Korea's First Restaurant: Imun Seolnongtang (이문설농탕) 2026 Guide

A steaming bowl of Imun Seolnongtang

Have you ever dined at a place that is older than the Republic of Korea itself? 🥣🇰🇷

Established in 1904, "Imun Seolnongtang" is officially Korea's first registered restaurant. For over 120 years, it has stood its ground in the heart of Jongno, serving a clear, honest bowl of ox-bone soup that eschews modern artificial additives. Whether you're a history buff or a foodie, this Michelin Bib Gourmand spot is a pilgrimage you must take. Let's dive into the pot of history!

🌟 Quick Overview: Imun Seolnongtang

• Established: 1904 (The oldest restaurant in Korea)
• Specialty: Traditional Seolnongtang & Unique Beef Cuts (Manna-ni)
• Accolades: Michelin Guide Seoul Bib Gourmand / Seoul Future Heritage
• Best For: Fans of clean, traditional flavors and historical dining.

1. How to Get There (Location & Transport) 📍

SUBWAY (Line 1) Jonggak Station (Exit 3-1). Walk for about 5 minutes toward Jogyesa Temple. It's hidden in a small alleyway.

🚕 SHOW THIS TO THE TAXI DRIVER:

인사동 이문설농탕 (주소: 종로구 우정국로 38-13)으로 가주세요.

2. Prices & Operating Hours 🕒

🕙 Operating Hours

• Mon - Sat: 08:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Sunday: 08:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Break Time: 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM (Mon-Fri only)

🍴 Menu (2026 Prices)

• Seolnongtang (Standard): 14,000 KRW
• Seolnongtang (Special/Dak-sin): 17,000 KRW
• Dogani-tang (Ox Knee Soup): 22,000 KRW
• Suyuk (Boiled Beef Slices): 45,000 KRW

3. ✨ Pro-Tips for the Full Experience

👍 MUST-SEE POINTS

• The "Manna-ni" cut – A rare spleen part served only here. If you are adventurous, ask for it!
• The Clear Broth – It’s not milky white like modern versions. It’s light and clean, letting the beef flavor shine.
• Historical Photos – Check out the old newspaper clippings on the wall that date back decades.

⚠️ CAUTIONS

• The broth is unseasoned. You must add salt, pepper, and green onions yourself from the table containers.
• The location is in a narrow alley, which can be tricky to find for first-timers.

4. 💡 Photography & Insider Tips

• The "Scallion" Shot: Don't just photograph the soup as it comes. Pile on the fresh green onions for that vibrant green contrast against the clear broth!
• Kkakdugi Juice: Locals often pour the radish kimchi juice into the soup when they are halfway done. Capture the color change for a great "step-by-step" blog post!
• Storage: No luggage space. Use the **lockers at Jonggak Station** if you're traveling with bags.

#ImunSeolnongtang #OldestRestaurant #SeoulHistory #JongnoFood #MichelinSeoul2026 #KoreanBeefSoup #VisitSeoul #InsaDongEats #SeoulFutureHeritage

Ready for a taste of the past?
There is something deeply comforting about a soup that hasn't changed its recipe for 120 years. Would you try the rare "Manna-ni" cut? 🥣🇰🇷✨