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The Pajeon alley had its start with one shanty looking shack that began to sell pajeon. Afterwards, Pajeon houses kept appearing unitil this very day. Including the original Pajeon restaurant that lasted for 40 years, the Yeonnam area is saturated with locations that sell Pajeon.
Many universities are located near the Pajeon alley in Hwigyeongdong. The University of Seoul, Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, and Sahmyook University are all located within a 10 minute walking distance. Because of the universities in the area, most of the visitors of the alley are young and in their early 20's. It was in the 1980's that this area started to become a college town and Hoegi station was opened on line 1. Students that commuted to nearby schools naturally made the alley their meeting place. Well aware of a student's financial situation, even the most expensive of dishes would not exceed 10,000 won. The alley does not just sell Pajeon, but it also sells spicy stir-fried pork, spicy braised chicken stew, and tofu with kimchi.

Pajeon Alley Sign

Pajeon restaurants have passed through much time together with students. At the peak of the student movements in the 70's and 80's, it was this alley that students came to to unleash their pent-up frustrations and rant about the injustices of the world. 70% of customers are students in their 20's but the rest are those from the 386 generation who have already sent their youth away. It is hard to forget the delightfully greasy taste of Pajeon with a shot of alcohol. The Pajeon at the alley is different. Its nicknamed "Port Cutlet Pajeon" because of its bulky size and texture. It's guaranteed to fill your stomach up and no additional food is needed.

① Most of the menu items at Pajeonjip do not exceed KRW10,000.
② The writings on the wall give a peek into the life of a college student.

Just one plate of hot, piping pajeon with Makgeolli (rice wine), and some radish Kimchi makes even a plate full of meat look dull.