Biking all Korea - Busan to Seoul

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This plugin is intended to provide offline navigation during your journey. Please remind yourself than other than that Google Maps is useless in South Korea. The app for navigation in Korea is Naver.

Google Maps will still be useful for offline navigation. All information related to the specific locations of this guide are also available at this link.

The 4 Rivers Bike Path - Google Maps Plug In

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Airports and Ports

South Korea with its hubs of Seoul and Busan stands in between China and Japan and serves both countries with both cheap flights and ships. 

Most surprisingly, it connects with Europe with surprisingly cheap flights, as low as 225€ from Seoul to Roma one way.

The followings are the main hubs of the country and their respective advantages:

Camellia Line Ferry

@leoscarton

Connection between Hakata Port in Fukuoka, Japan and Busan. Ticket was very cheap, I paid around 5500 yen plus 1000 yen for the bike fee. Around 40€. The ship has a free public Onsen. The arrival time in Busan is around 6 pm and you will have time to cycle outside of Busan to reach a suitable camping spot. Please note that the website is not very user friendly. Further instructions will be provided once purchasing the ticket. Tickets can be found at: https://www.camellia-line.co.jp/cgi-bin/info.pl?nos=10225 

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Pan Star Cruise (Busan Port Intl Passenger Terminal)

@leoscarton

This is another suitable option that connects central Japan (Osaka) to Korea. I did not take this ship although I would probably have chosen this if I knew it before. However, I would stick with the other option if you want to cycle Japan and perhaps visit Shimanami Kaido or Yakushima (Princess Mononoke Forest). The website for this option is the following: https://www.panstarcruise.com

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Incheon International Ferry Terminal

@leoscarton

The Incheon Ferry terminal connects Korea and various Chinese ports. My personal recommendations are Dalian or Qingdao but it will greatly depend on your plans. All informations can be found on this website: http://www.icferry.or.kr/eng/content/view.do?menuKey=1091&contentKey=16

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Incheon International Airport

@leoscarton

The Airport runs a 24 hours bike packing service provided by the company Hanjin Express. The cost is around 30.000 won or 20€. All information can be found at: https://www.airport.kr/ap/en/svc/getFacilityMain.do

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Gimhae International Airport

@leoscarton

The Airport of Busan. Very close to the start of the 4 Rivers Bike Trail. Never had experienced this airport.

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The 4 Rivers Bike Path

If you're a traveler considering a cycling adventure in Asia, the 4 Rivers Bike Path is an absolute must-experience route. 

Imagine a 4 days to 7 days bike journey in a well-maintained path with almost exclusively dedicated cycling lanes. The path includes rest areas, and bike-friendly amenities, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for cyclists of all levels.

Whether you're a seasoned cyclist seeking a challenging ride or a leisure traveler looking to explore at a relaxed pace, the 4 Rivers Bike Path promises an unforgettable adventure through South Korea's landscapes and culture.

Here I am introducing the starting and end point, for the whole itinerary download the Google Map Plugin or check the red lines on Naver.

Bike Path Start / End

Nakdong River Cultural Centre

@leoscarton

The starting of the trail if beginning the route from Busan to Seoul. Personally I haven't been here since I lost my way in Busan. Busan is very hilly, not fun to bike in at all. I would consider taking a subway to here as it is possible to carry your bike in dedicated subway areas.

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Ara West Sea Lock

@leoscarton

This is the official start of the Trail. Most people start their journey from here although there is no issue in starting from Busan (I personally started in Busan). It is not even needed to reach here as it is 30km away from central Seoul.

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My Campgrounds

Please not that free camping in South Korea is a grey area, exercise it with caution in big urban areas and prefer dedicated camping areas where possible.

As the 4 Rivers Path is mostly a rural path, free camping will be extensively available. Please respect local customs and always mind of not leaving any trace.

The following list includes camping areas where I specifically stayed or pass nearby and that I can personally recommend.

수주팔봉 야영지

@leoscarton

This is the most beautiful camping spot I have encountered during the trip. Although I didn't stop here because there were too many people the area is full in nature, right in front of a waterfall and the night sky is said to be beautiful around here.

