Haha & Kim Jongkook’s 401 Restaurant in Seoul

Savoring Korean Pork Barbecue in the Heart of Mapo-gu

Late afternoon in Mapo-gu brings a distinct transformation to the neighborhood streets. As dusk approaches, neon signs flicker to life, and the unmistakable scent of grilled pork drifts through the alleys. Among the many eateries scattered across this vibrant district, one spot consistently draws both loyal locals and international visitors who share a love for Korean entertainment: Haha & Kim Jongkook’s 401 Restaurant (하하&김종국의 401정육식당). Co-owned by two of the most recognizable stars from the popular television entertainment program ‘Running Man’, this venue has earned a steady reputation as a go-to destination for those seeking a satisfying Korean barbecue experience in Seoul.

While celebrity-owned establishments often rely heavily on star power, this venue maintains its appeal by focusing squarely on the fundamental joys of a classic Korean meat house. The concept centers around a traditional Grilled Pork Belly restaurant, offering a comfortable atmosphere where friends, travelers, and fans can gather over tabletop grills. The energetic environment fits perfectly into Mapo-gu, a area long celebrated for its lively dining culture and late-night food scenes.

The Celebrity Connection: ‘Running Man’ Favorites

For fans of Korean television, the names Haha and Kim Jongkook immediately bring to mind years of laughter and iconic moments from ‘Running Man’. Their long-standing camaraderie on screen translates naturally into this joint restaurant venture. Seeing their names associated with the establishment adds an extra layer of excitement for visitors who have followed their careers on television screen around the world.

Despite the high-profile owners, the restaurant remains grounded as an approachable neighborhood meat spot. The interior captures the unpretentious, welcoming feel typical of Korean butcher-style restaurants (jeongyuk sikdang). It is designed for hearty meals, lively conversations, and shared dishes, making it an ideal gathering place whether you are wrapping up a day of sightseeing or starting an evening out in western Seoul.

Understanding the Menu: Premium Cuts and Delicacies

At the center of the dining experience here is a specialized focus on pork cuts and traditional specialties. The restaurant operates under the core concept of a Grilled Pork Belly establishment, but the menu extends beyond the standard cut to include popular Korean delicacies that cater to diverse palates.

Here is an overview of the key dishes offered at the restaurant:

• Grilled Pork Belly: The iconic staple of Korean barbecue, known for its rich flavor and satisfying texture when grilled to a golden finish.
• Grilled Pork Small Intestines: A favored choice for diners looking for a distinct chewy texture and deep savory profile.
• Grilled Pork Tripe: Another beloved traditional delicacy, offering a robust flavor that pairs exceptionally well with charcoal-style grilling.
• Grilled Pork Rinds: A classic finishing order in Korean barbecue culture, appreciated for its chewy consistency and crispy surface when cooked over high heat.

Whether you stick to the classic choice of pork belly or venture into traditional cuts like small intestines, tripe, and rinds, each item offers a unique texture and flavor profile that highlights different aspects of Korean barbecue tradition.

The Grill Master Experience: Staff-Serviced Cooking

One of the defining features of dining at Haha & Kim Jongkook’s 401 Restaurant is the attentive cooking service provided at every table. In many standard Korean barbecue spots, guests are expected to handle the grilling tongs themselves, which can sometimes be intimidating for first-time visitors or those unfamiliar with controlling table heat.

At this establishment, it is characterized by the fact that the staff grills the meat for customers directly at the table. Trained staff members monitor the grill, turning the pork at just the right moments to achieve an even sear while locking in juices. This hands-on service allows diners to relax, enjoy their conversation, and focus entirely on the meal without worrying about overcooking or undercooking their food. Having experienced staff manage the grill ensures that every cut of pork belly, intestine, tripe, or rind reaches its optimal texture and flavor.

The Art of the Perfect Bite: Flavors and Pairings

Korean barbecue is as much about the side dishes and sauces as it is about the meat itself. The combination of ingredients on your table creates a balance of savory, salty, crisp, and tangy notes that elevate every bite.

A standout element of the meal here is the popular combination of well-grilled Pork belly paired with distinct side items and dipping sauces provided by the house:

• Salted Anchovy Sauce: Served warm on or beside the grill, this deeply savory sauce (known in Korea as myeolchi-jeot) provides a rich, umami-packed dip that cuts through the richness of the pork belly.
• Green Onion Salad: Shredded fresh green onions tossed in a lightly spiced seasoning, offering a crisp texture and a sharp bite that cleanses the palate.
• White Radish Cabbage: Mild, crunchy pickled white radish and cabbage slices that serve as a refreshing wrapper for cooked meat, balancing the warmth and richness of the grill.

To enjoy this popular combination like a seasoned local, take a piece of well-grilled pork belly straight off the heat, lightly dip it into the bubbling Salted Anchovy Sauce, and place it atop a thin slice of White Radish Cabbage. Add a small heap of Green Onion Salad on top, fold it into a single wrap, and enjoy the harmonious blend of savory meat, salty sauce, and crisp, tangy vegetables in one bite.

Late-Night Dining Culture and Hours

Mapo-gu is famous for its round-the-clock energy, and this restaurant fits seamlessly into the neighborhood’s night-time rhythmic pacing. The establishment opens its doors in the late afternoon at 16:00 and continues serving hungry guests all the way until 02:00 the next day. This extended operating schedule makes it a versatile option whether you are planning an early dinner or looking for a late-night supper after exploring nearby attractions.

Furthermore, the venue operates with no closed days (Open all year round), providing consistent service throughout the year for locals and travelers alike regardless of holiday schedules.

How to Get There

Haha & Kim Jongkook’s 401 Restaurant is located at 23 Jandari-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul. This put it right in the heart of Mapo-gu’s dynamic commercial district, which is readily accessible via Seoul’s efficient public transportation network.

When traveling by subway, visitors can head toward the general Hongdae and Hapjeong station areas. From the major subway hubs serving Mapo-gu, Jandari-ro is a short and pleasant walk through streetscapes filled with shops, cafes, and nightlife venues. Navigating toward Jandari-ro on foot gives you a chance to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Mapo-gu before sitting down for your meal.

Tips Before You Go

To make the most of your visit to Haha & Kim Jongkook’s 401 Restaurant, keep these practical points in mind:

• Check Hours Before Visiting: While official operating hours are set from 16:00 to 02:00 the next day, open all year round, it is always wise to reconfirm current operating status before heading out, especially during public holidays.
• Use Public Transit: Parking is not available on site. Given the dense urban layout of Mapo-gu, taking the subway or a local bus is the easiest and most stress-free way to reach the location.
• Direct Contact: If you need to make inquiries directly, you can reach the restaurant by phone at +82-2-325-0805.
• Expect Peak Evening Hours: As a popular destination co-owned by famous ‘Running Man’ stars, peak dinner hours can be busy. Arriving shortly after opening at 16:00 or later in the evening can offer a more relaxed dining environment.

Whether you come as a dedicated fan of ‘Running Man’ or simply as a food lover eager to enjoy well-grilled pork belly, small intestines, and traditional sauces served right at your table, this Mapo-gu spot delivers an authentic slice of Seoul’s rich barbecue culture.

Good to Know

Hours	16:00 – 02:00 the next day
Closed	N/A (Open all year round)
Parking	Not available
Contact	+82-2-325-0805

Details above are from the Korea Tourism Organization and may change — double-check before you visit.

Location & Map

📍 23 Jandari-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul

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