Miseongok(미성옥)

Cuisine

Seolleongtang(설렁탕 전문점)

District

Junggu(중구),Seoul

Address

Seoul Jung-gu Myeongdong-gil 25-11

Miseongok is a long-established seolleongtang restaurant tucked into a narrow alley across from Myeongdong Cathedral in Seoul's Jung-gu, distinguished by its clear, gomtang-style broth rather than the milky white soup typical of the genre. The first spoonful reveals a savory, clean beef stock with genuine depth. Hanwoo beef is used throughout, and the meat is remarkably tender — a noticeable step above the chewy cuts found at most seolleongtang shops. Ordering the special increases the meat portion, though the addition amounts to roughly two or three extra pieces over the regular, so expectations should be set accordingly. The complimentary kkakdugi carries a slight tanginess that pairs beautifully with the restrained broth, while the napa kimchi leans mildly sweet. A recommended approach is to taste a few spoonfuls of plain broth first, then add pepper to shift the flavor profile as the meal progresses. The boiled beef platter is another strength — tender, free of gamey odor, and priced more reasonably than at many competing well-known seolleongtang establishments. Broth refills are available, and seolleongtang is priced around 14,000 won. The restaurant's location in a tight Myeongdong alley gives it an old-Seoul charm, and turnover is fast enough that even a queue moves through relatively quickly. Staff numbers in the hall are limited, so getting attention for kimchi refills during rush hours can be difficult, and the broth occasionally arrives at a lukewarm temperature rather than piping hot.