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낙동강5경(창녕합천보그린생태공원) 친수문화공원

@leoscarton

This is a park, not an official camping spot. The town is so little tho that problems are unlikely to arise as long as you do not leave any trace. There are actually many places like this along the trail (just look for big patches of green on the map and in 80% of the cases they are suitable for camping). This is where I personally stopped.

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Gumi Campground

@leoscarton

A big campground in Gumi. I had the feeling you need to pay to stay here, so I did not stop but if you do not feel like doing wild camping is a great choice.

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미산가족오토캠핑장

@leoscarton

This is the last camping spot before the biggest climb of the 4 rivers trail. Is "only" a 350m uphill but I would not recommend doing it late in the evening or during peak heat. Stay hydrated.

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금은모래캠핑장

@leoscarton

I do not have any experience in this campground as I think you have to pay to stay here. But if you are not comfortable with free camping this looked like a famous spot.

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충주 우륵대교 캠핑

@leoscarton

Comfortable camping (no fee) close to a convenience store equipped with toilet. I stayed here during the night and I would recommend it. It is not as beautiful as the other campsite that I inserted in the map a bit south tho.

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황산 캠핑장

@leoscarton

This area is 30km away from Busan Port. It is reachable the same day of your arrival although you will have to bike in the dark for a while. It is however not a big deal as you will always be on a cycling road. Remind that after this area the closest food resupply is quite far, so you better get food in the nearby city (the big green area on the map along the river before this one).

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Honeybee Garden

@leoscarton

In Seoul Forest Park, right before the Honeybee Garden, there is an area with wooden stands where you can pitch up your tent. On Naver it is classified as a Camping Spot. It is is the only area in Seoul where I haven't had troubles camping while being in the city centre. I remind you that this is only my personal experience. Be mindful of not leaving any trace.

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Tourism

When before/after your bike trip you will want to wonder around Seoul and Busan, these are the main spots you do not want to miss.

Busan

Haeundae Beach

@leoscarton

Famous for its soft sand and clear waters, Haeundae Beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying seaside cafes and bars.

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Gwangalli Beach

@leoscarton

Known for its picturesque bridge and vibrant nightlife, Gwangalli Beach offers stunning views, water sports, and evening walks along the promenade.

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Jagalchi Market

@leoscarton

Korea's largest seafood market where you can taste fresh seafood dishes and experience the bustling atmosphere of a traditional Korean market.

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Gamcheon Culture Village

@leoscarton

A colorful hillside community adorned with murals and art installations, offering art galleries, cafes, and panoramic views of the city.

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Beomeosa Temple

@leoscarton

A historic Buddhist temple surrounded by scenic mountain trails, offering cultural tours, temple stays, and serene meditation experiences.

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Diamond Tower (Busan Tower)

@leoscarton

An iconic landmark with panoramic views of the city, featuring observation decks, a museum, and a lively surrounding area with shops and restaurants.

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Taejongdae Resort Park, Busan

@leoscarton

A natural park with cliffs overlooking the sea, offering hiking trails, a lighthouse, and scenic cruises along the coastline.

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Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

@leoscarton

A unique seaside temple known for its stunning ocean views, Buddhist rituals, and cultural events throughout the year.

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Busan Museum

@leoscarton

A comprehensive museum showcasing the region's history, art, and culture through permanent and temporary exhibitions.

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Dadaepo Sunset Fountain of Dream

@leoscarton

A relaxing beach with a beautiful sunset view and the largest musical fountain in Asia, featuring nightly light and water shows.

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Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace

@leoscarton

A grand palace from the Joseon Dynasty, offering guided tours, cultural performances, and a glimpse into Korea's royal history.

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Myeongdong Street

@leoscarton

A bustling shopping district known for its trendy fashion boutiques, street food stalls, and vibrant nightlife.

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N Seoul Tower

@leoscarton

An iconic landmark offering panoramic views of Seoul, with observation decks, a love locks area, and cultural exhibits.

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Insadong Culture Street

@leoscarton

A cultural hub famous for traditional Korean art galleries, antique shops, tea houses, and street food vendors.

