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Once a staple of Korean diners, eateries serving homely food are vanishing
The Straits Times
|March 16, 2025
South Korea's "baekbanjip", or restaurants serving home-style meals that include a bowl of rice, soup and a variety of freshly prepared side dishes, are on their way out as consumers gravitate towards something new.
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SOUTH KOREA - South Korea's "baekbanjip", or restaurants serving home-style meals that include a bowl of rice, soup and a variety of freshly prepared side dishes, are on their way out as consumers gravitate towards something new.
Amid the rise of social media culture, many people seek out stylish settings that offer unique dining experiences, ambience and laid-back enjoyment.
Ms Kim Young-hee, 70, chef and owner of a baekbanjip called Cheongju Restaurant in Hapjeong-dong, western Seoul, bears the brunt of changing consumer demands.
Ten years ago, she served an average of at least 100 customers a day. Today, that number has dwindled to around 50.
This story is from the March 16, 2025 edition of The Straits Times.
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