Welcome back to Kovolution!
I am your local guide.
When summer hits Korea, locals flock to the East Coast (Gangwon Province) for fresh sea air and legendary food. Today, I am taking you to Sokcho, home to a uniquely refreshing traditional dish that I guarantee will become your new summer craving: Mulhoe (λ¬Όν).
If you are a fan of sashimi, ceviche, or poke bowls, you have to try this Korean "Ice Sashimi Soup" at the city's most famous spot, Cheongchosu Mulhoe.
1. What exactly is "Mulhoe"?
The word Mul (λ¬Ό) means water, and Hoe (ν) means raw fish or sashimi.
Think of it as a vibrant, chilled soup packed with fresh seafood. It is a traditional Korean delicacy from seaside regions where incredibly fresh, raw fish is served submerged in a savory, slightly spicy, shaved ice broth.
The description might sound unique at first, but one taste and you’ll understand why locals are obsessed.
2. The Taste Experience: Sweet, Sour, and Super Cool
Mulhoe is not just spicy. It offers a complex and addictive balance of flavors.
The Broth: The base is a savory soup, heavily chilled with shaved ice. As the ice melts, it transforms into a sweet and sour broth with just a kick of Korean spice (gochujang-based).
The Texture: It is packed with various types of incredibly fresh seafood, sliced thinly like sashimi. Depending on what you order, you might get squid, flatfish, sea cucumber, or abalone. The fish has a firm, clean texture against the crunchy ice and fresh vegetables (cabbage, cucumber, scallions).
How to Eat: You must mix everything well first. The vegetables and fish should soak up that refreshing broth. Then, you can eat it as is, but the traditional way is to add either cooked rice or thin wheat noodles (somyeon) directly into the soup for a filling meal!
3. Review: Sokcho's Seafood "Factory" — Cheongchosu Mulhoe
This is not some small, hidden diner. Cheongchosu Mulhoe is a colossal, multi-story dining complex located right next to the scenic Cheongcho Lake.
The Scale: The building is so massive it almost feels like a highly efficient "seafood factory." When you arrive, you might see a waiting line system, but don't worry—the turnover is fast because they are so organized.
Modern Kovolution: The restaurant mixes traditional taste with modern efficiency. When we visited, our side dishes were actually brought to us by a friendly robot server! This modern touch in a traditional setting is a great example of Korea's culinary evolution.
Lake View: If you manage to get a window seat, you are treated
to a beautiful, open view of Cheongcho Lake while you eat.
My Top Menu Picks:
Haejeon Mulhoe (ν΄μ λ¬Όν): If you are going all in, this is the premium choice. It features a massive amount of mixed seafood, plus the star ingredients: abalone and sea cucumber.
Jeonbok Juk (μ 볡죽): If anyone in your group isn't a fan of cold soup or raw fish, order the abalone porridge. It is creamy, warm, and packed with deep, savory flavor.
4. Pro-Tips for Visitors
The Ideal Course: After your hearty meal, you are in the perfect spot. Take a leisurely walk around Cheongcho Lake to digest. There is also a famous cafΓ© nearby (Maris Cafe) that sometimes offers discounts if you present your receipt from the restaurant.
Pet Friendly (with conditions): For those traveling with a furry friend, this place has a special feature! While pets are not allowed inside the main dining area, they have dedicated pet cage lockers in the lobby where you can safely leave your dog (up to a certain size) while you eat.
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