[Review] From HYBE Headquarters to Hillview: Keum Eun Don Brings Premium Aged Pork to Singapore

Originating from the culturally vibrant district of Yongsan in Seoul, Keum Eun Don is a new restaurant entrant in Singapore, specialising in traditional Korean barbecue (KBBQ).

Situated in HillV2 in the Hillview neighbourhood, the restaurant serves as the brand’s very first overseas outpost. In its home country, Keum Eun Don is strategically located right beside the global headquarters of HYBE Entertainment in Yongsan. It has organically cultivated a reputation as the preferred dining establishment for industry insiders, drawing a regular clientele that includes ENHYPEN members, LE SSERAFIM Kazuha, actress Kang So-ra, and actor Hwang Min Hyun, best known for his roles in Wanna One, Alchemy of Souls, My Lovely Liar, and Study Group. The latter is also their celebrity ambassador in Korea:

Beyond its celebrity appeal, the brand is built upon 17 years of F&B expertise and holds a government inspected Exemplary Restaurant certification in Korea.

The Singapore restaurant interior is designed in such a way as to foster a comfortable and elevated meal. The Korean design team intentionally moved away from the cramped and smoky environments typically associated with casual barbecue spots. Instead, they integrated cultural motifs such as traditional sambe hemp textiles, latticework inspired by royal Gonryongpo dragon robes, and giwa clay roof tiles.

The restaurant name itself is a clever play on words, translating literally to gold, silver, and bronze, but playfully substituting the word for bronze with the Korean word for pork.

The kitchen demonstrates their dedication to quality through a rigorous two stage ageing process. Selected cuts of premium Iberico pork are wet aged first, followed by a minimum of one full day of dry ageing to concentrate flavours and enhance tenderness. Additionally, the meats are lightly exposed to charcoal heat in the kitchen before ever reaching the table, preserving a deep, authentic smokiness while leaving diners in full control of the final table grilling.

During our visit, we had their Eun (Silver) set for 2 to 3 pax which featured all three of their signature cuts, including the Pork Belly, Pork Collar, and Prime Beef Short Rib. Priced at $145, it comes with free flow sides, one stew for sharing and a drink.

Our favourite was the Pork Collar. The cut was exceptionally thick and juicy, carrying a beautiful, subtle smokiness from the charcoal preparation. It struck a perfect balance between fat and lean meat.

A particularly interesting highlight accompanying the pork was their house made ssamjang mayo. This clever condiment softens the sharp saltiness of traditional ssamjang, adding a creamy contrast to the rich meat.

For diners who prefer something a bit more indulgent, the Pork Belly would be the cut for you. We watched as the thick layers of fat crisped up beautifully on the grill.

Despite the restaurant heavy focus on its pork cuts, the Prime Beef Short Rib is another highlight. Developed specifically for the Singapore market, this aged prime beef short rib was profoundly satisfying. The marinade lends an addictive sweet profile, which only intensified after caramelising over the hot grill.

For our stew, we had the Soft Tofu Stew with Seafood ($16), a comforting and nourishing bowl of goodness that complements the richness of the meat portions.

For those looking to experience this quality at a more accessible entry point, Keum Eun Don also offers reasonably priced lunch barbecue sets.

Starting from $26 per person, these sets include grilled beef bulgogi or pork, a choice of stew, rice, and a spread of house made banchan. It is a compelling way to enjoy their precise charcoal craft and premium aged meats during the day.

Keum Eun Don Restaurant

Address:
4 Hillview Rise
HillV2, Unit 01 09
Singapore 667979

Opening Hours:
Daily
11:30am to 2:30pm
5:00pm to 10:00pm

Contact:
+65 6222 0221

[Review] DRIM Korean Steak House: Refined Korean Charcoal BBQ and Soulful Lunch Dishes at Mandarin Gallery