현대옥

Hands down one of the most memorable meals I’ve had so far in Korea! With a friendly ajumma’s help, we managed to locate Hyundaiok Nambusijang along one of the hidden alleys within Jeonju’s Nambu Market - a tiny stall that has additional surrounding sitting space. It’s a very no frills and unassuming place! Ordering is super simple as they serve just this one and only dish. Sit down and decide if you like a mild, spicy or super spicy soup base and whether you would like squid or not (without it it’s 6,000KRW but please just top up)!

The soup with rice beneath is quickly served boiling hot in an earthen pot along with a plate of banchan, a pack of seaweed, a raw egg in a metal bowl (it’s called sooran) and a tangerine. Tear a few pieces of seaweed, scoop a few spoons of hot soup in, mix and you’re ready to slurp the egg down to start off the meal! What won my heart over immediately though, is that amazing clear soup. Oh my goodness, looks simple but it was extremely hearty and comforting, light yet so robust with a hint of spice (I had mild) that worked perfectly in elevating the overall flavours. There are many different elements in this but they worked harmoniously together in a way that still retains each ingredient's individuality. A poster on the wall showed that the broth is boiled using ingredients like kelp, dried anchovies and kimchi. The beansprouts were fresh and crunchy, squids had a nice bite and rice well-cooked. I polished every single drop of soup and even helped my friend (she's a small breakfast eater) with hers! My only regret is only trying this on my last day in Jeonju!

📍 현대옥 Hyundaiok Nambusijang
Nambu Market, Jeonju, Korea
Address: 완산구 전동 3가 2-242남부시장 2동 74
2-242, Jeon-dong 3-ga, Wansan-gu | Nambu Market 2-74, Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do, South Korea
Opening Hours: 6am till Sold Out (Usually 1pm)