Nanchun Restaurant: Spicy Pork Tail & Heukdwaeji Pork Noodle Soup Near Hyeopjae Beach in Jeju Korea
One of the best parts of traveling in Jeju Korea is exploring the local food scene. Among the island’s many beaches, Hyeopjae Beach is especially famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sand. After enjoying the scenery, a warm and hearty meal feels just right.
During my trip, I visited Nanchun Restaurant, a well-known spot near Hyeopjae Beach specializing in pork noodle soup. What makes it special is their two distinct styles: the Spicy Pork Tail Noodle Soup and the Spicy Heukdwaeji (Jeju Black Pork) Noodle Soup. Both dishes had unique flavors, and I had the chance to try them side by side. Here’s my honest review.
1. Nanchun Restaurant near Hyeopjae Beach
Located just a 10-minute walk from Hyeopjae Beach, Nanchun Restaurant is a cozy noodle house perfect for a quick stop after a seaside stroll. The name Nanchun (暖春) means “warm spring,” symbolizing their hope to offer travelers a comforting space that feels like springtime warmth even on a foreign journey.
The restaurant specializes in 100% Jeju black pork dishes, particularly pork noodle soup and gukbap (rice soup). They take pride in their broth: a rich, traditional pork bone stock and an all-natural spicy white bone broth with no artificial seasonings. Depending on your mood, you can choose between a mild, clean flavor or a fiery, spicy kick.
Details
- Address: 496 Hallim-ro, Hallim-eup, Jeju City, Jeju Korea
- Hours: 09:00 – 16:00 (last order 15:30)
- Closed: Every Thursday
- Parking: Small public lot across the street
- Public Transport: From Jeju Airport, take bus #102 or #202 → get off at Ongpoli Stop → 1-minute walk
Tip: Because the restaurant is small, it can feel crowded at peak lunchtime (12:00–1:30). I recommend visiting slightly earlier or later to avoid the rush. When I went, there was no waiting line.
2. The Story of Jeju Pork Noodle Soup
To truly appreciate the dishes at Nanchun Restaurant, it helps to know a bit of history.
- Origins: Jeju’s gogi guksu (pork noodle soup) became popular after the Korean War, when flour noodles were widely introduced. Families would boil pork for special occasions, then serve the broth with noodles and sliced meat. By the 1970s, it became a common dish for large gatherings.
- The Role of Black Pork: Jeju’s native black pigs are prized for their balance of lean meat and fat, giving the broth a rich, savory flavor.
- Why Tourists Love It: It’s a simple yet filling dish—meat and noodles in one bowl—that’s affordable and easy to enjoy after a day of sightseeing.
3. What I Ate at Nanchun Restaurant
Spicy Pork Tail Noodle Soup (Gochu Donkkori Guksu)
This was the first dish I tried, and it definitely stood out.
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Broth: Marked on the menu as “Shin Ramyun Red level spicy”—and yes, it was really that spicy! The heat was intense but layered with umami, so I couldn’t stop eating.
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Meat: Pork tail pieces added a chewy, gelatinous texture, similar to Korean jokbal (braised pig’s feet).
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Why Try It: If you enjoy bold flavors and want a dish that locals also love, this spicy noodle soup will hit the spot.
Spicy Heukdwaeji Pork Noodle Soup
The second bowl I ordered was the Spicy Black Pork Noodle Soup, which was a bit less fiery but equally satisfying.
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Broth: Deep pork bone flavor with a clean spicy edge—about the level of regular Shin Ramyun. It was hearty without being greasy.
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Meat: Generous slices of tender Jeju black pork, not dry at all, made the dish extra filling.
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Why Try It: If you want the authentic Jeju pork noodle soup experience but with a little spice to wake up your taste buds, this is a great choice. Next time, I’m planning to try their heukdwaeji dombe gogi (traditional boiled pork slices) as well.
4. Atmosphere & Service
The restaurant is simple and clean, with a homey, down-to-earth vibe. It’s suitable for solo travelers, couples, and families alike. A self-service station provides side dishes and utensils, and before the meal, you’re served a refreshing cup of cheonggyul tea (Jeju citrus tea), which really whets the appetite.
The staff were also incredibly friendly, making the meal feel even warmer and more welcoming.
5. Why Nanchun Restaurant Is Worth a Visit
- Convenient Location: Just minutes from Hyeopjae Beach—ideal for travelers.
- Unique Menu: Rare to find both pork tail noodles and Jeju black pork noodles at one place.
- Hearty Portions: A single bowl is enough to fill you up, making it great value for money.
Final Thoughts: Best Pork Noodle Soup Near Hyeopjae Beach in Jeju Korea
If you’re visiting Hyeopjae Beach in Jeju Korea, don’t miss out on Nanchun Restaurant. I tried both the Spicy Pork Tail Noodle Soup and the Spicy Black Pork Noodle Soup, and each had its own charm:
- Craving something bold and chewy? Go for the Pork Tail Noodle Soup.
- Prefer hearty but less fiery flavors? The Black Pork Noodle Soup is the way to go.
A meal at Nanchun Restaurant is more than just food—it’s a taste of Jeju’s culture and warmth. After a day by the sea, nothing feels better than a steaming bowl of pork noodle soup to complete your trip.
All images are © wstoryst or licensed from Freepik Premium. All rights reserved.
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