Corner Kimbap: More Than Just a Roll 🥢✨

모퉁이김밥 Corner Kimbop
15 Dosan-daero 68-gil, Seoul

Before setting off for my weekend hike, I have a little ritual — I stop by this small shop for their signature kimbap. I do enjoy the taste, but if I’m honest, the real reason I come here is to see the owner. (No photos of the kimbap or her for privacy, sorry!)

I don’t have a picture of her, but she’s unforgettable. She doesn’t look like someone you’d expect rolling kimbap at 7 a.m. A few times, I’ve caught glimpses of her in the kitchen, preparing neat rolls for early risers. She’s always dressed as if she’s heading to an elegant brunch rather than a humble kimbap counter — soft cashmere sweaters, flowing silk dresses, long skirts, her hair pinned up perfectly, earrings catching the light, makeup flawless. Not your typical kimbap ajumma at all.

There’s an air about her — like a wealthy lady making kimbap for someone dear, not because she has to, but because she wants to. She feels like someone with a story, one I can only guess at. I often wonder what twists of life led her here, behind this small counter.

Intrigued as always, I carried my neatly wrapped kimbap up to the top of Achasan. Sitting at my favorite spot with the city stretched below me, I unwrapped it and took the first bite — and as usual, it was perfect. Somehow, it always tastes a little more special because of her.