Gonghwachun (Incheon)

Jjajangmyeon a fusion Chinese dish, was invented in Incheon 104 years ago in this restaurant. Well not exactly "this restaurant" anymore, since Gonghwachun left a couple of years ago its original building for this poorly designed monstruosity. Well not exactly "left" : the monument has been shamefully abandoned, and each time I pass by its facade looks more derelict, its painted sign less legible, and the pigeons more at home (see picture).

Some day, Incheon city officials will realize that the original spot was much cuter and had a much higher potential for tourism than the artificial "Chinatown" they "re-created" at the beginning of the millenium... but I'm afraid the new and not improved Gonghwachun is here to stay with its large window panes that help you freeze in the winter and bake in the summer.

To add insult to the injury, they don't even propose the best jjajangmyeon in town. Most mom and pop eateries can compete with this factory.

Yes, I'm not happy. Incheon is losing its charm and its key architectural assets for short term profit. And I'm begging local authorities to stop the massacre and to prevent Seoul speculators from ruining Jemulpo's cultural heritage.

Gonghwachun / 공화춘 (Chinese restaurant)
5-6 Bukseong-dong-3-ga, Jung-gu, INCHEON, ROK
Tel +82.32.765.0571

Seoul Village 2009