The City That Never Sleeps? Navigating Seongsu-dong at Night
Seoul often feels like a city where the sun never sets. In the bustling city center, you can spend the entire night out, losing track of whether it’s dawn or broad daylight, simply because there are so many places to go and eat at any hour.
However, Seongsu–dong has a slightly different vibe. While it’s incredibly crowded during the day, many spots start closing their doors after 10:00 or 11:00 PM. This is likely because the area is primarily focused on shopping, trendy cafes, and lunch or dinner spots. Because of this, when you’re out for drinks in Seongsu, finding a place for a “second or third round” can be much trickier than in Myeongdong or Gangnam.
When you’re not ready to say goodbye after the first round and find yourself wondering where to go next, there’s one specific spot you need to head toward. There are two famous restaurants right next to each other that stay open 24 hours: Seongsu Gamjatang and Neungdong Minari. ;)
A Local Legend: Seongsu Gamjatang
First up is the legendary Seongsu Gamjatang, famous for its deep, savory red broth. As a true landmark of Seongsu-dong, this restaurant has been firmly rooted here since long before the area became a “hotspot.” It has earned its reputation strictly through its authentic taste, winning the hearts of locals for decades.
It gained even more nationwide fame after being “picked” by Baek Jong-won, Korea’s most renowned celebrity chef and businessman. No matter when you visit—morning, lunch, or the middle of the night—the place is always buzzing with an energetic, lively atmosphere.
Because of its immense popularity, there used to be an incredible wait time whenever you visited. However, as of 2026, Seongsu Gamjatang has expanded its space to include the first and second floors of the neighboring building! Nowadays, the wait isn’t as daunting as it used to be. (Trust me, I was one of those people who stood in line through the sweltering summer heat and freezing winter cold just for a bowl!)
The Magic of the Red Broth: What to Expect
The star of the show is, of course, the Gamjatang (Pork Back Bone Stew). Imagine a deep, simmering red broth infused with perilla seeds, garlic, and Korean spices that create a rich, savory depth without being overly spicy.
Inside the pot, you’ll find massive chunks of pork backbones. The meat is cooked so perfectly that it literally falls off the bone with just a gentle touch of your chopsticks. It’s tender, juicy, and has soaked up all the goodness of the broth.
The Secret Weapon: Hand-Pulled Dough (Sujebi)
Once you’ve finished the meat and potatoes, there is one thing you absolutely must order: Sujebi (Hand-pulled dough).
In many restaurants, they use pre-packaged, factory-made dough flakes, which can be a bit tough. But at Seongsu Gamjatang, they do it the traditional way! They bring out fresh, raw flour dough and hand-pull each piece right into your boiling broth. The chewiness is on a completely different level—soft, elastic, and so satisfying. It’s a texture you simply cannot find with store-bought versions. I highly recommend adding this to your pot!
The Final Step: The “Korean Dessert” (Fried Rice)
And finally, no matter how full you are, you have to leave room for the “Korean Dessert.” In Korea, we don’t finish a meal like this with cake—we finish it with Bokkeumbap (Fried Rice)!
The staff will take the remaining concentrated, flavor-packed broth and sauté it with rice, savory seaweed flakes, and fragrant perilla leaves right in the pot. It absorbs all the essence of the stew, creating a smoky, savory, and crispy treat. It’s the ultimate way to wrap up your meal and say, “I really ate well today!”
30 Steps to Heaven: The Clear Comfort of Neungdong Minari
Just about 30 steps away from the fiery Seongsu Gamjatang, you’ll find another 24-hour gem with a completely different personality: Neungdong Minari.
While both places serve hot broth and stay open all night, their vibes are total opposites. If the bold, spicy Gamjatang makes you crave a cold glass of Somaek (beer and soju mix), Neungdong Minari offers a clean, refreshing broth that is perfect for breakfast after a long night out. Or, as we like to say, it’s the kind of soup that “cures your hangover while you’re still drinking!” Haha. ;)
In Korea, we take “hangover meals” very seriously. There is nothing quite like the feeling of a hot, soothing broth settling your stomach after an adventurous night. It’s a vital part of the local dining experience that you simply cannot miss!
The Herb of Life: Minari Beef Pot & Tartare
While their Gomtang (bone soup) is a legendary hangover cure, when I visit for a night out with friends, I always go for the Minari Su-yuk Jeongol (Boiled Beef Pot with Korean Water Parsley and Yukhoe (Beef Tartare).
The key to this place is the massive amount of Minari (Korean Water Parsley) they pile onto every dish. Have any of you seen the Oscar-winning movie <Minari>? Yes, it’s that exact same plant!
Minari is a fragrant herb known for its incredible vitality. In Korea, we believe it helps “purify the blood,” so eating it feels like you’re doing something great for your health even while indulging. Hahaha! If you’re unfamiliar with it, think of it as a fresh, aromatic herb with a unique, earthy scent and a crisp texture.
In 2025, this spot was even selected for the Michelin Guide, proving that its flavors are loved not just by Koreans but by global palates too. Plus, it’s currently spring! Spring is the peak season for Minari, making it the perfect time to taste this spring seasonal food at its best.
Which One is Your Pick? Red or White?
So, after hearing about both, which one captures your heart? Are you leaning toward the bold, spicy, and deep red broth of Seongsu Gamjatang? Or does the fragrant, clear, and refreshing herb-infused broth of Neungdong Minari sound more like your style? ;)
Whichever you choose, both are incredibly popular spots with legendary wait times, so I can guarantee you won’t be disappointed by the taste! However, to save you from the struggle I’ve been through (standing under the scorching summer sun or shivering in the freezing winter wind) I highly recommend a strategic approach.
Since both restaurants are open 24 hours, try to aim for the “golden hours”: either early in the morning (before 11:00 AM) or late at night (after 11:00 PM). Your stomach (and your feet!) will thank you.
I’ll be back soon with more delicious stories from the streets of Seoul!
With love from Seoul, MJay
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