Jinjak Kakii: Unearthing Seoul's Biggest Oysters in Bukchon Hanok Village 🦪
Jinjak Kakii: Unearthing Seoul's Biggest Oysters in Bukchon Hanok Village 🦪
Could you imagine finding some of the biggest, freshest oysters right in the heart of Seoul? Prepare to be amazed!
Last Updated on September 23, 2025 Did I find the largest oysters in Seoul? I think I did! While seafood is usually something I look for when I’m visiting the coasts of Korea, when presented with oysters, my husband will tell you I can’t pass them up. Jinjak Kakii (진작 카키), a restaurant serving some of the biggest, freshest oysters I’ve ever eaten, is now on my list for where to eat in the Bukchon Hanok Village and it should be on yours too! On the quieter side of the touristy downtown area of Seoul, it is near two other favorites, Salt House Deli and London Bagel Museum. Jinjak Kakii has oysters from Tongyeong, Korea and combined with the dark, moody interior, it’s definitely a great date spot in Seoul. Looking for the best oyster spot in Seoul? Jinjak Kakii should be on your radar: (This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a certain percentage of a sale if you purchase after clicking at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.)
Table of Contents
Basic Info:
Address: 38 Changdeokgung 1-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울 종로구 창덕궁1길 38 진작카키 안국점)
Hours: Monday – Friday: 11:30am ~ Midnight (Break time: 3:00pm ~ 5:00pm); Saturday – Sunday: 11:30am ~ Midnight
Reservations: Recommended especially for the weekend, but it was also busy on a weekday when I went. You can make a reservation via Creatrip.
Description: "A beautifully composed flat lay shot of a modern, dark wooden table at Jinjak Kakii, featuring several gleaming, large fresh oysters on a bed of ice, with a small dish of lemon wedges and a subtle, blurred background of a cozy restaurant interior. The lighting is warm and inviting."
A Perfect Date Night Spot: The Ambiance
Stepping into Jinjak Kakii, I immediately felt a sense of calm wash over me. The restaurant is designed with a dark, modern interior that feels both sophisticated and incredibly cozy. It’s quiet enough for intimate conversation, with just the right touch of romance, making it a truly exceptional date night spot in Seoul. Between the promise of those huge oysters and the moody ambiance, it’s a nice little getaway from Seoul’s usual hustle and bustle. The staff were also professional and attentive, happy to explain the menu and make us feel completely at home. You know, sometimes you just need a place that feels a bit special, a bit removed from the everyday, and Jinjak Kakii totally nails it.
The Star of the Show: Fresh Shucked Tongyeong Oysters
The definitive star of the show, I was absolutely stunned by how huge the oysters were when they arrived at our table. Seriously, as an oyster connoisseur of sorts, these were definitely the largest oysters I’ve ever eaten. Honestly, I wasn’t sure I could eat them in one bite… but I’ll have you know you can indeed. The oysters come from Tongyeong, which is basically the capital of oysters in Korea, and they're shucked to order, so you get that pure, clean, briny taste of the ocean. If I wasn't polite, I probably wouldn’t have shared a single one. Just sayin'.
Description: "A close-up, dynamic shot of a hand (feminine, mid-30s) holding a single, exceptionally large, glistening fresh oyster with a squeeze of lemon over it, against the dark, moody backdrop of Jinjak Kakii restaurant. The oyster looks incredibly plump and juicy, ready to be eaten. Realistic photo style."
Fun Fact: South Korea is the second-largest oyster producer in the world after China and around 80% of Korean oysters come from Tongyeong, a coastal city on the southern coast. From there, they’re exported globally to the US, Japan, Canada, Hong Kong, and even the EU.
Beyond Oysters: Creative Korean-Inspired Dishes
Sweet Pumpkin Gnocchi
We also tried the Sweet Pumpkin Gnocchi, which was a delightful Korean twist on a classic. It was topped with a rich sweet pumpkin puree and crispy pumpkin chips. This dish was creamy and comforting, and just a little unexpected. The gnocchi seemed to have been pan-fried for a crispier exterior. I usually boil my gnocchi, so the texture is softer and chewier, which means this dish wasn’t exactly what I expected, but it was absolutely delicious in its own right.
Giant Futomaki Roll
Then there was the Giant Futomaki Roll. This oversized sushi roll is packed with eel, shrimp, tempura, burdock root, and other fresh ingredients all wrapped up in kelp. It’s far too big for one bite, but it’s honestly so much fun trying! It was a really nice seafood addition to the oysters, bringing a different texture and flavor profile to the meal.
Description: "A still life composition featuring a creamy bowl of Sweet Pumpkin Gnocchi with crispy pumpkin chips on top, alongside a vibrant, oversized Giant Futomaki Roll filled with various ingredients, placed on a dark, textured plate. The setting is a chic restaurant table with subtle, artistic lighting."
Sip & Savor: Our Drink Discoveries
I was really excited to see Soola Gukhwaju on the menu. Soola Gukhwaju is a yakju (traditional Korean clear rice wine) made from glutinous rice and chrysanthemum flowers. Ever since writing about the traditional food that one should eat in every month of the year in Korea, I’ve been on the lookout for this particular drink. This bottle from Soolawon was sweet yet dry, and paired wonderfully with our seafood dishes. Historically, it was believed that drinking chrysanthemum liquor, with its fragrant aroma and fine color during the Mid-Autumn Festival, would ensure a long and healthy life. So, of course, we thoroughly enjoyed the bottle in honor of the season! They also have a great menu of other interesting Korean alcoholic options as well as various wines.
Description: "An elegant shot of a bottle of Soola Gukhwaju with its label clearly visible, standing next to two small, traditional Korean ceramic cups, on a dimly lit bar counter or table. There are delicate chrysanthemum flowers subtly placed in the background, hinting at the drink's ingredients."
If you’re in the Anguk/Bukchon area of Seoul and feel that oyster urge, you’ll definitely want to keep Jinjak Kakii in mind. They truly have creative Korean-inspired dishes and a great atmosphere for any occasion, especially a special date. Check it out, you won't be disappointed!
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Your Questions Answered about Jinjak Kakii
Yes, it's highly recommended, especially if you plan to visit on a weekend. Even on weekdays, Jinjak Kakii can get quite busy, as I experienced myself. You can make a reservation through platforms like Creatrip to ensure you get a table.
Jinjak Kakii stands out for its exceptionally large and fresh oysters sourced directly from Tongyeong, Korea's renowned oyster capital. They are shucked to order, ensuring a pristine, briny taste of the ocean that truly elevates the dining experience. Their impressive size is something I haven't found anywhere else in Seoul.
Absolutely! With its dark, modern, yet cozy interior and a quiet ambiance perfect for conversation, Jinjak Kakii creates a romantic and intimate setting. The exquisite food, especially the fresh oysters and creative dishes, further enhance the experience, making it an ideal choice for a memorable date night in Seoul.
Craving the Best Oysters in Seoul? Your Next Date Night Awaits!
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