TLDR
- JUNGHEE, a modern Korean fusion restaurant from Seoul, has officially opened at The Campus Ampang, offering a dining concept centred around creative dishes and stylish presentation.
- Its menu showcases a blend of traditional Korean flavours with international techniques and influences, resulting in unique offerings such as the Bracken Fern Cream Noodles and Junghee's Platter.
- The dining space features contemporary Seoul-inspired design elements, making it an ideal spot for casual meals, date nights or gatherings with friends.
Malaysia's Korean dining landscape is crowded with K-BBQ restaurants, fried chicken chains and familiar comfort food staples. Enter JUNGHEE (정희), a Seoul-born modern Korean fusion concept that highlights inventive dishes, stylish presentation and an experience that feels more akin to dining at a trendy Seoul hotspot than a conventional Korean restaurant.
Having built a following across South Korea with over 20 outlets, the brand recently made its Malaysian debut at The Campus Ampang. During a recent preview, we sampled some of the restaurant's signature offerings that showcase its contemporary approach to Korean cuisine.
Korean cuisine through a modern lens
What makes JUNGHEE stand out is its willingness to move beyond traditional expectations. Instead of focusing solely on barbecue meats and stews, the menu reinterprets Korean ingredients through globally inspired techniques and presentations.
While the dishes are undeniably camera-friendly, they're not gimmicky. There's a clear effort to preserve Korean flavours while making them more approachable for local diners who may be looking for something beyond the usual Korean dining experience.
One of the most memorable dishes we tried was the Bracken Fern Cream Noodles (RM40).
Image Credit: JUNGHEE, Rojak Daily
At first glance, it looks more Italian than Korean, with its rich, creamy sauce coating chewy handmade dough pieces. The star ingredient is gosari, or Korean bracken fern, a staple ingredient often associated with traditional Korean home cooking.
The dish strikes an interesting balance with the cream sauce providing comfort and richness, while the bracken fern bringing an earthy depth that keeps things grounded in Korean culinary traditions.
The Crispy Chicken Pancake (RM33) feels like a mash-up between a traditional Korean jeon and a crispy Thai street snack. Thin, crunchy and packed with savoury flavour, the dish offers an intriguing crossover of culinary influences.
Beneath its golden, crackly exterior lies tender chicken, creating a satisfying contrast of textures with every bite. While the flavours remain distinctly Korean, the light crispness and addictive crunch make it feel more like a modern sharing plate than a traditional pancake.
Image Credit: Rojak Daily
For those seeking something heartier, the Wagyu Beef Kimchi Fried Hot-pot Rice (RM37) ticks all the right boxes.
Served sizzling hot, the dish combines wagyu beef, rice and kimchi in a way that celebrates the simple appeal of Korean comfort food. The richness of the beef is balanced by the gentle acidity and spice of the kimchi.
Meanwhile, if there's a dish that epitomises JUNGHEE's modern fusion identity, it's the Kimchi Cheese Tteokbokki Chicken Fries (RM35).
Think of it as a playful crossover between Korean comfort food and Italian-inspired indulgence. Crispy fried chicken is layered with melted cheese, kimchi and a savoury sauce, combining the bold, punchy flavours of Korea with the rich, comforting appeal of a cheesy Italian bake.
Image Credit: JUNGHEE, Rojak Daily
The standout item of the session was arguably Junghee's Platter (RM65), a substantial sharing dish featuring Beef Bulgogi, Spicy Chicken Grill and Prawns.
Served with tortilla-style wraps and an assortment of condiments, the platter immediately brings to mind Mexican fajitas, albeit through a distinctly Korean lens. Diners are encouraged to build their own wraps, mixing and matching proteins, sauces and toppings to create combinations tailored to their preferences.
A space built for modern diners
The food is complemented by an interior designed to reflect contemporary Seoul dining culture.
Warm wood accents, subtle Korean-inspired design elements and a cosy layout create a welcoming atmosphere without feeling overly themed. The compact space strikes a balance between trendy and comfortable, making it suitable for casual lunches, dates and social gatherings alike.
Image Credit: JUNGHEE
Like the food, the environment feels carefully curated for modern diners who value both aesthetics and experience.
Our verdict
JUNGHEE arrives in Malaysia with a concept that feels refreshing within the local Korean dining scene. Rather than competing directly with the countless BBQ-focused establishments already in the market, it offers an alternative centred on creativity, presentation and contemporary Korean flavours.
Of the dishes we tried, the Bracken Fern Cream Noodles and Junghee's Platter stood out the most, showcasing the restaurant's ability to innovate while remaining rooted in Korean culinary traditions.
For those looking to move beyond the usual Korean staples of barbecue, fried chicken and stew, JUNGHEE offers a compelling option. Whether you're visiting for a date night, a gathering with friends or simply to experience a different side of Korean gastronomy, JUNGHEE proves that Korean food can be every bit as inventive as it is comforting.
Featured Image Credit: JUNGHEE
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