Are you looking for incredibly affordable and heartwarming Korean food? Look no further than Haettuneun Sikdang (해뜨는 식당), famously known as the “1,000 Won Restaurant”! In a time where even a single bowl of rice can cost over ₩1,000, this extraordinary eatery in Gwangju’s Daen Market offers a full, satisfying Baekban (Korean set meal) for just ₩1,000. And the best part? Rice, side dishes, and soup are all unlimited refills!

A Humble Price, An Inspiring Story

Initially, my interest in Haettuneun Sikdang was purely based on its unbelievably low price. I was curious about the quality and composition of a ₩1,000 Baekban. However, upon visiting this restaurant, I realized that the price is the least significant aspect of its story. Haettuneun Sikdang is more than just a cheap eat; it’s a testament to generosity, community spirit, and the enduring legacy of its founder, Kim Seon-ja.

For over 12 years, Haettuneun Sikdang has maintained its ₩1,000 price, offering warm meals to countless people. Located in the bustling Daen Market in Gwangju Metropolitan City, this restaurant operates only during lunchtime (11:30 AM – 2:00 PM). I arrived a bit early, and even before entering, a neighboring shop owner asked if I was there to “work.” This unusual greeting hinted at the unique nature of this place.

More Than Just a Restaurant: A Community Effort

It turns out that Haettuneun Sikdang is regularly supported by volunteers – students, local merchants, and ordinary citizens who come to lend a hand. Without being asked, I found myself helping out, setting tables and arranging chopsticks. This spontaneous act of kindness reflects the atmosphere of the restaurant. It’s not just a place to eat; it’s a place where people come together to support a noble cause.

The story behind Haettuneun Sikdang is truly touching. Founder Kim Seon-ja, who started the restaurant in 2010 at the age of 68, was once a wealthy businesswoman. However, after experiencing business failures and fraud, she faced immense hardship, even struggling to feed her six children. This experience deeply instilled in her the value of a single meal. Despite not being financially well-off herself, she decided to open Haettuneun Sikdang with the sole purpose of providing warm meals to those in need.

The ₩1,000 price tag wasn’t about profit; it was about dignity. Kim Seon-ja wanted people to feel they were paying for their meal, not receiving charity, allowing them to eat with pride and without burden. The restaurant is not run for profit; it operates at a loss, sustained by Kim Seon-ja’s personal savings from a second job and contributions from her children.

A Legacy of Giving Continues

Kim Seon-ja’s selfless dedication inspired the community. Donations of rice, side dishes, and financial support poured in from local businesses, individuals, and organizations. Even the local gas company owner personally covered the restaurant’s gas bill. This collective effort kept Haettuneun Sikdang afloat.

Tragically, Kim Seon-ja passed away in 2015 after battling colon cancer. Even during her illness, her primary concern was for the people who depended on her restaurant. Her dying wish was for Haettuneun Sikdang to continue. Her daughter has bravely taken over, running the restaurant since 2015. She supplements the ongoing deficits with her income from insurance sales and investments, continuing her mother’s legacy of compassion.

My initial shallow curiosity about a cheap meal was quickly replaced by deep respect and admiration. The food at Haettuneun Sikdang is made with domestic ingredients (except sesame leaves and peppers), and the payment system is based on trust – customers deposit their ₩1,000 into a box, unsupervised, and everyone pays. Takeout is also available for the same price. The owner remembers each customer’s preferences, creating a warm, family-like atmosphere.

In a time when free meal services have been disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, Haettuneun Sikdang has become even more vital. The workload is immense, and it’s incredible to witness the owner managing it daily, alongside her other work, with minimal financial gain. On the day I volunteered, numerous donations arrived, showcasing the community’s unwavering support. It’s a heartwarming reminder that despite hardships, the world is still full of kindness.

Finally, I had the chance to eat. The day’s menu featured delicious black rice, tofu and dried radish greens soup, kimchi, radish salad, and pickled peppers. After a morning of volunteering, it was incredibly satisfying. Haettuneun Sikdang isn’t about gourmet cuisine; it’s about providing nourishment, warmth, and a sense of community. It’s a place where a simple meal carries a profound message of generosity and hope.

Inspired by the experience, I also made a small donation, joining the list of contributors. Haettuneun Sikdang is a shining example of selfless service and community solidarity, a place where a ₩1,000 meal feeds not just the body, but also the soul.

Restaurant Information:

• Name: Haettuneun Sikdang (해뜨는 식당) / 1,000 Won Restaurant
• Location: Daen Market, Gwangju Metropolitan City, South Korea
• Operating Hours: Lunch only, 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM
• Price: ₩1,000 per Baekban meal
• Rating: Highly recommended for its heartwarming story, community spirit, and incredibly affordable and delicious home-style Korean meals. (Not a typical star rating, but an endorsement of its values and impact)