[Samgakjeong] Charcoal-Grilled Pork near Samgakji Station—Old-School Vibes & Fun Cuts Like Mosori and Gaori

If you’re looking for a place near Samgakji Station in Yongsan-gu, Seoul where you can truly enjoy pork cut by cut, I recommend “Samgakjeong.”

The charm starts right from the menu. You’ll see unfamiliar-sounding cuts like mosori, gaori, and igyeopsal—but don’t worry, they’re not as complicated as they sound:

• Mosori: pork jowl (hangjeongsal)

• Gaori: a cut between the skin and the loin

• Igyeopsal: pork neck/back neck cut

In other words, the names may be new, but they’re essentially a lineup of seriously delicious parts.

The key point at Samgakjeong is comparing the different textures and flavors of each cut. The pork is grilled over charcoal briquettes, which adds a subtle smoky aroma you don’t find as often these days. Combined with the restaurant’s old-school, no-frills atmosphere, it has a unique charm that’s getting harder to come by in Seoul.

They also serve a house soy-based dipping sauce. Try dipping a perfectly grilled piece of meat into it just once—the savory balance and umami really pop.

One interesting detail: they say the butcher shop they source from can change depending on the quality of the meat that day. So the flavor may vary a bit from visit to visit—but you can also take it as a sign that they’re careful about selecting good-quality meat.

If you’re drinking, the naejang-tang (offal soup) is also worth ordering. It’s bold and strongly seasoned—exactly the kind of punchy soup that pairs perfectly with alcohol.