Do you live for extraordinary dining? Discover The 2026 Michelin Guide Seoul & My Personal Best 3
For food enthusiasts, the Michelin Star is more than just a rating. It’s gold standard. There’s a certain magic to seeing that iconic red flower; it’s a seal of approval that makes you trust a restaurant without a second thought.
To be honest, these days I’ve become a “practical Korean mom” who carefully weighs the value for money. My current criteria for picking a restaurant usually revolve around whether it’s kid-friendly or if they have a menu my little ones will actually eat. But back in my dating days? My husband and I were true Michelin-hoppers.
Back then, I was young and earning my own stay. Instead of worrying about investments or saving every penny, I was captivated by the sheer ambiance and the “art” of dining. While a part of me occasionally thinks about the money spent, I don’t regret it for a second. Those experiences broadened my culinary horizons. I learned how simple ingredients can be transformed into “art” through an obsession with perfection, and I discovered the true meaning of world-class hospitality and the power of spatial mood.
If you are visiting Korea, I highly recommend dedicating at least one meal to a Michelin-starred restaurant. If you’re not looking to splurge, the Bib Gourmand selection is a fantastic alternative. Whether it’s a sophisticated twist on modern Korean cuisine or soul-filling traditional dishes, you’ll discover a whole new side of Korea through its flavors.
In this post, I’m excited to share the latest selection of the Michelin Guide Seoul & Busan 2026, which was recently unveiled. Let’s explore the finest dining spots in these two vibrant cities that you won’t want to miss!
A Decadelong Culinary Journey: The 10th Anniversary Edition
On March 5, 2026, the culinary world gathered at Signiel Busan, overlooking the stunning Haeundae beach, for a momentous occasion. The Michelin Guide Seoul & Busan 2026 was officially unveiled, marking the 10th anniversary since the guide first arrived in Korea in 2017.
This year’s selection is particularly significant, boasting the highest number of new and promoted Michelin-starred restaurants since its debut. It’s a clear testament to how Korea has evolved into a world-class gastronomic destination.
2026 Selection at a Glance
The 2026 guide features a total of 233 restaurants, with 178 in Seoul and 55 in Busan. This year, 10 restaurants were newly awarded or promoted, bringing the national total of Michelin-starred establishments to 46.
| Category | Seoul | Busan | Total |
| 3-Star | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| 2-Star | 10 | 0 | 10 |
| 1-Star | 31 | 4 | 35 |
| Bib Gourmand | – | – | 71 |
| Selected | – | – | 116 |
In Busan, one restaurant was newly promoted, bringing the city’s total to four 1-star establishments.
Insights from Gwendal Poullennec
Gwendal Poullennec, the International Director of the Michelin Guides, highlighted the maturity of Korea’s dining scene:
“Over the past decade, Korea has developed a mature, confident, and multi-layered gastronomic ecosystem. Seoul has established itself as a sophisticated culinary capital balancing tradition and innovation, while Busan is rapidly emerging as a dynamic hub based on its unique regional character.”
He particularly emphasized the “persistence and maturity of traditional Korean cuisine,” noting that its outward simplicity masks incredible skill, pride, and craftsmanship developed through deep specialization.
The Stars of 2026: Michelin Guide Seoul & Busan Highlights
The Pinnacle of Taste: 3-Star Maintenance ★★★
- Mingles (Chef Mingoo Kang): Maintaining its 3-star status for two consecutive years, Mingles remains the ultimate representative of Korean fine dining. The restaurant continues to offer a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity with unwavering consistency and creative brilliance.
Rising to Excellence: New 2-Star Entrants ★★
- Sosuheon (Chef Kyung-jae Park): Promoted from 1-star to 2-stars. Set in a Hanok with a modern city backdrop, this 8-seat counter offers exquisite nigiri. The transition from seasonal appetizers like snow crab to the final cup of matcha leaves a serene, lasting impression.
- Mosu (Chef Sung Anh): Making a grand return with 2-stars in Yongsan. Iconic dishes like the abalone taco and burdock tart remain as stunning as ever, complemented by an open kitchen and a beautiful sunset view from the second floor.
Newly Crowned 1-Star Gems ★
From hidden gems in Seoul to Busan’s growing scene, these restaurants have earned their first stars:
- Gagen by Choi Junho (Seoul): Elegantly expresses Japanese seasonality with handmade somen and fresh warabimochi.
- Le Doré (Busan): Busan’s 4th Michelin-starred restaurant. A modern reinterpretation of Korean essence with French and Japanese techniques.
- Jueun (Seoul): Captures the subtle changes of the four seasons using traditional fermented pastes and media art.
- Hakushi (Seoul): Known for its creative “Unagi” dish served in two distinct styles—a surprising yet harmonious experience.
