Muguok is a cozy eatery in Seongsu (Seoul), known for serving North-Korean style Samgyetang (samgye baekban) that is, ginseng chicken in a richer, heartier preparation than the usual version.
Unlike the typical Samgyetang where a whole chicken is simmered with rice and ginseng in a single bubbling pot, Muguok serves the components separately: a tender boiled chicken on a plate, a bowl of thick, aromatic broth, rice and two sides of banchan.
This deconstructed presentation gives diners more control – you can taste the broth first before adding in the ginseng and raw garlic, then dip the chicken in the ginger scallion sauce or add flavours as you like. The result feels more refined, considered and balanced than the more rustic classic version.
What Stood Out
Rich, deeply-flavoured broth – The soup is thick, almost creamy, with great depth, thanks to long hours of simmering of ginseng culture root, Uiseong garlic and premium locally sourced aromatic rice.
Tender, well-cooked chicken – The chicken, even the breast meat was fall-off the bone tender and tasty making each bite pleasant rather than dry or bland.
Balanced side dishes and condiments – We had a side dish of squid / chicken mix which had squid, water parsley, chicken, radish mixed together with gochujang and vinegar. This side dish and the kkakdugi help add freshness, acidity and crunch to the meal.
Unique variation of Samgyetang – For those used to the more common styles of Korean ginseng chicken soup, Muguok offers a worthwhile alternative: a different flavour profile and different experience.
What to Know
Be prepared to queue – Muguok is popular, and especially around lunch hours or weekends, there tends to be a line. We waited slightly more than an hour in the late November cold. Be prepared to arrive early and get your queue number via CatchTable.
Simple, focused menu – The offerings are limited, mainly variations of the chicken soup. If you’re looking for a wide spread, this might feel restrictive.
Who Should Try Muguok
If you love hearty Korean comfort food, enjoy ginseng-based soups, or want to taste a unique North-Korean style Samgyetang that’s a bit more refined than the classic version, Muguok is absolutely worth a visit.
It’s especially ideal for:
- Solo travellers or friends who want a nourishing meal
- People exploring Seoul’s cultural heart (Samcheong-dong / Jongno) and want a traditional-but-unique food experience
- Those curious about lesser-known Korean culinary traditions
- Anyone who enjoys rich broths, tender chicken and classic Korean side dishes
But maybe skip it if you:
- Don’t like waiting in line or queues
- Prefer light meals or lots of variety on the menu
- Don’t enjoy heavy, rich soup-based dishes
Final Verdict
It’s not flashy, but it does something simple and does it very well. The North-Korean style deconstructed Samgyetang is comforting, flavourful and palatable to first-time diners.
If you’re in Seoul and craving something warm and soulful – especially before or after exploring the trendy Seongsu area, Muguok is a dining experience I’d highly recommend.
Rating: 4.25 / 5
Muguok 무구옥
South Korea, Seoul, Seongdong-gu, Achasan-ro 11-gil, 11 무구옥 1층 103호
Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/5oiG9bJvbH524Xwv8
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