Delicious spots on Jeju Island: A wonderful experience at Ujin Haejangguk
Kanggeoru S
4 days ago
Address: Jeju-si Seosa-ro 11
As a Japanese woman traveling in Korea, I had the chance to visit beautiful Jeju Island. While I was there, I found a wonderful restaurant where you can enjoy delicious food, Ujin Haejangguk, and I would like to share my thoughts with everyone.
Ujin Haejangguk is a popular spot that’s open from early morning until late at night. No matter what time you go, it’s always bustling with customers. The dining room has around 60 seats and is always full, and the huge pot in the back keeps simmering nonstop.
The most famous menu item here is Gosari Haejangguk, a traditional Jeju Island dish. When April comes around, they slowly simmer it using gosari (bracken fern) grown in Jeju Island’s wide fields along with pork. On Jeju Island, it’s considered a local dish enjoyed for celebrations.
Because the gosari is simmered for so long, you can barely even tell its shape. It’s known for its rich savory flavor and porridge-like texture, it may feel unfamiliar at first, but it’s so delicious that anyone can get hooked.
Ujin Haejangguk appeared on the popular Korean food TV show “Wednesday Food Talk,” which made it even more famous. Sometimes you may have to wait around 30 minutes to get a seat, but it also tastes great as takeout. I didn’t have much time, so I chose takeout, and the flavor was more than satisfying.
Since many people dine alone, it’s also recommended for solo visitors. Because the gosari is simmered for a long time, in the Yukgaejang it has basically dissolved to the point where you can’t see it anymore. The highlight is a rich, thick, hearty haejangguk.
The balance of spiciness and saltiness is just right, it’s truly delicious. However, for me (as a Japanese person) it was a little spicy. You could ask them to make it a bit less spicy.
Lastly, when you visit Jeju Island, be sure to try Ujin Haejangguk’s Gosari Yukgaejang. It will be an unforgettable experience where you can savor this beautiful island’s unique flavor.
