Busan’s supposed to be deep in monsoon season right now, but this year the rain hasn’t really shown up — and with temps already over 30°C, summer fatigue is already kicking in. Ha!
Today’s pick: “Nampo Samgyetang” in Busan’s Nampo area.
※ There’s also a Haeundae branch.
★ About Samgyetang ★
It’s piping-hot, so people often assume it’s a winter dish — but the highly nutritious Samgyetang is actually considered a summer health food in Korea. It’s eaten in summer specifically to fight heat fatigue — a hot-weather restorative classic.
Korea even has three designated days each summer — called “Boknal (복날)” — when people traditionally eat Samgyetang. Company cafeterias often serve it on these days.
This shop near Nampo Station on Metro Line 1 is a popular Samgyetang spot.
I visited at noon on a Sunday and the place was already full, with a line just starting to form outside.
★ Menu as of May 2026 ★
I went with the basic Samgyetang.
Banchan looks like this.
Both the kkakdugi (radish kimchi) and the chicken-gizzard side are excellent.
One thing Samgyetang shops often serve that I personally love is quick-pickled fresh kimchi.
The Korean name for it is “겉절이 (Geotjeori)”.
And Samgyetang isn’t really complete without ginseng wine (insamju) on the side.
Since the place was packed, I waited about 15 minutes after ordering before the Samgyetang arrived.
Service in Korea is usually lightning-fast, so a 15-minute food wait feels noticeably long.
Which means: they’re slammed because the food is that good.
Before you really dig in, season the broth with salt to taste.
Drop the noodles into the hot pot before the broth cools — that’s when they’re best.
The color of the broth gives it away: incredibly concentrated umami.
Maybe a touch on the garlicky side — in a good way.
The chicken is tender with no off-flavors — a really excellent Samgyetang.
By the time I left, the line had reached out the front door.
Samgyetang really does give you a major energy boost, so it’s a great choice for when travel fatigue starts to hit.
If you’re hunting for Samgyetang in Nampo, this is the spot.
↓ Map, reviews, and shop details below ↓
Our rating: ★★★★★
Nampo Samgyetang — reviews & access
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