- Giwagang (Seoul): A natural fusion of French techniques and Korean soul, like Dongchimi with caviar.
- Collage (Seoul): Traditional French cuisine with a modern touch, utilizing Korean seasonal ingredients and fermentation.
- SAN (Seoul): Creative balance of complexity and restraint, featuring imaginative dishes like lobster salted seafood.
- Sushi Kanesaka (Seoul): Located in the InterContinental Parnas, offering sophisticated sushi with domestic rice seasoned with red vinegar.
Green Stars: Dining with a Conscience
The Michelin Green Star recognizes restaurants committed to sustainable gastronomy:
- Mitou (2-Star): Focuses on local sourcing from family farms and reducing food waste.
- Gosari Express: A creative vegan restaurant in Seoul Central Market, proving the limitless possibilities of “Gosari” (bracken).
Special Awards: Celebrating the People Behind the Plate
- Sommelier Award: Jung-in Lee (Giwagang)
- Service Award: Il-woo Kim (Gucci Osteria)
- Young Chef Award: Chang-wook Kim (Le Doré)
- Opening of the Year: Chef Ian (Ian, Busan)
TGE’s Top 3 Michelin Picks in Seoul
While the 2026 list is exciting, I want to share my personal “All-time Best 3” based on my own cherished memories in Seoul. These are the places that defined my journey from a young dreamer to a devoted mother and wife.
1. Jungsik Seoul (2-Star ★★)
The Place Where Gastronomy Becomes Art
I first visited Jungsik about 15 years ago (I can’t believe it’s been that long!) when my husband and I had just started dating. Back then, fine dining was a whole new world to me. I went with such a pure, curious heart, and it was here that I truly realized food could be a form of art.
The highlight was definitely the iconic “Dol Hareubang” Dessert. It’s a pistachio mousse cake shaped like the famous stone statues of Jeju Island. Seeing such a cultural symbol transformed into a delicate dessert was a magical experience that showed me the power of detail in culinary storytelling.
Quick Directory: Jungsik Seoul
- Address: 11 Seolleung-ro 158-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
- Phone: +82 (2)517-4654
- Reservation: reservation@jungsik.kr
2. Alla Prima (2-Star★★)
A Sophisticated Escape for a New Mom
Located in Nonhyeon-dong, Alla Prima used to be near my old office. I used to pass by it every day, dreaming of dining there one day. That dream came true on our first wedding anniversary after having our first baby.
After months of feeling “disheveled” while caring for a newborn, leaving the baby with my parents for a few hours and dressing up for this date felt incredibly special. The atmosphere was mature and upscale, yet the spacious layout provided a wonderful sense of privacy. Their experimental dishes were a breath of fresh air—a perfect gift for a tired but happy mom.
Quick Directory: Alla Prima
- Address: 13 Hakdong-ro 17-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
- Phone: +82 (2)511-2555
- Reservation: Catchtable Link
3. Exquisine (1-Star★)
Seasonal Freshness with a Warm Heart
We celebrated our 2024 anniversary at Exquisine. Known for Chef Kyung-won Jang’s innovative use of seasonal Korean ingredients, their lunch is notoriously hard to book. When the online reservation failed, my husband actually called the restaurant directly, pleading our case for our anniversary—and he succeeded!
What I loved most about Exquisine was its approachable vibe. It’s high-end, yet doesn’t feel pretentious. As someone who believes seasonal ingredients are the best medicine, I was deeply impressed by how they captured the essence of each season. Looking at the photos now makes me want to go back immediately!
Quick Directory: Exquisine
- Address: 6 Samseong-ro 140-gil, Cheongdam-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
- Phone: +82 (2)542-6921
- Reservation: Catchtable Link
“For me, food is a collection of memories, a journey of the senses, and a bridge between the past and the present. Whether you’re exploring the new stars of 2026 or revisiting old favorites like I do, I hope your next meal in Korea is nothing short of magical. Stay flavorful!“
You might also like:
- You might wonder “what are the hidden rules Koreans live by?” From the red ink myth to why we don’t shake our legs, explore 7 fascinating superstitions that still shape Korean lives today!” Please check out my previous posting on [7 Strange Korean Superstitions Every Homeowner Should Know]
- Understanding these superstitions is just the beginning of discovering the beauty of Korean heritage. For a deeper look into our most celebrated holiday, check out my guide on [Embracing Korean traditions during Seollal]
- Looking for more luxury inspiration in Seoul? Don’t miss my story about a restorative family staycation at the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul. It was the perfect break before the kids started their new school year! More details on [The Ultimate Gwanghwamun Guide: BTS Performance Spot, 4 Must-Try Experiences at Four Seasons Seoul, and MMCA Art]
