In Seongsu-dong, Seoul — a neighborhood where a new hot spot seems to open on every block — a distinctive version of gamjatang is getting attention. Familiar yet refreshed with unexpected ingredients and cooking techniques, this bowl promises to stand out when it's featured on a TV segment.
'Live Today' airs weekdays at 6 p.m. and covers a wide mix of stories — from current-affairs segments that explore incidents and issues, to moving human-interest pieces, and food reports that draw evening viewers' attention.
On April 7, Live Today will run segments including 'All of Korea,' 'Quirky Korea,' 'TODAY 24,' and 'UDT.'
The episode will feature Maetdol Gamjatang, located in Seongdong-gu, Seoul. In recent years, Seongsu-dong has emerged as a hotspot where cafes, restaurants, and cultural venues blend, attracting young crowds and a diverse stream of visitors. Former factory zones have been reborn as quirky shops and eateries, creating a vibe where tradition and trend meet.
Maetdol Gamjatang stands out in the neighborhood, serving gamjatang alongside spicy braised pork bones and earthen-pot bibimbap. What really gets people talking is the restaurant's broth: finely ground soybeans are added and simmered into the stock. While traditional gamjatang leans on bold, spicy flavors, this version brings in the nutty, creamy notes of soybeans for a milder, more nuanced depth.
Soybeans are high in protein and fiber; they contribute a toasty flavor and smooth the broth's texture. Soups made with soy tend to feel gentle on the stomach, so using soy in gamjatang — though unusual — helps shift the dish from overtly intense to cleaner, more balanced comfort food.
On Naver, visitors left comments like: "It was my first time trying gamjatang made with soybeans — it settled my stomach and was so delicious. I kept spooning the broth because it tasted so good. The broth is smoother and creamier than the gamjatang I know — super nutty. I highly recommend it if you prefer healthier, savory dishes over spicy ones. A healthy, satisfying meal. The broth made from ground soybeans is rich and nutty — insanely good. It's perfect if you finish with fried rice."
Maetdol Gamjatang is open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. On Saturdays it opens at 11 a.m., and it is closed every Sunday. It's a good idea to check hours before you go.
This take on gamjatang adds a special ingredient to a familiar dish, and paired with Seongsu-dong’s distinctive scene, it makes for an intriguing taste to be revealed on the show. If you're craving a warm spoonful and want a different spin on gamjatang, tune in. The broadcast will also spotlight other Seongdong-gu favorites like Obok Tteokjip and Seongsu AGU.
