What Is Seonji Haejang-guk? An Introduction to Korea’s Hangover Cure
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Traditional Korean seonji haejang-guk served hot with rice, kimchi, and sauces, perfect for hangover recovery. |
If you ask any Korean, they’ll tell you that haejang-guk is one of the most beloved comfort foods, enjoyed by people of all ages. Personally, I’ve been eating it since I was young, and I still have it more than five times a month. While haejang-guk is often eaten as a regular meal, it’s especially popular the morning after drinking. After a night out with friends, it’s almost a ritual to head to a haejang-guk restaurant the next day.
With more tourists visiting Korea, many foreigners end up encountering this unique dish. I once took a friend from the U.S. to a haejang-guk place after a night of drinking. At first, he seemed unsure about the unfamiliar ingredients, but after just one taste, he was hooked and ate heartily. Now, whenever we go drinking, he’s the one suggesting we hit up a haejang-guk spot the next day!
What’s Inside? Seonji, Dadaegi, and Flavorful Broth
For first-timers, seonji haejang-guk can look a bit intimidating. Seonji is congealed ox blood, with a soft, slightly firm texture similar to savory pudding. The soup also includes slices of beef, bean sprouts, napa cabbage, and more, all served piping hot in a stone bowl (ttukbaegi).
The flavor is mild and clean, often described by Koreans as "sihwonhada," which doesn’t mean cold—it refers to a refreshing, satisfying taste that clears the palate. If you find the broth too mild, you can add a spicy seasoning paste called "dadaegi" to adjust the heat. Most restaurants serve it on the side, but some mix it in directly.
Tips for Foreigners Trying Seonji Haejang-guk for the First Time
Many foreign friends who have tried haejang-guk with me were initially surprised by the seonji, but after tasting it, they found it surprisingly enjoyable. Adding dadaegi can give the soup a pleasant spicy kick. Also, remember that Korean restaurants usually serve several small side dishes (banchan) like kimchi and onions for free—they come automatically with your order, and you can always ask for more or use a self-service bar if available.
If you’re unsure about eating seonji, don’t worry! When ordering, you can simply say “seonji bbaejuseyo” (선지 빼주세요), which means “Please remove the seonji,” and you’ll get a version without it. Knowing this phrase can make your dining experience much smoother.
Exploring Korea’s Hangover Culture Through Haejang-guk
Seonji haejang-guk is more than just a dish; it’s part of Korea’s broader drinking and recovery culture. If you’re visiting Korea, it’s worth trying at least once to experience something truly local. At first, it might seem unfamiliar, but you may find yourself falling in love with the rich flavors and comforting warmth.
In Korea, haejang-guk restaurants are everywhere, and each has its own distinct flavor. Not every place is guaranteed to be amazing, but here’s a simple tip: look for spots that are busy during breakfast or lunch hours. Just like in any country, good restaurants naturally attract more customers. While you probably won’t see long lines at haejang-guk places, a steady flow of locals is a good sign you’ve found a spot worth trying. Keep this in mind for a better experience!
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