Lee Hae-rin is a City Desk reporter at The Korea Times, covering social issues, tourism and taekwondo. She is passionate about speaking up for the rights of minorities, including women, LGBTQ+, people with disabilities and animals as well as discovering the latest makgeolli trend in town. Feel free to reach her at lhr@koreatimes.co.kr.
Michelin Guide celebrates 10th anniversary in Korea
Chefs from restaurants in Seoul and Busan recognized by the Michelin Guide pose during the 10th anniversary ceremony held in Busan, Thursday. Korea Times photo by Lee Hae-rin
By Lee Hae-rin
Total of 233 restaurants in Seoul and Busan recognized by Michelin Guide this year
BUSAN — The Michelin Guide marked a milestone in Korea, Thursday, celebrating a decade of showcasing the country’s culinary identity through one of the world’s most influential dining authorities.
This year, a total of 233 restaurants in Korea have been selected for the Michelin Guide. They include one three-star restaurant, 10 two-star restaurants, 35 one-star restaurants, 71 Bib Gourmand restaurants, 116 Suggested restaurants and four Green Star restaurants.
The Michelin Guide hosted its 2026 Seoul and Busan ceremony at Signiel Busan, unveiling this year’s selections and honoring new culinary talents. The event, themed “A Decade of Journey,” highlights the evolution of Korean cuisine since the guide’s debut in 2017 and its continued expansion beyond the capital.
Launched initially as the Michelin Guide Seoul, the publication broadened its scope in 2024 to include Busan, Korea’s second-largest city and a rising hub of gastronomy. The move reflected the growing diversity of Korean cuisine and the international attention local chefs have drawn with their inventive yet deeply rooted flavors.
“Over 10 years, the Michelin Guide has closely observed the outstanding quality, creativity and responsible practices demonstrated by restaurants across Korea,” the group said in a statement. “Their dedication has elevated Korean cuisine on the global stage.”
A banner celebrating the Michelin Guide Korea's 10th anniversary stands outside the ceremony venue at Signiel Busan, Thursday. Korea Times photo by Lee Hae-rin
Ahead of the main event, the 2026 Bib Gourmand list — which highlights eateries offering exceptional food at reasonable prices — was released last week. Five restaurants in Seoul and three in Busan were added for this year's list.
The new additions in Seoul include 3Dae Samgyejangin (3rd Samgyetang) in Seocho District, Gosari Express and Sobakeeri Suzu in Jung District, Andeok in Jongno District, and Oilje in Yongsan District. In Busan, Moemiljip in Haeundae District, Songheonjip in Suyeong District and Pyeongyangjip in Buk District made the Bib Gourmand list for the first time.
The full lineup of Michelin-star restaurants, spanning one to three stars, were announced during Thursday’s ceremony.
Michelin Guide also introduced a new Opening of the Year Award, recognizing a restaurant or team whose debut significantly influenced the local dining scene through creative concepts and refined culinary craftsmanship. It joins the Michelin Guide’s existing special honors, including the Service Award, Young Chef Award and Sommelier Award, presented in partnership with Champagne producer Perrier-Jouet.
As part of the anniversary celebration, Michelin emphasized its continued commitment to supporting Korea’s restaurant industry and showcasing its culinary artistry to international audiences. Over the past decade, the guide has become a benchmark for both chefs and diners, maintaining strict evaluation standards.
The 10th anniversary ceremony was attended by chefs, restaurateurs, media and food enthusiasts from across the country.