[Mapo / Daheung] Kim Sook Sung Daheung Main Branch, Now in Buttercup Season! Grilling the finest Handon 2CM Pork Shoulder korea hongdae

Discover Kim Sook Sung Daheung Main Branch, a top-tier aged pork restaurant near Gyeongui Line Forest Path in Mapo. Indulge in their signature 2CM thick pork shoulder and a truly unique dining experience.

As a regular walker along the Gyeongui Line Forest Path, I've always had my eye on a particular aged meat shop. Its facade practically screams, "I'm a restaurant!" with an inimitable vibe that rules the woods. That place is Kim Sook Sung Daheung Main Branch (김숙성 대흥본점), and it's famous for its whopping 2-centimeter thick pork shoulder.

The striking facade of Kim Sook Sung Daheung Main Branch

The Vibe: Bustling and Authentic

Located in front of Seogang University, Kim Sook Sung is seriously in business. The store is always crowded, a testament to its popularity and the quality of its aged meats. It's a place where you can truly feel the energy of a beloved local eatery.

The bustling interior of Kim Sook Sung

The Menu: A Feast of Aged Pork

Kim Sook Sung specializes in aged pork, particularly their signature 2CM thick pork shoulder. While buttercup pork belly is all the rage, today we opted for the buttercup pork chops. The menu is extensive, but the set menus offer great value.

We went for the Kim Sook Sung Special (550 grams of pork chop), Seasoned Crab Jjangbap (양념게장밥), a Real Apple Mango Highball, and a Kelly beer.

A mouth-watering spread of aged pork and side dishes

The 2CM Pork Shoulder

This is the kind of pork you see on YouTube – thick, juicy, and incredibly flavorful. At first, you'll only be grilling meat, but don't worry, the staff are expert grillers who will cook your meat to perfection. The Jirisan black pork, with its unique shaving marks, was incredibly chewy and delicious.

Close-up of the thick, juicy pork shoulder

Seasoned Crab Jjangbap

This dish is a fantastic collaboration with the meat. It adds a sweet and savory kick that perfectly complements the rich flavor of the pork, especially when the meat might feel a bit boring on its own. It's responsible for the sweetness of the meat, which can be a bit boring.

The delicious Seasoned Crab Jjangbap

Apple Mango Highball & Kelly Beer

The Apple Mango Highball was incredibly delicious and refreshing. Paired with the coolest Kelly beer, it made for a perfect evening.

Refreshing Apple Mango Highball and Kelly Beer

The Sides: A Symphony of Flavors

The side dishes at Kim Sook Sung are a true highlight. The Mukgeunji (aged kimchi) and buttercup are a match made in heaven. The scallion kimchi, seasoned crab paste, and myeonginamul (pickled wild garlic leaves) all harmonize perfectly with the meat. The potato mushrooms add another layer of texture and flavor.

A beautiful spread of side dishes complementing the meat

It's a place where everything comes together in perfect harmony, making for a truly satisfying meal. You'll leave feeling much better after eating such delicious meat at Kim Sook Sung Daheung Main Branch.

Your Quick Guide to Kim Sook Sung Daheung Main Branch

Name: Kim Sook Sung Daheung Main Branch (김숙성 대흥본점)
Address: 서울 마포구 광성로6길 14 1F
How to Get There: Located in front of Seogang University, near Daeheung Station and Gyeongui Line Forest Road. Use Google Maps for precise directions.
Hours: Weekdays 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM; Weekends 1:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Contact: 0507-1490-1666

A Local's Guide: 3 Ways to Explore Daheung & Mapo Area

After indulging in the finest aged pork, explore the charming Daheung and Mapo area with these curated courses.

Course 1: A Cozy Walk with Aged Meats

Daeheung Kimsuksung: Start your walk with a casual neighborhood atmosphere and delicious aged meat.
Mangwon Market Alley Stroll: Experience the small daily life of the neighborhood by strolling through the alleyways of the nearby Mangwon Market.
Cafe 'Onhwa' (온화): A hidden neighborhood cafe where you can enjoy drip coffee made by the owner and relax by the window.

Course 2: Exploring the Hipster Sensibility in the Alleys of Daheung-dong

Daheung Kim Sookseong: Fuel up with a hearty meal.
'May Bell' (메이벨): A hidden small bookstore in the alley where you can browse through books.
'Alley Coffee' (골목커피): A specialty cafe nearby with a unique flavor of coffee beans. These unpretentious spaces offer a real hipster vibe.

Course 3: A Leisurely Stroll Along the Hangang River with Nature and History

Daheung Kim Sookseong: Start your day here.
Han River Park at the north end of Seogang Bridge (서강대교 북단 한강공원): A 15-minute walk from the meat restaurant, offering healing nature in the city center.
Yeonnam-dong 'Bamdokebi Night Market' (밤도깨비 야시장): (Weekends only) Stop by for local flavors and small handicrafts. A stroll along the Han River and through the market will pass the time.

These routes are designed to help you discover the hidden charms of the neighborhood. We recommend you come and experience it!