Chewiness and Bounce: 5 Jjolmyeon Spots from 'Master of Living' Around Korea
A compact guide to five jjolmyeon shops featured on the TV show 'Master of Living'—each celebrated for springy noodles and a punchy spicy‑sweet sauce that refreshes on hot days.
Key Highlights
- •Featured on 'Master of Living' for exceptionally chewy noodles and balanced spicy‑sweet sauces
- •Casual, local eateries with quick service—visit off‑peak for easier seating
- •Order a large to share; top with boiled egg and raw vegetables, or ask for 덜 매운맛 (deol maeun‑mat) if you prefer milder spice
Overview
A short guide to five regional jjolmyeon (chewy, spicy-sweet Korean noodles) shops across Korea, highlighting each spot’s specialty — from broth-based mul jjolmyeon to extra-thick noodles and unique seasoning. Includes practical details like location, hours, prices, and local reviewer tips.
The bouncy, springy chew of fills your mouth — that’s ’s charm. Its sweet-and-spicy sauce is perfect for waking up an appetite that fades in the heat. From unusual broth-based to shops that pride themselves on extra-thick, extra-chewy noodles, here are five spots featured on the show "Masters of Everyday Life."
1. Uri House (우리하우스) — Chungjeongno 2-ga, Seoul (black shrimp seasoning boosts umami)
Location: 16 Chungjeongno 9-gil, Seodaemun District, Seoul
Hours: Weekdays 11:00–18:00 (may close early when ingredients run out); closed weekends
Price: 5,000 KRW; assorted stir-fry (modeum-bokki) 4,000 KRW
Tip from a reviewer: “This used to be a little neighborhood snack bar I wanted to keep to myself, but after appearing on TV it got so famous. Still, the taste hasn’t changed — in hot summers I find myself craving their .”
2. Gamrodang (감로당) — Geoncheon-eup, Gyeongju (offers warm and cold versions)
Location: 1128 Naeso-ro, Geoncheon-eup, Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang
Hours: Daily 10:30–19:00; closed Mondays
Price: Bibim 5,000 KRW; cold (naeng) 5,000 KRW
Tip from a reviewer: “I thought was only served cold, but their warm in hot broth is a surprising delight. The cold one is great too — and try the (fish cake); it’s unexpectedly tasty.”
3. Matna Bunsik (맛나분식) — Hwangji-dong, Taebaek (thick noodles for a full bite)
Location: 340 Beonyeong-ro, Taebaek, Gangwon Province
Hours: Daily 10:00–21:00; open year-round
Price: 7,000 KRW; fried dumplings (gun-mandu) 4,000 KRW
Tip from a reviewer: “Their noodles are much thicker than usual, so even a small portion gives you a satisfying, full mouthfeel. Pro tip: wrap a dumpling in the seasoned noodles — it’s delicious.”
4. Pungmidang (풍미당) — Okcheon-eup, Okcheon ( with a flavorful broth)
Location: 23-1 Jungang-ro, Okcheon-eup, Okcheon County, North Chungcheong
Hours: Daily 09:00–18:30; closed on the 1st and 3rd Mondays
Price: 6,000 KRW; bibim 6,000 KRW
Tip from a reviewer: “I tried here for the first time. The deep, savory broth with the chewy noodles is uniquely charming. Don’t cut the noodles — slurp them down in one go for the best experience.”
5. Boan Sikdang (보안식당) — Suseong-dong, Jeongeup (bright, tangy-spicy dressing)
Location: 95 Jungang-ro, Jeongeup, North Jeolla
Hours: Daily 11:30–19:30; closed Sundays
Price: bibim 6,000 KRW; red bean kalguksu 5,000 KRW
Tip from a reviewer: “The chewy noodles soaked in a boldly spicy-and-sour sauce really wake up the appetite in summer. It’s the best I’ve had so far. In winter the hot kalguksu is JMT (just so good)!”
Summary
- •Try different styles: bibim jjolmyeon (mixed spicy-sweet) versus mul jjolmyeon (served in broth) to see which texture-sauce balance you prefer.
- •Check hours and early sell-outs — some shops close when ingredients run out or are closed certain weekdays.
- •Order small sides (odeng, mandu) or combine dumplings with the seasoned noodles for extra satisfaction.
Glossary
- jjolmyeon
- Chewy cold noodles tossed in a spicy-sweet, tangy sauce; known for their springy texture.
- Jjolmyeon
- A cold Korean noodle dish with very chewy noodles tossed in a spicy‑sweet, vinegar‑forward sauce, usually served with raw vegetables and a boiled egg
- mul jjolmyeon
- A variation of jjolmyeon served in a light, savory broth rather than fully mixed with sauce — often enjoyed by slurping.
- odeng
- Korean fish cake, commonly served skewered in broth or as a side at casual eateries.
- Saenghwal-ui Dal-in (생활의달인)
- A long‑running Korean TV program ('Master of Living') that highlights craftsmen and cooks recognized for expert technique