Dongdaemun Grilled Fish Alley is a traditional food street in Jongno, Seoul, known for its charcoal-grilled fish and small, old-fashioned restaurants. It is a good place to enjoy a simple Korean meal with grilled fish, steamed rice, and side dishes while exploring Dongdaemun and nearby markets.
What to Eat
- Grilled Mackerel (Godeungeo-gui): A popular choice with savory flavor, crisp skin, and tender flesh.
- Grilled Spanish Mackerel (Samchi-gui): Mild in flavor and usually moist inside.
- Grilled Hairtail (Galchi-gui): Delicate fish with soft flesh. Watch out for fine bones.
- Grilled Yellow Croaker (Jogi-gui): A smaller fish with a savory taste, often served with rice and Korean side dishes.
Most meals include steamed rice and side dishes such as kimchi or seasoned vegetables. Some restaurants also offer soup or stew.
Price, Portions & How to Eat
| Item | Practical Guide |
|---|---|
| Price | Budget approximately ₩10,000–₩20,000 per person; check current menu prices |
| Portion | Usually one fish portion with rice and side dishes |
| Minimum order | Varies by restaurant; some may require one fish meal per person |
| Best time | Lunch, although popular restaurants can be busy |
How to eat grilled fish
- Remove the fish bones carefully before eating.
- Pair a piece of fish with steamed rice.
- Add kimchi or another side dish for a balanced bite.
- If dining with friends, ask whether the restaurant offers an assorted fish set.
Some restaurants grill fish over charcoal or briquettes to create a smoky aroma and crisp surface.
A Short History
The alley began taking shape around 1979, as grilled-fish restaurants gradually gathered in the area. They cooked mackerel, Spanish mackerel, and yellow croaker over briquette fires.
Nearby garment and wholesale-market workers helped make the street a popular place for hearty meals. Today, the alley retains its traditional character, with smoky grills, small restaurants, and simple Korean fish-and-rice meals.
How to Get There
Address: 5 Jongno 40-ga-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
The alley is near Dongdaemun Station and the Jongno 5-ga market area.
By Subway
Dongdaemun Station (동대문역) — Lines 1 and 4
- Take Seoul Subway Line 1 or Line 4 to Dongdaemun Station.
- Follow the signs for Exit 9.
- Leave the station and walk toward Jongno 40-ga-gil.
- Continue approximately 288 meters, or about 4–5 minutes on foot, to the alley area.
The final walking distance may vary depending on which restaurant you visit.
By Bus
Jongno 6-ga (종로6가), stop 01-210
This bus stop is close to the grilled-fish alley area, approximately 1–2 minutes on foot according to local heritage information.
Bus routes listed for the stop include:
- 201
- 2014
- 7212
These are route references, not live arrival information. Bus routes and stop locations can change, so confirm your bus direction and current service before boarding.
Bus travel tip: Search your navigation app for 종로6가 01-210 or 동대문 생선구이골목. From the bus stop, walk toward Jongno 40-ga-gil and look for the row of small grilled-fish restaurants.
Before You Visit
Restaurant hours, menu prices, and minimum orders vary by shop. Lunchtime can be busy, so allow extra time if you are visiting during the lunch rush.