📍 Korean Restaurants That Went Viral Overnight Thanks to K-Pop Stars

G-Dragon dinning in Dongmyo Galbi Restaurant in an MBC reality show

K-Pop idols wield immense influence, not only in music but also in food culture. Thanks to their recommendations, several restaurants in Seoul have transformed into must-visit spots for both fans and food lovers.

🔥 Dongmyo Galbi: A BBQ Hotspot Endorsed by G-Dragon

Located near Dongmyo Flea Market, Dongmyo Galbi has seen an explosion in popularity after G-Dragon dined there with comedian Jeong Hyung Don on an MBC reality show in February.

This authentic Korean BBQ restaurant serves a variety of grilled meats, including:
✔ Beef cuts
✔ Marinated pork belly
✔ Korean-style ribs

Beyond its meaty delights, the restaurant offers classic Korean side dishes, such as bibimbap (Korean mixed rice) and hearty stews, all in a traditional and cozy setting.

🍻 Banggo Pocha: G-Dragon’s Go-To Street Food Spot

Banggo Pocha seafood

G-Dragon also introduced his fans to Banggo Pocha, a hidden gem in Hannam-dong, known for its pojangmacha-style (tented street stalls) dining experience.

This spot is also a favorite of comedian Cho Sae Ho, thanks to its extensive menu, featuring:
✅ Seasonal seafood – oysters, yellowtail, dried herring
✅ Popular street food – tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), yukhoe (Korean-style beef tartare)

With its laid-back vibe and affordable menu, Banggo Pocha has become a top destination for K-Pop fans looking to dine like their idols.

🔥 Doyoung’s Favorite: The Spicy Rice Cake Cart Near Norunsan Market

Doyoung (NCT) shares his favorite food

Doyoung (NCT) is known for his love of food, and his recommendations have a major impact.

During an MBC reality show, he introduced his go-to tteokbokki (spicy rice cake) cart near Norunsan Market in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul. The stall also serves:
🍢 Eomuk (fish cakes)
🍟 Crispy fries

Following his endorsement, the vendor launched a special “Doyoung Set”, featuring the exact meal he ordered—drawing even more fans eager to try the idol-approved dish.

🥩 Dongdaemun Gopchang: NCT’s Go-To Spot Since 2019

Another must-visit restaurant for NCT fans is Dongdaemun Gopchang, a popular local joint near Norunsan Market.

Doyoung shared that he and his fellow NCT members have been regulars since 2019, indulging in:
✔ Dwaeji gopchang (grilled pork intestines)
✔ Dakbokkeumtang (spicy braised chicken)
✔ Fresh crab and chicken dishes

Its authentic flavors and long-standing reputation among locals make this restaurant a prime spot for food lovers and NCT fans alike.

🌮 Tipsy Taco: The K-Pop-Approved Korean-Mexican Fusion

Yuna (ITZY) sharing her favorite Mexico restaurant

A Mexican restaurant in Haebangchon, Tipsy Taco, became a viral sensation after Yuna (ITZY) featured it on ITZY’s YouTube channel.

Located inside Shinheung Market, this spot specializes in Korean-inspired Mexican dishes, including:
🌮 Fusion tacos – featuring grilled beef, fermented chili sauce, and Korean bean paste
🧀 Cheesy nachos with guacamole

Following Yuna’s shoutout, Tipsy Taco experienced a massive surge in customers, eager to taste its unique blend of Korean-Mexican flavors.

✨ K-Pop Power: From Local Eateries to Global Hotspots

From traditional BBQ joints to fusion eateries, these restaurants have experienced a remarkable transformation, all thanks to K-Pop idols and their dedicated fanbase.

For those visiting Seoul, these spots offer more than just delicious food—they provide a one-of-a-kind experience to dine like a K-Pop star!

Reference: koreantimes, scmp, vnexpress

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