Hanilkwan
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Restaurant |
| Founded | 1939 in Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea |
| Founder | Shin U-gyeong |
| Headquarters | Apgujeong-dong, Gangnam District, Seoul , South Korea |
Area served | Seoul, South Korea |
Key people | Kim Yi-suk, Kim Eun-suk |
| Products | Korean cuisine (bulgogi, galbi, galbi-tang, naengmyeon, yukgaejang, bibimbap) |
| Website | www |
Hanilkwan () stands as a venerable Korean dining establishment, originating in 1939 within Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea. Ranking as the seventh oldest continuously operating eatery in Seoul, it is renowned for its marinated meat specialties, notably bulgogi and galbi.
This family-run enterprise has endured through significant historical periods including the Japanese colonial period, the Korean War, and the nation’s swift economic development. In 2017, it earned recognition as a Bib Gourmand restaurant by the Michelin Guide.
Description
Hanilkwan's menu centers on classic Korean cuisine, featuring dishes such as galbi, bulgogi, galbi-tang, naengmyeon, yukgaejang, and bibimbap, all served alongside an assortment of traditional side dishes (banchan).
History
The establishment was founded in 1939 by Shin U-gyeong (), initially named Hwaseonok (), reflecting Japanese influences of the era. Following Korea’s liberation in 1945, the restaurant adopted the name Hanilgwan. During the 1950–1953 Korean War, operations were temporarily moved to Busan before returning to its original location in Jongno 1-ga, Seoul after the armistice.
In its early years, bulgogi was not the primary focus; advertising in the 1950s emphasized sukiyaki. Subsequently, Hanilkwan innovated by creating a specialized heating plate for bulgogi and introduced a soup variant known as bulgogi guk (). Expansion continued through the 1960s with new branches including one in Myeong-dong, and the brand secured its trademark registration in 1982.
Succession of ownership transitioned from founder Shin U-gyeong to her daughter Gil Sun-jeong (), followed by Gil’s daughters Kim Yi-suk () and Kim Eun-suk (). In 2008, due to redevelopment in Jongno, Hanilkwan relocated its flagship outlet to Apgujeong-dong, Gangnam District, where it has continued to grow.
In recognition of its cultural importance and culinary excellence, Hanilkwan was honored as a Seoul Future Heritage site in 2013.
External links
- Official website (Korean)