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Bukchon Hanok Village

@leoscarton

A historic village with well-preserved traditional Korean houses (hanoks), offering cultural workshops, museums, and scenic views of tiled rooftops.

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Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)

@leoscarton

A modern architectural marvel with exhibitions, fashion shows, shopping malls, and futuristic design elements.

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Namdaemun Market

@leoscarton

Korea's largest traditional market offering a wide variety of goods, from clothing and accessories to souvenirs and street food.

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Changdeokgung Secret Garden

@leoscarton

A UNESCO World Heritage site with guided tours of the palace complex and its tranquil garden.

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Hangang Park

@leoscarton

A series of parks along the Han River offering cycling paths, picnic spots, water sports activities, and riverside cafes.

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War Memorial of Korea

@leoscarton

A comprehensive museum honoring Korean War veterans, with exhibits of military history, weapons, and interactive displays.

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Cheonggyecheon Stream

@leoscarton

A revitalized urban waterway offering walking paths, public art installations, and seasonal events, providing a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

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Hongdae Shopping Street

@leoscarton

A youthful and artistic district known for its indie music scene, street performances, trendy cafes, quirky boutiques, and vibrant nightlife.

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National Museum of Korea

@leoscarton

The largest museum in South Korea showcasing artifacts and artworks from Korean history and culture, including special exhibitions and cultural performances.

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Leeum Museum of Art

@leoscarton

A museum combining traditional Korean art and contemporary art collections, housed in architecturally stunning buildings designed by internationally renowned architects.

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Hiking in Seoul

Bukhansan National Park

@leoscarton

A mountainous national park located north of Seoul, offering various hiking trails with stunning views of the city skyline and natural scenery.

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Achasan

@leoscarton

A popular hiking spot in eastern Seoul with trails leading to Achasan Peak, offering panoramic views of the Han River and the city skyline.

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Inwangsan Mountain Park

@leoscarton

Known for its rugged terrain and historic significance, Inwangsan offers hiking trails that lead to rocky peaks with panoramic views of downtown Seoul and Gyeongbokgung Palace.

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Along the Bike Path

Andong Hahoe Folk Village

@leoscarton

A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its traditional Korean architecture, cultural performances, and historic significance.

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Daegu

Duryu Park

@leoscarton

Duryu Park is a large recreational park in Daegu featuring scenic walking paths, sports facilities, and a beautiful lake. At the center of the park stands Duryu Tower, offering panoramic views of the city skyline from its observation deck.

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Seomun Market

@leoscarton

One of the largest traditional markets in South Korea, Seomun Market in Daegu is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse array of goods, including fresh produce, clothing, accessories, and street food. It's a great place to experience local culture and enjoy authentic Korean snacks.

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Daegu Modern History Museum

@leoscarton

Located in the heart of Daegu, this museum showcases the city's development and transformation during the modern era, featuring exhibitions on architecture, industry, culture, and daily life. It offers insights into Daegu's history and its role in shaping South Korea's industrial growth.

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Suanbo Hot Spring Land

@leoscarton

Located near Chungju, Suanbo Hot Springs is one of South Korea's oldest hot spring resorts, known for its therapeutic mineral waters. Visitors can enjoy soaking in various indoor and outdoor baths, as well as exploring the surrounding spa facilities and scenic landscapes.

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Restaurants

Seoul

Best restaurants around Seoul, straight from the Michelin Guide.

I included mostly budget options (8-12€).

니시무라멘서울(연남본점)

@leoscarton

니시무라멘서울(연남본점) is a popular ramen spot in Yeonnam-dong, known for its authentic Japanese ramen. Their signature dish is the Tonkotsu Ramen, known for its rich pork broth, tender chashu pork slices, and savory marinated egg.

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Tuk Tuk Noodle Thai

@leoscarton

Tuk Tuk Noodle Thai is a well-known Thai restaurant. Their standout dish is Pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish.

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JungHwaBokChun

@leoscarton

JungHwaBokChun is a renowned Korean restaurant. Their standout dish is Samgyeopsal.

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Tasty Cube

@leoscarton

Famous for Chinese noodles like tan tan men.

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Woo Lae Oak (Uraeok)

@leoscarton

Woo Lae Oak (우래옥) is a famous Korean barbecue restaurant known for its high-quality meats and traditional dining experience in Seoul.

