Bulgogi Kimbap & Korean Fried Chicken with Chef Hakyung In Hanok

A Traditional Seoul Cooking Experience: Bulgogi Kimbap & Korean Fried Chicken with Chef Hakyung in a Hanok

Imagine stepping into a beautiful Hanok, a traditional Korean house, in the heart of Seoul, where you’ll learn to create classic Korean picnic foods like Bulgogi Kimbap and crispy Korean fried chicken. For about three and a half hours, this private class, led by Chef Hakyung, offers a perfect blend of culinary education, culture, and authentic atmosphere. At $140 per person, it’s a true value for those eager to bring home a taste of Korea’s beloved dishes while soaking in the traditional surroundings just minutes from Gyeongbokgung Palace.

What we particularly love about this experience is the hands-on nature—you don’t just watch a demonstration; you actively participate in making your meal from scratch. The studio’s setting, with its traditional Hanok architecture, helps you feel the essence of Korea’s culinary history. Plus, the opportunity to take photos in such a picturesque environment makes it more than just a cooking class; it’s a cultural snapshot.

On the flip side, if you’re not into cooking or food-focused activities, this might not be the best fit. Also, since the class ends back at the starting point, travelers should plan for the timing to match their broader sightseeing schedule. Still, for those craving an authentic, meaningful experience that combines food, culture, and a dash of fun, this tour hits the mark.

This class is perfect for food lovers, culture enthusiasts, or anyone who wants a memorable, hands-on introduction to Korean cuisine with a personal touch.

Key Points

• Authentic setting: Located in a traditional Hanok, providing cultural context and beautiful photo opportunities.
• Hands-on cooking: Fully participate in making Bulgogi Kimbap and Korean fried chicken, guided by a professional chef.
• Cultural insight: Learn about Korea’s culinary traditions and the significance of picnic foods in Korean culture.
• Convenient location: Close to Gyeongbokgung Palace, ideal for combining with sightseeing.
• Inclusive: Includes drinks and dessert, offering a complete experience for a reasonable price.
• Private experience: Small group or private session, ensuring personalized attention and interaction.

Detailed Review of the Experience

The Setting: Cooking in a Traditional Hanok

From the moment you arrive at the studio, located at 66-1 Jahamun-ro, Seoul, you’ll notice the charm of a Hanok—wooden beams, traditional tiled roof, and a peaceful atmosphere. This isn’t a sterile kitchen studio; it’s a place where culture and cuisine come together. The ambiance immediately sets the tone for an immersive lesson, making it easy to feel connected to Korea’s past even as you work on modern comfort foods like Kimbap.

The studio is well-situated near public transportation, making it accessible whether you’re coming from the Gyeongbokgung area or elsewhere in Seoul. The location makes it perfect for those who want a break from crowds and sightseeing but still want to experience the city’s rich cultural vibe.

The Chef: A Trusted Guide

Chef Hakyung, the instructor, boasts 7 years of experience in Korean cuisine and a solid educational background. That means she’s not just a great cook but also a patient teacher. In the reviews, guests praised her warmth and clear instructions—“Chef Hakyung was very welcoming and helped us through all the steps,” one reviewer noted. Her expertise ensures you’ll feel confident creating your own dishes, even if you’re new to Korean cooking.

What You’ll Make: Bulgogi Kimbap & Korean Fried Chicken

The core of the class revolves around making Bulgogi Kimbap, which is a meat-filled, rice-based roll perfect for picnics or parties, and Korean fried chicken, which is known for its crispy, flavorful coating. The chef demonstrates how to prepare boneless fried chicken, but if you have beef restrictions, there’s a substitution available—attention to dietary needs makes this class more inclusive.

Each participant gets to prepare their own dish from scratch, following step-by-step guidance. This active participation is one of the highlights; you’ll learn techniques like rolling Kimbap properly and frying chicken to crispy perfection. The chef’s instructions are clear and friendly, making sure everyone gets hands-on experience.

Beverages and Dessert

A welcome drink—a homemade beverage crafted by Chef Hakyung—starts the session, setting a friendly tone. You’re also offered soda, coffee, or tea to accompany your cooking. After the main course, guests can indulge in vanilla ice cream topped with a traditional Korean honey cookie, a simple yet delicious way to end your meal.

Photos and Takeaway Options

This experience is very photo-friendly; the studio’s aesthetic provides plenty of beautiful backdrops during and after cooking. Guests can choose to enjoy their food in the studio or take it to go—the chef can pack your meal in a picnic box if you prefer to continue exploring Seoul. That flexibility is great if you’re on a tight schedule or want to enjoy your picnic in a park nearby.

Authenticity and Value

What makes this class stand out is the authentic atmosphere combined with practical skills. You’ll leave with a good recipe you can replicate at home, plus a deeper understanding of Korean food traditions. Plus, at $140, the price includes all ingredients, drinks, dessert, and personalized instruction, offering excellent value for this intimate, cultural experience.

What the Reviews Say

Guests consistently praise the class for its personalized attention and delicious food. Irene_T commented on how much she enjoyed the “personalized session with Chef Kim,” noting the opportunity to learn more about the Hanok setting. Similarly, Tee_S described the class as “such a great experience,” highlighting how welcoming and helpful Chef Hakyung was, making the learning process enjoyable rather than intimidating.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re looking for a cultural, culinary, hands-on activity that lets you learn traditional Korean dishes in a beautiful, authentic setting, this class is a perfect choice. It suits solo travelers, couples, or small groups wanting a personalized experience. The focus on making familiar picnic foods means you’ll leave with recipes and skills you can easily recreate, making it especially appealing for foodies keen on bringing Korean flavors home.

Those who appreciate authentic atmosphere and expert guidance will find this worthwhile. However, if your main goal is a quick sightseeing tour or if you prefer large group classes with less personal interaction, you might want to explore other options. Still, for a memorable, culturally rich cooking experience in Seoul, this class delivers.

Practical Information and FAQs

What is the price and duration?
$140 per person, lasting approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Is it suitable for dietary restrictions?
Yes, a substitution for beef is available if you have restrictions.

What’s included in the tour?
A welcome beverage, soda/Pop, coffee or tea, the ingredients for your dishes, and dessert—vanilla ice cream with a honey cookie.

Where is the meeting point?
At 66-1 Jahamun-ro, in a traditional Hanok near Gyeongbokgung Palace.

Can I take my food with me?
Yes, you can enjoy your food in the studio or take it to go, with the option of a picnic box.

Is this a private class?
Yes, only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention.

How accessible is it?
It’s near public transportation, making it easy to reach.

What if I cancel?
Full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance; otherwise, no refund.

To sum it up

This Korean cooking class in a Hanok offers more than just a meal; it’s a chance to connect with Korea’s culinary traditions in a charming, authentic environment. The focus on making familiar picnic foods like Bulgogi Kimbap and Korean fried chicken makes it especially appealing for those who want practical skills and a tasty souvenir from their trip. With friendly guidance from Chef Hakyung and a setting that’s just as photogenic as it is educational, it’s a delightful way to spend part of your time in Seoul.

Whether you’re a food lover eager to learn new recipes or a traveler looking for a meaningful cultural experience, this class combines accessibility, authenticity, and fun—all in one package. It’s a memorable way to taste Korea beyond the usual sightseeing, leaving you with new skills and delicious memories.