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Busan’s favorite bowls of gukbap, all in one place

 

What began in August with people nominating their favorite dwaeji gukbap restaurants is now heading toward a flavorful finale. The Gukbap Showcase, running from Oct. 16 to 18, will wrap up the 2026 Busan Dwaeji Gukbap Grand Fair, a series of events celebrating the city’s beloved dish. The showcase offers tastings, talks and hands-on programs at Now Arriving on the third floor of the Busan International Finance Center in Nam-gu District, daily from 4 to 9 p.m. 

Under the theme “The People Behind Busan's Signature Bowl,” the showcase features a lineup of programs, including Gukbap Salon and Gukbap Awards, with something different to enjoy each day. 

On Oct. 16, the Gukbap Awards will reveal the results of a public vote for Busan’s favorite pork soup restaurants. Starting at 7 p.m., the ceremony will announce the top 20, top 10 and top three establishments. Earlier, at 5:30 p.m., culinary expert Leo Kang will host Gukbap Salon, a talk exploring personal preferences, tips for enjoying the perfect bowl, and the dish’s history and evolving trends, with a look at long-established restaurants and rising newcomers. 

On Oct. 17 and 18, food columnist Sang-hyun Park will take over Gukbap Salon at 6 p.m. each day. Visitors can also test their knowledge and taste buds with Gukbap Golden Bell, a quiz about the dish, and Gukbap Sommelier, a blind tasting challenge to identify restaurants by broth alone. 

Of the 20 restaurants selected through public vote, 11 will serve their signature pork soup at the showcase. Four restaurants will participate each day, with Subyeon Choego Dwaeji Gukbap joining on two days. Smaller portions, roughly half the usual size, make it easier to sample bowls from different vendors. Soju and makgeolli will also be available to pair with the rich, savory broth. Visitors who register in advance can enjoy a special tasting platter featuring pork soup from three different restaurants. Registration details will be announced on Instagram at @studio_foovel.

There’s more than food to take home. Visitors can browse gukbap-inspired merchandise, including T-shirts and keychains, or join free, first-come, first-served craft activities. 

For participating establishments and program details, visit the official Visit Busan website at the link below. The latest updates will also be shared on Studio Foovel’s Instagram account. As cooler autumn days settle in, it’s a great time to explore Busan’s favorite comfort food, and maybe find a new favorite bowl. 

※ 2026 Busan Dwaeji Gukbap Grand Fair: Gukbap Showcase, October 16-18

◎ Address: 3F, 128, Namdongcheon-ro, Nam-gu

◎ Google Maps: Click 

◎ Hours: 4-9 p.m. daily

◎ Visit Busan: Click 

◎ Instagram: @visitbusan.kr

◎ Pre-registration for gukbap platter: @studio_foovel

<Today's Vocabulary - 오늘의 단어>

nominate: 후보에 지명되다 wrap up: 마무리하다 preference: 선호도 identify: 특정하다 broth: 육수

Editor: Song Soomi

Copy Editors: Ryu Hyoseung, Anton J. Mapoy