Hyungnim Jeoyo Hongdae Review 2026: Authentic Charcoal BBQ & Pork Belly

Hongdae's Hyungnim Jeoyo: Real Charcoal-Grilled Samgyeopsal & Pork Skin

A Review by Minimanimoo

Hello, fellow food adventurers!

This is Minimanimoo, your guide to Seoul's best eats.

Today, I'm excited to share my experience at Hyungnim Jeoyo, a legendary Korean BBQ spot in Hongdae that has been serving up delicious grilled meats since 1997. If you're looking for that authentic, old-school Korean barbecue vibe, this is your place!

This particular Hongdae gem is even famous for a visit from none other than Gordon Ramsay himself. From smoky, charcoal-grilled pork belly (samgyeopsal) to the unique, chewy delight of pork skin (kkeopdegi), you'll find a fantastic variety of meats to savor here.

Hyungnim Jeoyo Business Information

Exterior / Interior

The restaurant is super accessible, just a 2-minute walk from Hongik University Station. It's located right on a corner that you've probably passed by if you've ever explored Hongdae, so it's easy to spot!

You can check out the menu from outside, and yes, that's a sign commemorating Gordon Ramsay's visit!

The interior has a cozy, traditional vibe with classic round tables, giving it that beloved old-school Korean restaurant feel. Restrooms are located outside the restaurant, within the building itself.

Menu & My Order

Hyungnim Jeoyo offers a fantastic selection of pork, beef, and pork skin, along with various side dishes, so there's something to satisfy every craving.

My Order:

·Real Samgyeopsal ~$10 * 3

·Pork Skin (Kkeopdegi) ~$7

·Yeolmu Guksu (Radish Kimchi Noodles) ~$5

·Doenjang Sulbap (Soybean Paste Stew with Rice) ~$4

·Soju ~$4 * 3

My Review

Once you're seated, they'll hand you the menu, and shortly after you order, the delicious array of side dishes (banchan) will be set up. The basic banchan includes: pickled onions, seasoned scallions, kimchi, ssamjang (dipping sauce), garlic, lettuce wraps, sesame oil, and salt.

The star of the show, the Real Samgyeopsal, comes pre-grilled, so you only need to finish it off on the grill to get that perfect char.

Grilling the meat over authentic charcoal imbues it with a subtle smoky aroma, truly enhancing its rich flavor.

It's delicious wrapped in lettuce with pickled onions, and with its crispy exterior and juicy interior, every bite is incredibly savory and satisfying.

A must-have when eating Korean BBQ: Doenjang Sulbap!

This hearty soybean paste stew with rice is incredibly comforting and makes for a perfect companion to your drinks, filling you up nicely.

For the grand finale, we ordered the pork skin (kkeopdegi), which comes pre-cut into perfect bite-sized pieces.

Grill the pork skin until it's golden brown on both sides, then dip it in soybean powder for a wonderfully nutty, chewy texture. It's a fantastic way to get your collagen fix!

To cleanse the palate, we finished with a refreshing and generously portioned bowl of Yeolmu Guksu (radish kimchi noodles). It's the perfect cool-down after all that savory meat!

Overall Rating

If you're looking for a Korean BBQ restaurant near Hongik University Station, Hyungnim Jeoyo truly delivers on both value and atmosphere.

✔️ Just a 2-minute walk from Hongik University Station

✔️ Charcoal-grilled meats with an incredible smoky flavor

✔️ Wide variety of samgyeopsal, pork skin, and delicious side dishes

✔️ Relaxed, old-school atmosphere perfect for a casual meal or drinks

I highly recommend Hyungnim Jeoyo for an authentic Hongdae BBQ experience!

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