The Deep Time of Euljiro, the Essence of Pyeongyang Naengmyeon at Woo Lae Oak

1946, The History of Cold Noodles Imbued in the Alleys of Euljiro (을지로)

After exiting through Exit 4 of Euljiro 4-ga Station (을지로4가역) and walking about 100 meters along a narrow alley, the bustle of the city fades away. Woo Lae Oak (우래옥) stands where you can feel the aura of an aged building. Facing the exterior of this place, which has held its spot since 1946, a sense of gravitas settles in the heart. The moment I open the door and step inside, air holding decades of time brushes against my nose. The savory scent of meat broth mixes with the murmurs of people, creating a unique scene found only here.

Pyeongyang Naengmyeon (평양냉면) might taste bland to those who are new to it, but the cold noodles at Woo Lae Oak (우래옥) are different. I realized why it has been featured in the Michelin Guide multiple times the moment I took a bite. The deep and rich broth is seasoned just enough to fill the mouth with umami. Since the heavy meat aroma takes precedence over the plain, subtle flavors, even those just starting their journey into the world of Pyeongyang Naengmyeon can easily fall for its charm.

A Gourmet Moment Satisfying the Five Senses

Once you take a seat and place your order, noodles submerged in transparent broth arrive promptly. I use chopsticks to gently loosen the buckwheat noodles and take a big slurp. As the cold broth slides down my throat, the nutty aroma of buckwheat rises through my nasal cavity. The Bulgogi (불고기), which serves as a great side dish, is also the highlight of this place. You can enjoy it with hot noodles or pair it with the sweet seasoning of the Bulgogi, and before you know it, you will feel sad to see an empty bowl. Thanks to the lively sounds of the surroundings and the warmth filling the restaurant, even though I finished a bowl of cold noodles, my heart feels warm.

Since it is a restaurant introduced countless times in the media, waiting is an inevitable rite of passage. However, the taste this historic restaurant provides is well worth the time. It is not just food to fill your stomach; it is closer to an experience of tasting the passage of time.

Small Tips to Complete Your Trip to Euljiro (을지로)

Timing is important to truly enjoy Woo Lae Oak (우래옥). It is best to visit right after opening or avoid the peak meal times, but because it is such a famous place, waiting is essential at any time of day. If that is the case, I recommend taking a slow walk through the alleys around Euljiro (을지로). The unique atmosphere of Euljiro (을지로), where old ironworks and modern cafes are mixed together, makes the walk before or after your meal even more interesting.

Cheonggyecheon (청계천) is nearby, which is perfect for digestion while listening to the sound of water after your meal. As you walk along the Cheonggyecheon (청계천) promenade at dusk, you can experience a magical moment where the complicated city suddenly feels peaceful. In this place where the old and the new of Seoul (서울) coexist, why not gift yourself a heartwarming meal today?