When visiting Seoul, one dish you absolutely shouldn’t miss is Seolleongtang—and among the many places that serve it, Sinseon Seolleongtang stands out as a crowd favorite! While dishes like Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup), handmade noodles, and bibimbap often come to mind first, Seolleongtang is actually one of Korea’s most iconic traditional meals.
This time, during my trip to Seoul, I was introduced to Seolleongtang by a friend—specifically to the popular Sinseon Seolleongtang chain. So in this post, I’ll introduce what Seolleongtang is all about, share details about the famous Sinseon Seolleongtang restaurant, and of course, include my own humble food review!
Switch content language：繁體中文｜日本語
What is Seolleongtang?
Back in the Joseon Dynasty, agriculture was the backbone of society. The origin of Seolleongtang is closely tied to the ancient “Royal Plowing Ceremony” (친경의식), where the king would participate in a symbolic act of farming and then dine with the farmers after the ritual held at the Seonnongdan (선농단｜Son non dan) near Dongdaemun.
The meal served at that time was a clear soup made by simmering beef bones and meat over a long period of time. This hearty broth was shared with both the king and the participating citizens. Over time, this evolved into what we now call “Seolleongtang” (설농탕｜Sor non tan), its name even said to be derived from the pronunciation of Seonnongdan.
Today, Seolleongtang is more than just a dish—it represents Korea’s agricultural heritage and symbolizes gratitude, sharing, and respect. A meal rich in both flavor and history!
Sinseon Seolleongtang
The restaurant I’m introducing here is Sinseon Seolleongtang (신선설농탕), a beloved chain that’s been serving this traditional dish since 1981. Loved by both locals and tourists, it has become a must-try spot for anyone visiting Seoul.
Sinseon Seolleongtang is also known for giving back to the community through their “Love Meal Truck” volunteer activities, helping to spread Korean food culture.
🕗 Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
🍽️ Great for breakfast, dinner, or even a late-night meal!
✔️ Sinseon Seolleongtang（신선설농탕）
Address South Korea, Seoul, Jung District, Myeong-dong 2(i)-ga, 2-2 2F（Google Maps｜Never map）
Google Maps Code HX7P+G5 Seoul, South Korea
Hours 8 AM–9 PM
Closed Chuseok, New Year’s Day, and the day before Lunar New Year
Access 5-min walk from Myeongdong Station Exit 8 (Line 4)
Others Official website
It might be a bit tricky to find all branch details on Google Maps, so I recommend checking their official website or searching “신선설농탕” or “Sinseon ox bone soup” on Naver Maps to locate the branch closest to you!
Even before heading up to the 2nd floor, there’s a sign that introduces how to enjoy your meal:
– Take only the amount of kimchi you’ll eat
– Cut it into small pieces with scissors
– The broth is light, so seasoning is available
– Try soaking your rice in the soup for extra flavor!
Inside, the lighting is bright and the space is roomy. The seating feels semi-private, creating a cozy space to enjoy a meal with friends.
The menu is simple and includes both English and Chinese translations, so no worries about ordering. The top left item is the classic Seolleongtang, but there are other versions featuring dumplings, beef tendon, rice cakes, and more. There are also side options like seafood pancakes and boiled dumplings.
Apparently, the dumpling Seolleongtang is particularly popular among visitors!
You can choose between regular or large sizes. Prices range from ₩10,000 to ₩38,000 (roughly USD 7.30 to 27.70, as of today’s exchange rate).
Free Kimchi Bar – Self-Serve & Slice with Scissors
After ordering, you can help yourself to kimchi—there’s both napa cabbage and radish versions. Scissors are provided to cut them into bite-sized pieces.
After ordering, you can help yourself to kimchi—there’s both napa cabbage and radish versions. Scissors are provided to cut them into bite-sized pieces.
What We Ordered
I visited with Elsa and Mayoi. Elsa and I each got the regular-sized signature Seolleongtang, while Mayoi ordered the beef tendon Seolleongtang. We also shared a plate of five boiled dumplings.
The bowl came generously filled with thin slices of tender beef, slow-simmered to perfection. Every spoonful was rich, hearty, and flavorful—even without extra seasoning. I personally loved the original taste without adding anything.
But if you prefer a bit of a kick, the restaurant also provides a small plate of garlic soy sauce, which pairs beautifully with the beef slices. The savory garlic flavor adds just the right touch.
The boiled dumplings we ordered were also absolutely delicious—perfectly chewy skins and packed with juicy meat. Highly recommend ordering a plate if you visit!
For those of us who are used to bolder flavors (hello, fellow Asians!), there’s coarse salt and pepper on the table to adjust the taste to your liking.
✔️ Sinseon Seolleongtang（신선설농탕）
Address South Korea, Seoul, Jung District, Myeong-dong 2(i)-ga, 2-2 2F（Google Maps｜Never map）
Google Maps Code HX7P+G5 Seoul, South Korea
Hours 8 AM–9 PM
Closed Chuseok, New Year’s Day, and the day before Lunar New Year
Access 5-min walk from Myeongdong Station Exit 8 (Line 4)
Others Official website
That’s it from me—Tsubaki hopes you get a chance to try this deeply meaningful and flavorful dish when you visit Korea! 🥰
📌Korea Travel Planning
[Airport Transportation] Getting from Incheon Airport to Seoul Station: AREX Express Guide
[Essential Transportation] Must-Have WOWPASS Transit Card for Korea
[Korea eSIM] Unlimited data eSIM on KKday｜Various flexible eSIM options on Klook
🍜Seoul Food Recommendations
【Traditional Abalone Porridge】Myeongdong Classic: Seowon Abalone Porridge
[Seolleongtang] A Must-Eat in Seoul: Sinseon Seolleongtang
Notice for this article:
The above travelogue is based entirely on my personal experiences and subjective opinions from actual visits. All thoughts and impressions are my genuine and honest views. Please use your own discretion when referencing this content.
I frequently share travel updates on Instagram. Since I only recently started, I’d really appreciate it if you could follow and support me 🥰 （@287.travel ）
＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊
❗️All articles and most images on this website are original content created by us after extensive research and personal visits.
Every article is protected under DMCA. Unauthorized copying or redistribution is strictly prohibited. ❗️
If you found this article helpful, please share it with others or repost it ♥
You can also buy me a coffee to encourage me—I’d love to keep sharing more travel insights with you! ☕😊 I sincerely appreciate your support!
～～ You can also support me for free by clapping a few times on LIKE Citizens below! 😉 ～～
※Some free images on this site are downloaded from PhotoAC. For reference, please check the link below: 無料写真素材なら【写真AC】.
＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊
