Seoul, South Korea - Ikseon-dong, located behind Nakwon Arcade in the heart of Seoul, has recently emerged as a new hotspot among the MZ generation (Millennials + Generation Z). This area, where tradition and modernity coexist, is captivating young people with its unique atmosphere and diverse culinary scene. In particular, the street food stalls lining the back alleys of Nakwon Arcade are gaining popularity through word-of-mouth on social media due to their affordable prices and nostalgic charm.
Ikseon-dong was originally formed as a Hanok (traditional Korean house) residential area in the 1920s, characterized by narrow alleys and old buildings. In recent years, it has undergone a transformation with trendy cafes, restaurants, and eateries that offer modern reinterpretations of traditional Korean food. From street foods like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), kimbap (seaweed rice rolls), and hotteok (sweet pancakes) to fusion Korean dishes and desserts, a variety of menus line every alley, making it a perfect food tour destination.
The street food stalls behind Nakwon Arcade especially come alive at night. Offering simple dishes to enjoy with a glass of soju, these stalls appeal to the sensibilities of the MZ generation with their low prices and unpretentious atmosphere. One visitor in their 20s said, "I often come here with friends because it's great for casually dropping by, eating delicious food, and chatting," highlighting the charm of the pojangmacha (street stalls). Furthermore, the popularity of this area is spreading online, with the hashtag '#Ikseon-dong 맛집' (Ikseon-dong 맛집 - Ikseon-dong 맛집) rapidly trending on Instagram and YouTube.
Experts attribute the popularity of Ikseon-dong and the street food stalls behind Nakwon Arcade to 'retro sensibility' and 'affordability.' They analyze that in the midst of modern consumption trends, the MZ generation is seeking spaces where they can experience nostalgia for the past while enjoying reasonable prices. Accordingly, local merchants are focusing on developing menus that reflect the tastes of young people and on SNS marketing.
The Seoul Metropolitan Government sees the popularity of Ikseon-dong as an opportunity for regional revitalization and plans to strengthen cultural content that blends tradition and modernity. As Nakwon Arcade and the alleys of Ikseon-dong establish themselves as beloved spots for the MZ generation, they are transforming into another attractive culinary travel destination in the heart of Seoul.
So, what are the popular foods and restaurants in this area that have captured the palates and preferences of young people?
'Bangida': Famous for Yukhoe Bibimbap Located at the end of an alley in Ikseon-dong, 'Bangida' is loved by young people for its modern reinterpretations of Korean dishes. Its signature dish, Yukhoe Bibimbap (15,000 KRW), boasts a deep flavor using premium Ggurisal (chuck flap tail) and is perfectly paired with the apple wine or green grape makgeolli (rice wine) served as an aperitif. Operated by Michelin 3-star chef Park Sung-yoon, this restaurant is notable not only for its taste but also for its sophisticated Hanok interior. Praised as a place that "captures both taste and atmosphere" by those in their 20s and 30s, it is considered a must-visit restaurant with inevitable waiting times.
'Le Blanseur': The Charm of French Home-Style Cooking 'Le Blanseur', where one can enjoy French home-style cooking in a Hanok, adds to the unique charm of Ikseon-dong. Its representative dishes, Galbisal Ragout Pasta and Onion Soup (7,000 KRW), have captivated the palates of young people with their tender and rich flavors. Famous as an SNS-worthy spot due to its sophisticated plating and fresh ingredients, reviews say, "You can feel the local French atmosphere in Korea." It is also a popular choice for dates and blind dates.
'Namdo Bunsik': A Rediscovery of Fusion Snack Food 'Namdo Bunsik', praised by Lee Young-ja on a TV show, enjoys unique popularity even in Ikseon-dong. Its menu, which adds a Southern Korean (Namdo) style to traditional snack foods like Siraegi Tteokbokki (radish greens rice cakes), Motnani Jumeokbap (ugly rice balls), and Napjak Mandu (flat dumplings), offers young people familiar yet new flavors. Its affordable prices and retro-inspired interior appeal to a wide age range from early 20s to 30s, and long queues are a common sight on weekends.
'Roll in Ikseon': A Sanctuary for Salmon Lovers Young people who love salmon cannot miss 'Roll in Ikseon'. Offering fresh salmon sashimi and salmon rolls at reasonable prices, this place is particularly known as a "cost-effective 맛집" among the MZ generation. Its colorful plating and casual atmosphere make it perfect for gatherings with friends or light meals, and the photos uploaded to SNS alone are enough to inspire a visit.
'Cheongsudang': A Dessert Hotspot For those who want to enjoy dessert after a meal, 'Cheongsudang' is undoubtedly popular. A cafe utilizing a traditional Hanok, its sentimental dessert menu, including Matcha Tiramisu and Black Sesame Latte, caters to the tastes of young people. Its sophisticated interior and alleyway view are major attractions for those in their 20s who enjoy taking photos, and the consensus is that it is a "must-visit place when going to Ikseon-dong."
Ikseon-dong offers young people a new experience by combining modern cuisine with the traditional space of Hanoks. However, behind its popularity lie inconveniences such as parking difficulties and crowds. The public parking lot near Nakwon Arcade is small, and vehicle access inside the alleys is restricted, so using public transportation is recommended. Nevertheless, Ikseon-dong's unique atmosphere and delicious food continue to attract young people.
In the spring of 2025, Ikseon-dong remains one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Seoul. Here, along the back alleys of Nakwon Arcade, young people are simultaneously accumulating taste, style, and memories. How about planning a special gastronomic trip to Ikseon-dong next weekend?
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