A Pilgrimage to the Hometown of Jimin and Jungkook
For an ARMY, traveling to Busan is not just another vacation; it is a heartfelt pilgrimage to the roots of Jimin and Jungkook. This vibrant coastal city offers a stunning blend of ocean views, bustling markets, and a deeply rooted culinary culture, where you can almost feel the members’ childhood memories woven into the salty sea breeze.
Busan is fiercely proud of its local soul food, most notably Dwaeji Gukbap (pork rice soup) and Milmyeon (wheat noodles). These iconic dishes offer pure comfort, rich flavors, and a genuine taste of the city’s history. Whenever I touch down in this magnificent city, seeking out these authentic local eateries is always my absolute first priority—it is the ultimate way for international fans to truly connect with the hometown energy of the members.
Although Busan’s culinary heritage is magnificent, the bold spices and unfamiliar ingredients can sometimes feel overwhelming for global travelers. Understanding both the Western palate and the local food scene, I’ve curated a foolproof guide tailored to diverse preferences. From finding the perfect, comforting bowl of local soul food to navigating mindful dietary options, this guide ensures a seamless, unforgettable journey into the heart of Busan’s flavors. Prepare your itinerary, because we are diving deep into the ultimate Busan food tour for ARMY.
RM’s Legendary Two-Bowl Stop: Dongnae Milmyeon
If there is one absolute must-visit spot for any ARMY traveling to Busan, it is the legendary Dongnae Milmyeon main branch. Located at 47 Myeongnyun-ro in Dongnae-gu, this massive restaurant has become a sacred site for fans. Why? Because BTS leader RM (Kim Namjoon) visited this exact location and famously devoured two entire bowls of their signature noodles.
Approaching the building, you will immediately spot the BTS banner hanging proudly next to the exterior sign. The owners have wonderfully preserved the exact seat where RM sat, transforming it into a dedicated photo zone complete with a panel. It is an incredible experience to sit in that very spot, taking in the bustling atmosphere of the restaurant.
The dining experience here is phenomenal. As soon as you sit down, you are served a kettle of warm, savory broth that perfectly preps your stomach. The noodles themselves are thin, chewy, and served in massive portions. The Mul-milmyeon (water wheat noodles) comes with icy, refreshing slushy broth and savory meat garnishes, while the Bibim-milmyeon (spicy mixed wheat noodles) delivers a fiercely addictive, slightly provocative spicy and salty kick. My personal recommendation? You absolutely must order the giant Wang-mandu (king dumplings) to pair with your noodles. The juicy pork filling of the dumplings balances the spicy tang of the noodles flawlessly. Plus, the restaurant stays open until the early hours of the morning, making it a perfect late-night stop.
The Soul Food of Busan: Must-Try Dwaeji Gukbap (Pork Rice Soup)
You simply cannot claim you have been to Busan without eating a steaming bowl of Dwaeji Gukbap. It is the definitive comfort food of the city, and undoubtedly a dish that Jimin and Jungkook grew up eating. Here is a curated list of the best local pork soup spots to add to your ARMY itinerary:
- Yeongdong Milmyeon & Dwaeji Gukbap: Located at 12 Jungang-daero 209beon-gil in Dong-gu, this is the ultimate hack for tourists on a tight schedule. They serve both stellar milmyeon and rich pork soup under one roof. It is incredibly convenient and incredibly delicious.
- Bonjeon Dwaeji Gukbap: Found at 3-8 Jungang-daero 214beon-gil in Dong-gu, this is a heavy hitter loved equally by locals and tourists. The broth is deep, and the meat is exceptionally tender.
- Hapcheon Illyu Dwaeji Gukbap: Situated at 34 Gwangjang-ro in Sasang-gu, this spot is famous for its profoundly deep and rich pork broth. It is a hearty meal that will keep you energized for a full day of sightseeing.
- Geukdong Dwaeji Gukbap: Located at 17 Dalmaji-gil 62beon-gil in Haeundae-gu. After taking a walk along the famous Haeundae beach, this is the perfect place to warm up.
- Yeongjin Dwaeji Gukbap (Main Branch): Located at 39 Hasinbeonyeong-ro 157beon-gil in Saha-gu, known for its pristine quality and loyal local following.
Essential Local Milmyeon Spots Beyond the Footsteps
While Dongnae Milmyeon is the ultimate ARMY destination thanks to RM, Busan is overflowing with incredible milmyeon specialty shops that are worth your time. Here are some top-tier recommendations from the locals:
| Restaurant Name | Location Address | Vibe & Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Choryang Milmyeon | 225 Jungang-daero, Dong-gu | Very popular, accessible from the station, great dumplings |
| Seomyeon Milmyeon | Eos Plaza, 25 Seojeon-ro, Busanjin-gu | Located in the bustling shopping district, perfect lunch spot |
| Haeundae Gaya Milmyeon | 27 Jwadongsunhwan-ro, Haeundae-gu | Great to visit while exploring the Haeundae area |
| Somunnan Gaya Milmyeon | 28 Geojesijang-ro 14beon-gil, Yeonje-gu | A hidden gem loved by true Busan locals |
Whether you are sipping the icy broth of milmyeon or warming your soul with a hearty bowl of pork soup, every bite in Busan connects you closer to the culture that shaped some of our favorite artists.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What exactly is Dwaeji Gukbap?
A: Dwaeji Gukbap is a traditional Korean soup made by boiling pork bones for hours to create a rich, milky broth, served with sliced pork and rice.
Q2: Is Milmyeon the same as Naengmyeon?
A: They are similar, but Milmyeon is made with wheat flour noodles, whereas Naengmyeon is typically made with buckwheat or sweet potato starch, making Milmyeon slightly softer and easier to chew.
Q3: Where did RM of BTS eat Milmyeon in Busan?
A: RM visited the Dongnae Milmyeon main branch, located in Dongnae-gu, Busan.
Q4: Can I sit where RM sat at Dongnae Milmyeon?
A: Yes! The restaurant has preserved his seat and turned it into a photo zone for fans.
Q5: Is Bibim-milmyeon very spicy?
A: It has a spicy and savory kick. If you have a low tolerance for spice, you might want to order the Mul-milmyeon (water-based) instead.
Q6: Are there vegetarian options at these restaurants?
A: These specific local restaurants specialize in pork and beef broths, so strict vegetarian options are usually not available.
Q7: Do these restaurants accept foreign credit cards?
A: Yes, most established restaurants in Busan accept international Visa and Mastercard, though carrying some cash is always recommended for small purchases.
Q8: Can I eat at these places if I am traveling alone?
A: Absolutely! Dining alone is very common for dishes like Dwaeji Gukbap and Milmyeon.
Q9: What should I order at Yeongdong Milmyeon & Dwaeji Gukbap?
A: It is highly recommended to try both! You can get a bowl of pork soup and share a bowl of milmyeon if you are with a friend.
Q10: Are these locations close to public transit?
A: Yes, most of the recommended spots are easily accessible via the Busan Metro system or local buses.
Q11: Do I need to speak Korean to order?
A: While speaking Korean helps, many of these famous spots have menus with pictures or English translations. Pointing at pictures works perfectly fine!
Q12: What time does Dongnae Milmyeon close?
A: Dongnae Milmyeon is known for its extended hours, operating until the early hours of the morning, making it great for night owls.
Q13: What side dishes are usually served with Dwaeji Gukbap?
A: You will typically receive kimchi, kkakdugi (radish kimchi), raw garlic, peppers, onions, and garlic chives to mix directly into your soup.