In Korea, dumplings are more than just food. They are holiday staples and home-style comfort meals, shaped by the diverse traditions and tastes of each region. Among these, Kaesong-style mandu (dumplings) are especially loved for their refined flavor and craftsmanship.
'Kaesong Mandu Koong,' located in Insadong and Yeonhui-dong, Seoul, is one of the best places to experience authentic Kaesong-style dumplings. This restaurant has been recognized by the Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand for nine consecutive years, gaining popularity with both local and international guests.
🥟 A Brief History of Dumplings in Korea
Kaesong Mandu Koong preserves Korea's traditional dumpling culture.
- Kaesong-style mandu: Made with vegetables like zucchini and mung bean sprouts, wrapped in thin, chewy dough. These dumplings are known for their delicate, balanced flavors.
- Pyongyang-style mandu: Larger dumplings filled with tofu and meat, boasting a soft texture and clean taste.
- Seoul-style mandu: Similar to Kaesong-style but often shaped differently to enhance broth absorption.
🍽️ Signature Dishes at Kaesong Mandu Koong
- Beef Mandu Soup: Large dumplings filled with vegetables in a rich, savory beef bone broth.
- Kimchi Mandu Soup: Dumplings filled with spicy, crunchy kimchi and pork, served with sliced rice cake.
- Steamed Mushroom Mandu: A vegetarian option, filled with assorted mushrooms and steamed to perfection.
All dishes are available for takeaway. Soups are frozen solid for packaging, making them ideal for long-distance travel. The broth comes in generous portions and can be repurposed for making rice cake soup, stews, or even noodles.
🧭 Store Locations
Insadong Main Branch
- Address: 11-3, Insadong 10-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Hours: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM (Sundays until 8:00 PM, Break: 3:00–4:00 PM)
- Parking: Not available (Use public transport)
Yeonhui-dong Branch
- Address: 2F, 23 Yeonhui Mat-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul
- Hours: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM (Break: 4:00–5:00 PM)
- Parking: Available at Saruga Shopping (1-hour free)
🌍 Popular with Foreign Visitors
Kaesong Mandu Koong is loved by international guests. Both branches welcome foreign diners with English menus and a warm atmosphere. It’s the perfect introduction to traditional Korean dumplings.
🏅 9-Year Michelin Bib Gourmand Honoree
From 2017 to 2025, Kaesong Mandu Koong was awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand designation for nine consecutive years. This award honors restaurants that offer high-quality food at reasonable prices. The Michelin Guide describes Bib Gourmand spots as "friendly places that serve great food at reasonable prices."
The restaurant’s philosophy centers on the belief that “the flavor of food comes from fresh ingredients and the care put into making it.” Kaesong Mandu Koong continues to strive for honesty and quality in every dish.
📚 The Story of Kaesong Mandu Koong
A Legacy Born from Dumplings and Rice Cakes
The founder grew up hearing stories from her grandmother about mandu and traditional rice cakes called joraengi-tteok. In Kaesong, making dumplings was a winter tradition, and each household had its unique recipe.
A Family Business Through Generations
The story began with a love match between the founder’s grandparents. Her grandfather, a brush maker, settled in Insadong and opened a shop. During hard times, her grandmother started selling mandu in Yeongdeungpo, which laid the foundation for 'Koong.'
After a brief hiatus due to health issues, the family resumed the business at their home in Insadong. The founder’s mother led the kitchen, and word-of-mouth made the shop increasingly popular.
A New Start with the Third Generation
After her mother passed away in 2003, the founder almost closed the business. But encouragement from loyal customers rekindled her determination. Inspired by her grandmother and mother’s dedication, she vowed to uphold the family legacy.
Committed to Tradition and Quality
Even during challenging times like the 1998 IMF crisis and the 2004 mandu scandal, the founder held firmly to her values. The family continues to honor their heritage, aiming to preserve the 'Koong' tradition for future generations.
🔪 The Philosophy Behind Their Food
Every morning at Kaesong Mandu Koong starts with fresh, handpicked ingredients. Dumplings are made by hand daily with precision and care. Their kimchi, made from domestic winter cabbage and sea salt, is also crafted by hand and aged in a low-temperature storage room.
🔗 Official Website
For more information and online orders, visit the https://www.koong.co.kr/2020/eng/koongstory/greeting.phphttps://www.koong.co.kr/2020/eng/koongstory/greeting.php
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