Soumunnan Sundae-guk: A Hidden Gem in Mokdong's Omokgyo Market

I'm writing this review of Soumunnan Sundae-guk because looking through these photos makes me want to go back right now!

This amazing Sundae-guk spot in Omokgyo is (feat. run by a veteran marathoner couple).

As a lifelong local who's lived in Mokdong for over three decades, I was amazed I never knew about Omokgyo Market, tucked away in a small alley, or this legendary old-school Sundae-guk restaurant within it.

While Manbok Sundae-guk near Mokdong Station is a well-known local favorite, Soumunnan Sundae-guk offers a completely different, equally delicious experience with its unique Sundae-guk and incredible Head Cheese Slices.

#PaidForByMyFriend Thanks to my buddy for treating me!

Soumunnan Sundae-guk

Address

43 Sinmok-ro 2-gil, Yangcheon-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Operating Hours

Daily 09:30 AM - 01:00 AM

Approximately 0.2 miles (350 meters) from Omokgyo Station Exit 5

Located inside Omokgyo Market

A plate of Head Cheese Slices: ~$26

Just look at the visuals of those Head Cheese Slices! They were so incredibly delicious that after finishing them, I even packed two more portions to take home.

From cheek meat to various other parts, these Head Cheese Slices are directly boiled and sliced fresh every morning. It's the kind of flavor that makes the soju flow freely!

You absolutely HAVE to try this dish here.

On days they boil the head cheese, you'll see a sign like this on the window.

We ordered Sundae-guk and Head Cheese Slices, and they even gave us some Sundae (Korean blood sausage) as a complimentary dish.

At ~$22, the Head Cheese Slices here might seem a bit pricey for a market stall, but considering the quality of this traditional eatery, it's a steal. You'd likely pay around ~$36 for similar quality at a Sundae-guk restaurant in Gangnam.

Tender yet chewy, these Head Cheese Slices are the perfect accompaniment to a drink!

Enjoy them with a sprinkle of salt or a dollop of salted shrimp paste.

When we ordered Sundae-guk and Head Cheese Slices, they kindly offered complimentary Sundae and various pork offal.

Inside the restaurant, you'll find a mix of traditional floor seating and regular tables.

The owner, we learned, was once a chef for Korean Air! You can see various certificates and documents related to his impressive career posted above the menu.

Now THIS is what I call character! Marathon medals are casually displayed on the walls of this Sundae-guk spot.

Both the husband and wife owners are long-time, dedicated marathon runners, as evidenced by the numerous photos. They are still actively participating in marathons even today!

Soumunnan Sundae-guk Menu

As a long-standing establishment, the walls are adorned with many celebrity autographs. On the day I visited, the owner even showed us a YouTube video of comedians doing a mukbang (eating show) at the restaurant!

#LeeSunminRestaurant #ComedianFavorite

Salt, pepper, and cutlery are conveniently placed on the table.

The full array of side dishes is set: cubed radish kimchi (Kkakdugi), salted shrimp paste (Saewujeot), seasoned chives (Buchu-muchim), Ssamjang (spicy dipping sauce), garlic, chili peppers, and even a special dipping sauce for the Sundae.

The Kkakdugi is absolutely delicious!

If you step out the back door, you'll find yourself in an alley of Omokgyo Market, where they directly slice and serve the fresh ingredients.

They also serve homemade green onion kimchi (pa-kimchi) and mustard leaf kimchi (gat-kimchi). These taste exactly like the authentic, rustic kimchi your grandmother would make in the countryside! We heard they even sell them separately.

The Sundae-guk here isn't the 'clean' or mild type; it boasts a rich, robust, and slightly pungent broth—the authentic flavor you'd expect from a traditional market eatery.

Sundae-guk: ~$8

While this rich flavor might not be for everyone, if you appreciate hearty, traditional Korean tastes, you'll absolutely love this delicious Sundae-guk.

After a satisfying meal, we packed up two more portions of Head Cheese Slices and headed home!

Since it's an old-school establishment located within a bustling market, the hygiene might not be pristine, but the food is so incredibly delicious that it's worth overlooking.

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When you walk through the alleys near Omokgyo Market, you might notice a distinct aroma from the boiling head cheese and Sundae-guk. However, rest assured, the actual Head Cheese Slices and Sundae-guk themselves are perfectly fine and free of any unpleasant odors.