Members of the global phenomenon BTS are drawing headlines for their choice of soul food following their recent high-profile appearance in New York. On the evening of the 23rd (local time), several members visited "Okdongsik," a specialized pork gomtang eatery located in Manhattan’s Koreatown.
The visit followed a whirlwind schedule that saw the group fly from a historic performance at Gwanghwamun Square to New York for the "Spotify X BTS: Swimside" event at Pier 17. A video released on the Maeil Business Newspaper’s YouTube channel on the 24th captured Jin, V, RM, and J-Hope enjoying a meal in casual attire.
Okdongsik is helmed by Chef Ok Dongsik, who gained further fame as a "Black Spoon" contestant on Netflix’s Culinary Class Wars (Black and White Chef). The restaurant’s signature pork gomtang was notably selected by The New York Times as one of the "8 Best Dishes in New York" in 2023. Known for their love of Korean cuisine, the members' favorite dishes—including jeyuk-bokkeum (spicy stir-fried pork), sundae-gukbap, milmyeon, and ssambap—have frequently become "pilgrimage" sites for their fandom, ARMY.
The Distinction Between Pork Gomtang and Pork Gukbap
While often confused, pork gomtang and pork gukbap are distinct. Pork gomtang is a meat-based broth characterized by its clear, transparent appearance and mild, natural flavor. In contrast, the pork gukbap common in the Busan area features a milky, rich broth created by simmering bones for extended periods. This mirrors the difference between beef-based gomtang (clear) and seolleongtang (cloudy).
The New York Times described the dish at Okdongsik as featuring thinly sliced pork and white rice in a "clear, golden-colored pork broth," calling it a soup one could eat daily but suggesting it is even better saved for special occasions. The meal is served traditionally in a brass bowl, topped with green onions and accompanied by kimchi and a gochujang-based condiment for those preferring a spicier profile..
Nutritional Profile and Recovery Benefits
Pork gomtang is relatively low in calories, ranging from 43 to 74 kcal per 100g. It typically contains 3–9g of protein and is rich in minerals such as collagen, calcium, and phosphorus, which support bone and skin health. Using front-leg meat, as seen at Okdongsik, helps maintain high nutritional value while minimizing greasiness.
The abundant protein and collagen are excellent for muscle recovery and replenishing energy—essential for performers with hectic schedules. Additionally, the high-quality fats provide a lasting sense of satiety, while the minerals contribute to joint health and immune support.
Managing Sodium Intake
Despite its benefits, the broth is high in sodium, often exceeding 900mg per serving. This saltiness means that individuals with hypertension, cardiovascular issues, or kidney disease should moderate their intake, ideally limiting themselves to one bowl. Furthermore, excessively simmered broths can become high in phosphorus, which may interfere with calcium absorption if consumed in excess.