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Buchon Yukhoe Main Store

@leoscarton

Buchon Yukhoe Main Store (부천육회 본점) in Seoul is famous for its traditional Korean raw beef dish, yukhoe.

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Pildong Myeonok

@leoscarton

Pildong Myeonok (필동면옥) is a well-known restaurant in Seoul, specializing in traditional Korean noodles.

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Haobin

@leoscarton

Specialized in Chinese cuisine. 

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WooYukMyeonGwan Cheonggyecheon

@leoscarton

At WooYukMyeonGwan Cheonggyecheon, one of the standout dishes is their Galbitang (갈비탕), a traditional Korean beef short rib soup known for its clear broth and tender meat.

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Imun Seolleongtang

@leoscarton

Imun Seolleongtang (이문 설렁탕) is a famous restaurant in Seoul known for its traditional Korean ox bone soup, seolleongtang. This hearty soup is simmered for hours to create a milky broth, served with tender slices of beef and garnished with green onions and salt.

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A Flower Blossom on the Rice

@leoscarton

"A Flower Blossom on the Rice" (꽃비밥) is a metaphorical expression in Korean cuisine. It refers to a visually appealing dish where various colorful ingredients, such as vegetables, seafood, or meat, are arranged artistically on top of a bowl of rice, resembling the beauty of flower petals scattered on the ground after rain. 

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Mijin

@leoscarton

Mijin (미진) is a well-known Korean restaurant in Seoul, recognized for its traditional Korean cuisine and warm atmosphere. They are particularly noted for their Galbi-jjim (갈비찜), a braised beef short rib dish, which is tender and flavorful.

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Yurimmyeon

@leoscarton

Yurimmyeon (유림면) is a well-known restaurant in Seoul, famous for its specialty noodle dishes, particularly known for their cold noodles (naengmyeon) and spicy noodles (bibimmyeon). It's a popular spot for those looking to enjoy refreshing and flavorful Korean noodles in a casual dining setting.

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BASE IS NICE

@leoscarton

"Base is Nice" (베이스 이즈 나이스) is a stylish and trendy restaurant located in Seoul. Known for its modern ambiance and innovative cuisine, it offers a variety of dishes that blend Korean flavors with international influences.

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Myeongdong Kyoja Main Restaurant

@leoscarton

Myeongdong Kyoja Main Restaurant (명동교자 본점) is a renowned establishment in Seoul, celebrated for its iconic Korean noodle dishes such as kalguksu (knife-cut noodles) and mandu (dumplings).

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Geumdwaeji Sikdang

@leoscarton

Geumdwaeji Sikdang (금돼지식당) is a popular restaurant in Seoul specializing in pork dishes, particularly grilled or roasted pork belly (samgyeopsal) and other pork cuts.

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Gwanghwamun Gukbap

@leoscarton

Gwanghwamun Gukbap (광화문 국밥) is a famous restaurant in Seoul known for its traditional Korean soup dish, gukbap. Gukbap typically consists of a flavorful broth served with rice and various toppings such as beef or pork. 

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Hwangsaengga Kalguksu

@leoscarton

Hwangsaengga Kalguksu (황생가 칼국수) is a well-known restaurant in Seoul specializing in kalguksu, a traditional Korean noodle soup made with handmade, knife-cut noodles. 

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Sarukame

@leoscarton

Sarukame (사루카메) is a popular Japanese ramen restaurant located in Seoul. Known for its authentic ramen dishes, Sarukame is celebrated for its rich broth, flavorful noodles, and traditional toppings. 

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One Degree North

@leoscarton

"One Degree North" is a contemporary dining establishment located in Seoul. Known for its innovative cuisine and stylish ambiance, it offers a diverse menu blending international flavors with creative twists.

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Jinmi Pyeongyang Naengmyeon

@leoscarton

Jinmi Pyeongyang Naengmyeon (진미 평양냉면) is a well-known restaurant in Seoul specializing in Pyongyang-style cold noodles (naengmyeon). It's highly regarded for its refreshing broth made from beef and dongchimi (radish water kimchi), along with chewy noodles and various toppings like sliced beef or pork.

