A Spicy Feast in Myeongdong: Agujjim(아구찜) & Haemul Nurungji-tang (누룽지탕)

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 When it comes to hearty Korean meals that bring friends and families together, Agujjim (아구찜) and Haemul Nurungji-tang (해물 누룽지탕) stand out as unforgettable dishes. During my recent food adventure in Myeongdong, I discovered why locals love these two comfort foods so much.

🌶️ Agujjim: The Spicy Monkfish Stew

Agujjim is a fiery seafood dish made with monkfish, soybean sprouts, and vegetables, all stir-fried in a red pepper sauce. The monkfish has a tender yet slightly chewy texture, which pairs perfectly with the crunchy sprouts.

  • The flavor: Bold, spicy, and savory with just the right kick.

  • The texture: A perfect balance between the soft fish meat and the crunchy sprouts.

  • The experience: Best shared with friends, since the generous portions are designed for group dining.

🦑 Haemul Nurungji-tang: Seafood with Scorched Rice

After the heat of Agujjim, nothing is more comforting than a bowl of Haemul Nurungji-tang. This dish combines assorted seafood like clams, shrimp, squid, and mussels with crispy scorched rice (nurungji) in a hot, savory broth.

  • The highlight: The sizzling sound when hot broth is poured over the nurungji—an experience for both the ears and taste buds.

  • The taste: Deeply flavored broth with a subtle smokiness from the crispy rice.

  • The feeling: A satisfying comfort food, especially after a long day exploring Myeongdong.


📍 Where I Ate in Myeongdong

There are many great restaurants serving Agujjim and Haemul Nurungji-tang, but one that stood out was a cozy spot tucked away in a side street. The staff were warm, the atmosphere lively, and the flavors unforgettable.

If you’re visiting Myeongdong, you’ll notice clusters of seafood restaurants offering these specialties—just follow the aromas and you won’t be disappointed.

Address:31-1 Nam-san-dong 3-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul
Nearest Subway:** Myeongdong Station (Line 4) – head to Exit 11, then walk through the convenience store alley; you’ll see a distinctive red brick building—it’s located right on the first floor.

🍶 Perfect Pairing

Both Agujjim and Haemul Nurungji-tang pair wonderfully with a cold glass of beer or a bottle of soju. The spicy kick of Agujjim becomes smoother with each sip, while the mild, comforting broth of Nurungji-tang balances the flavors.

✨ Final Thoughts

If you want to experience a true local feast in Myeongdong, don’t miss out on Agujjim and Haemul Nurungji-tang. Together, they capture the bold, fiery, and comforting sides of Korean cuisine in one meal. Whether you’re a spice lover or a comfort food enthusiast, this duo is guaranteed to leave you satisfied.

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