Sokcho’s Best Kept Secret: A Must-Visit Spot for Seopguk Lovers
If you’ve ever woken up with a heavy head after a night out and wished for a comforting bowl of soup to bring you back to life, Sokcho Ttukbaegi Seopguk might just be your new favorite spot. Nestled in the heart of Sokcho, this unassuming restaurant has quietly built a cult following among locals and travelers alike—for one simple reason: its incredible seopguk.
🌊 What is Seopguk?
First, a quick note—“Seop” is the local Gangwon-do dialect for honghap, which means mussel in Korean. Seopguk, then, is a hearty mussel soup served bubbling hot in a traditional earthenware bowl (ttukbaegi). The broth is light yet flavorful, combining the briny sweetness of fresh mussels with the earthy, umami-rich depth of seaweed, bean sprouts, and leeks. It’s the kind of soup that wakes you up from the inside out—perfect for breakfast, lunch, or the ultimate hangover cure.
🥣 Why This Place Stands Out
I first discovered this gem on a previous trip to Sokcho. After an evening of drinks with friends, I needed something warm and restorative the next morning—and that’s when I found this place. One spoonful of their seopguk and I was hooked. The broth was crystal clear yet full of depth, the mussels were fresh and plump, and the side dishes (banchan) were all made in-house and wonderfully seasoned.
In fact, the soup was so memorable that I made a return trip to Sokcho just to eat here again.
🍲 Branches With a Backstory
The restaurant now has two branches, both within walking distance of each other (roughly 10 minutes apart). Interestingly, the original owner now runs the second location, while his son has taken over the original. The newer branch is a bit more spacious and modern, and it also has a larger parking area, making it more convenient for families or groups.
Both locations maintain the same high-quality taste and welcoming service.
⏰ Operating Hours & Tips
- Hours: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Closed on Sundays
- Takeout available – especially helpful if you’re staying at a place with a kitchen and want to enjoy the soup on a quiet Sunday morning.
If you’re planning a visit on a Sunday, be sure to get it packed in advance!
💸 Menu Highlights
| Menu Item | Price (KRW) |
|---|---|
| Ttukbaegi Seopguk | 15,000 |
| Seop Miyeokguk (Seaweed & Mussel Soup) | 15,000 |
| Dongtae-tang (Pollack Soup) | 13,000 |
| Gamja-jeon (Potato Pancake) | 12,000 |
Note: Potato pancakes may not be available during peak hours, but they’re worth trying if you can!
🥬 Self-Serve Side Dishes
This restaurant offers a small self-serve banchan bar with six types of side dishes. Each one is carefully prepared and complements the main dish beautifully. You can tell the owner knows their way around Korean cooking—the quality of the soup is matched by the quality of the sides.
🌅 Perfect Location for a Day Trip
One of the things I loved most about this spot was its proximity to Sokcho’s natural attractions.
- Just 5 minutes away on foot is the scenic Yeongnangho Lake walking trail.
- Cross the road and within 3 minutes, you’ll find Jangsa Beach—a quiet, picturesque stretch of coast perfect for a post-meal stroll.
- The central market and Cheongchoho area are also just a short bus ride away.
This makes the restaurant not only a culinary gem but also a strategic stop during a day out in Sokcho.
📝 Final Thoughts
This place isn’t just about food—it’s about comfort, warmth, and authenticity. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying breakfast, a midday meal after sightseeing, or a way to recover from a night of drinks, Sokcho Ttukbaegi Seopguk delivers every time.
If you ever find yourself in Sokcho, don’t leave without trying this bowl of soul-soothing seopguk. Your taste buds—and your body—will thank you.