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Jeongmyeon

@leoscarton

Jeongmyeon (정면) typically refers to a type of Korean noodle dish that originated in the city of Gangneung. It's known for its long, thin noodles made from wheat flour, which are often served in a chilled broth or with a spicy sauce. Jeongmyeon is a popular dish during summer for its refreshing qualities.

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Gebangsikdang

@leoscarton

Gebangsikdang (게방식당) is a famous restaurant in Seoul known for its traditional Korean seafood dishes, particularly crab dishes. It's highly regarded for its fresh seafood, including crab prepared in various styles such as steamed, grilled, or stir-fried.

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Bongmilga

@leoscarton

Bongmilga (봉밀가) is a popular Korean barbecue restaurant in Seoul. Known for its quality meat and traditional grilling experience.

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Okdongsik Seogyo

@leoscarton

Okdongsik Seogyo (옥동식 서교) is a well-known restaurant in the Seogyo-dong area of Seoul. It is famous for its traditional Korean cuisine, particularly its hearty and flavorful dishes.

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Damtaek

@leoscarton

Damtaek (담택) is a restaurant in Seoul known for its traditional Korean cuisine, particularly its focus on hanjeongsik (한정식), which is a full-course Korean meal typically served in multiple dishes. These meals often include a variety of banchan (side dishes), main courses like grilled meats or fish, and rice. 

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Jungin Myeonok

@leoscarton

Jungin Myeonok (중인면옥) is a renowned restaurant in Seoul specializing in traditional Korean noodles, particularly kalguksu (knife-cut noodles) and bibim guksu (mixed noodles). It is known for its rich broth, handmade noodles, and fresh ingredients, offering a comforting and authentic Korean dining experience.

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Hapjeongok

@leoscarton

Hapjeongok (합정옥) is a well-known Korean restaurant located in the Hapjeong area of Seoul. It specializes in traditional Korean cuisine, particularly famous for its galbi (grilled beef short ribs) and other grilled meat dishes.

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Oegojip Seolleongtang

@leoscarton

Oegojip Seolleongtang (외고집 설렁탕) is a popular restaurant in Seoul known for its specialty dish, seolleongtang, which is a traditional Korean ox bone soup. The soup is simmered for hours to create a milky white broth, served with tender beef slices and garnished with green onions and salt.

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Tim Ho Wan Samseong

@leoscarton

Tim Ho Wan Samseong (팀호완 삼성점) is a branch of the renowned Hong Kong dim sum restaurant chain located in Samseong-dong, Seoul. Tim Ho Wan is famous for its Michelin-starred dim sum offerings, including specialties like barbecue pork buns (char siu bao), shrimp dumplings (har gow), and various other dumplings and savory dishes.

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Bongsanok Seocho-dong

@leoscarton

Bongsanok (봉산옥) in Seocho-dong, Seoul, is a well-known restaurant specializing in traditional Korean cuisine, particularly famous for its galbi jjim (braised beef short ribs) and other hearty dishes.

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Busan

Best restaurants around Busan, straight from the Michelin Guide.

I included mostly budget options (8-12€).

Dim Tao, Haeundae

@leoscarton

Dim Tao is a popular dim sum restaurant located in Haeundae, Busan. Known for its authentic Hong Kong-style dim sum offerings, Dim Tao serves a variety of dumplings, buns, and other traditional Cantonese dishes.

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Hapcheon Dwaeji-gukbap

@leoscarton

Hapcheon Dwaeji-gukbap (합천 돼지국밥) is a famous dish from Hapcheon County in South Gyeongsang Province, known for its hearty pork soup with rice. The dish typically features a clear broth made with pork bones, served piping hot with tender pork meat and sometimes organ meats. It's often enjoyed with kimchi and various condiments to enhance the flavor.

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Niurou Mian Guan-zi

@leoscarton

Niurou Mian Guan-zi (牛肉面馆子) is a type of Chinese restaurant that specializes in beef noodle soup, a popular dish in Chinese cuisine. This dish typically features hand-pulled noodles in a savory broth with tender slices of beef, along with various seasonings and vegetables.

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