Korean style pork galbi being grilled at Myeongnyun Jinsa Galbi BBQ restaurant in Jongno Seoul, a popular local dining option near Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Introduction
If you are looking for Korean pork galbi in central Seoul, the Jongno Gwancheol branch of Myeongnyun Jinsa Galbi is a practical and reliable option.
Located in one of the busiest dining streets in Jongno, this restaurant is part of a well-known nationwide BBQ franchise specializing in marinated pork ribs and grilled meat.
It offers a consistent and approachable Korean BBQ experience that many locals regularly visit.
Location – Jongno Gwancheol, Seoul
The branch is located near Jonggak Station and within walking distance of Jongno 3-ga. The surrounding area is filled with restaurants, bars, and traditional streets, making it convenient for visitors exploring central Seoul.
Dinner hours can be busy, especially on weekends.
Google Maps – Jongno Gwancheol Branch
Menu
Pork Galbi (sweet soy-based marinade)
Raw Pork Belly served on a plate
Japchae (glass noodles)
Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes)
Kimchi and assorted side dishes
Steamed rice
Kimchi stew or soybean paste stew
The pork galbi is grilled directly at your table, allowing the marinade to caramelize while keeping the meat tender inside.
Experience
From my experience, the pork galbi was the highlight of the meal. The marinade caramelizes quickly, so flipping the ribs frequently helps prevent burning and keeps the meat juicy.
Turning the ribs several times creates slightly crispy edges while maintaining a soft texture inside.
The staff replaced the grill plate once it became too dark, which helped maintain a clean flavor without excessive charring. That small detail noticeably improved the overall dining experience.
The pork belly was cut thick and grilled evenly. Once cooked, it had a satisfying texture — crispy on the outside and juicy inside. Ordering both pork galbi and pork belly allows you to compare flavors and textures.
Families were dining nearby, and the atmosphere felt comfortable for groups.
Some visitors may prefer to have a light snack or a quick bite before enjoying Korean BBQ. If you are looking for a simple and fast meal nearby,
👉 Visit Mom’s Touch in Daehakro for a quick Korean-style chicken burger before your BBQ experience
Children especially seemed to enjoy the pork galbi along with items from the self-serve salad bar, including tteokbokki and soft drinks.
After enjoying Korean pork galbi, many visitors look for a place to relax with a cup of coffee. If you want a convenient café nearby,
👉Visit Compose Coffee in Jongno for a smooth and aromatic coffee that is perfect after enjoying Korean BBQ
Dining Tip
One practical tip is to consider the order in which you eat.
It is recommended to start with pork galbi as the main dish and fully enjoy it first. Because pork galbi is marinated, the grill plate can burn more easily due to the caramelized sauce.
For the best experience, change the grill plate before cooking pork belly. This helps preserve the clean, rich taste of the meat.
If you plan to use the self-serve salad bar, it is better to enjoy it later in the meal. The salad bar at Myeongnyun Jinsa Galbi includes items such as fried chicken and tteokbokki.
A balanced order would be:
Pork Galbi → Grill Change → Pork Belly → Salad Bar (lightly at the end)
About the Franchise
Myeongnyun Jinsa Galbi operates as a nationwide Korean BBQ franchise with branches across Seoul, Busan, Incheon, Gyeonggi Province, and other major cities in Korea.
Because it is a franchise, the menu and pricing remain relatively standardized. This provides a predictable dining experience for international visitors.
Pricing (2026 Guide)
Pork Galbi: ₩16,000–₩22,000 per serving
Pork Belly: ₩14,000–₩18,000
Unlimited options (varies by branch): ₩18,000–₩25,000 per person.
For central Jongno, this falls within the typical Korean BBQ price range.
Final Thoughts
The Jongno Gwancheol branch of Myeongnyun Jinsa
Practical Information
Google Maps – Jongno Gwancheol Branch
More Places to Eat in Jongno
• Waffle University Daehakro Campus (Korean Dessert Cafe)
👉 Explore Waffle University Daehakro
• Mom’s Touch Daehakro (Thigh Burger Set)
👉 Check Out Mom’s Touch in Daehakro