jeju-do
- Jeju Kim Hee-sun Momguk: 73,
Heungun-gil, Jeju-si, Jeju-do
Seolleongtang Restaurants
- Seoul I-mun Seolnongtang: 38-13,
Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Seoul Jongno Seolleongtang: 214-12,
Jongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Seoul Sinchon Seolleongtang: 122,
Seogang-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul
- Gwangju Gwangju-ok: 52,
Gwangju-daero, Gwangju-si, Gyeonggi-do
- Gwangju Gammi-ok: 94-7, Opo-ro,
Opo-eup, Gwangju-si, Gyeonggi-do
- Gwangju Gobau Seolleongtang: 135-3,
Gosan-ri, Opo-eup, Gwangju-si, Gyeonggi-do
- Cheongju Nam-il Haejangguk: 1677,
Cheongnam-ro, Nam-myeon, Seowon-gu, Cheongju-si, Chungcheongbuk-do
- Cheongju Cheongju Haejangguk:
654-1, Garosu-ro, Gangnae-myeon, Heungdeok-gu, Cheongju-si,
Chungcheongbuk-do
- Cheongju Daemyeong Sikdang: 6,
Namsa-ro 100beon-gil, Sangdang-gu, Cheongju-si, Chungcheongbuk-do
Kongnamul Gukbap (Bean Sprout Gukbap) Restaurants
- Jeonju Hyundaiok Main Branch: 7-4,
Hwasancheonbyeon 2-gil, Wansan-gu, Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do
- Jeonju Pungjeon Kongnamul Gukbap:
96, Junghwasan-ro, Wansan-gu, Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do
- Jeonju Sambaekjip Main Branch: 22,
Jeonjugaeksa 2-gil, Wansan-gu, Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do
- Jeju Woojin Haejang-guk: 11,
Seosa-ro, Jeju-si, Jeju-do
- Jeju Kim Hee-sun Momguk: 73,
Heungun-gil, Jeju-si, Jeju-do
- Gyeongsang-do Ilhaeok: 41-1,
Daehae-ro, Nam-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Gyeongsang-do Miryang Dwaeji Gukbap:
324, Jungang-ro, Miryang-si, Gyeongsangnam-do
- Gyeongsang-do Donsubaek (City Hall Branch): 110, Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul
Soondae Gukbap (Blood Sausage Gukbap) Restaurants
- Seoul Nongmin Baekam Soondae: 20-3,
Seolleung-ro 95-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
- Seoul Gangnam Jin Haejang: 137,
Teheran-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
- Gyeonggi Yongin Baekam Soondae: 17,
Geunchang-ro, Baekam-myeon, Cheoin-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do
- Gyeonggi Yongin Soondae Guk: 1293,
Jungbu-daero, Cheoin-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do
- Chungcheong Byeongcheon Soondae Street: 47, Aunae Soondae-gil, Byeongcheon-myeon, Dongnam-gu,
Cheonan-si, Chungcheongnam-do
- Chungcheong Chungnamjip: 1748,
Chungjeol-ro, Byeongcheon-myeon, Dongnam-gu, Cheonan-si, Chungcheongnam-do
- Chungcheong Cheonghwa Jip: 1742,
Chungjeol-ro, Byeongcheon-myeon, Dongnam-gu, Cheonan-si, Chungcheongnam-do
Yukgaejang (Spicy Beef Soup) Restaurants
- Daegu Jingeolmok Sikdang: 9-1,
Jingeolmok-gil, Jung-gu, Daegu
- Daegu Daedeok Sikdang: 372,
Apsansunhwan-ro, Nam-gu, Daegu
- Gangwon Yongbawi Sikdang: 1272,
Misiryeong-ro, Buk-myeon, Inje-gun, Gangwon-do
- Gangwon Jangmi Sikdang: 192,
Daegwallyeong-ro, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do
- Jeolla-do Hanilkwan: 10-6,
Tongjeyeong 5-gil, Yeosu-si, Jeollanam-do
- Jeolla-do Myeongwolkwan: 783,
Nokcha-ro, Boseong-eup, Boseong-gun, Jeollanam-do
Gomtang (Beef Bone Soup) Restaurants
- Seoul I-mun Seolnongtang: 38-13,
Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Seoul Jongno Seolleongtang: 214-12,
Jongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Seoul Sinchon Seolleongtang: 122,
Seogang-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul
- Gwangju Gwangju-ok: 52,
Gwangju-daero, Gwangju-si, Gyeonggi-do
- Gwangju Gammi-ok: 94-7, Opo-ro,
Opo-eup, Gwangju-si, Gyeonggi-do
- Gwangju Gobau Seolleongtang: 135-3,
Gosan-ri, Opo-eup, Gwangju-si, Gyeonggi-do
- Cheongju Nam-il Haejang-guk: 1677,
Cheongnam-ro, Nam-myeon, Seowon-gu, Cheongju-si, Chungcheongbuk-do
- Cheongju Cheongju Haejang-guk:
654-1, Garosu-ro, Gangnae-myeon, Heungdeok-gu, Cheongju-si,
Chungcheongbuk-do
- Cheongju Daemyeong Sikdang: 6,
Namsa-ro 100beon-gil, Sangdang-gu, Cheongju-si, Chungcheongbuk-do
Gul Gukbap (Oyster Gukbap) Restaurants
- Tongyeong Hyangto Jip: 37-41, Mujon
5-gil, Tongyeong-si, Gyeongsangnam-do
- Tongyeong Daepung Gwan: 29,
Haesongjeong 2-gil, Tongyeong-si, Gyeongsangnam-do
- Tongyeong Hanmaeum Sikdang: 6,
Haesongjeong 1-gil, Tongyeong-si, Gyeongsangnam-do
- Geoje Wonjo Geoje Gulgui: 3777,
Geoje Namseo-ro, Geoje-si, Gyeongsangnam-do
- Geoje Gul Hyangto Jip: 26, Geoje
Jungang-ro 5-gil, Geoje-si, Gyeongsangnam-do
- Geoje Geoje Gulgui Madang: 27,
Eupnae-ro, Geoje-myeon, Geoje-si, Gyeongsangnam-do
Notes:
The operating hours and closure days of
these restaurants may vary. It is highly recommended to confirm the details
before visiting. Enjoy a warm and delicious meal!
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