Photo: Jin kyung Jeon, manager of Hanwoo Village, sharing her love for Korean cuisine and culture with London’s diverse community.
Leading With Passion And Vision
Jin kyung Jeon, manager of Hanwoo Village, shares her vision of authentic Korean cuisine, cultural connection, and the art of crafting memorable dining experiences in the heart of London.
When it comes to celebrating the culinary treasures of Korea within the vibrant and multicultural food scene of London, few individuals embody such passion, dedication, and vision as Jin Kyung Jeon, manager of the renowned Hanwoo Village Korean restaurant. With every dish served and every guest welcomed, Jin Kyung Jeon orchestrates an experience that transcends mere dining—it becomes a heartfelt journey into the very essence of Korean culture. Her commitment to preserving the rich tradition of Korean cuisine, while seamlessly adapting to the diverse tastes of an international audience, reveals a depth of mastery and profound respect for her roots.
Under the guidance of its visionary owner, Chef Hyunsik Sun, Hanwoo Village has become a bastion of authenticity, blending quality, heritage, and innovation to deliver not just meals but moments steeped in ‘jeong’—the Korean spirit of unconditional care and affection. From the careful curating of Hanwoo beef, a symbol of Korean hospitality, to the meticulous training and management of her team, Jin Kyung Jeon ensures every detail is designed to leave an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to step through Hanwoo Village’s doors.
In this exclusive interview with Taste London magazine, Jin Kyung Jeon invites us into her world. She shares the challenges, triumphs, and philosophies that have shaped her leadership journey, revealing how she has seamlessly entwined Korean culinary tradition with London’s dynamic dining landscape. Prepare to be inspired by this extraordinary tale of cultural connection, unyielding authenticity, and a culinary ethos driven by the warmth of human connection.
Jin Kyung Jeon is a remarkable leader, preserving Korean culinary traditions with warmth, passion, and unwavering dedication to excellence.
What inspired you to become the manager at Hanwoo Village Korean restaurant?
My passion for Korean food and culture led me here. Korean cuisine is more than just food; it’s a reflection of our history, philosophy, and spirit of sharing. I wanted to create a place where people in London could experience a true taste of Korea, not just through our dishes, but also through our authentic atmosphere and genuine hospitality. Hanwoo Village is a perfect place to share this vision.
How would you describe the experience of managing a Korean restaurant in a city like London?
It’s been a bit of a whirlwind, to be honest. Navigating a new culture, where a simple “cheers” can have so many different meanings, has been a steep learning curve. But it’s also been incredibly rewarding. Seeing our international guests fall in love with something as simple as a kimchi pancake or the rich flavour of our Hanwoo beef makes all the logistical challenges worthwhile. The biggest challenge has been finding a balance between staying true to Korean culinary traditions and catering to the diverse palates of our international guests. It requires a deep understanding of both cultures and a lot of creativity to ensure everyone feels welcome and can enjoy an authentic Korean experience.
“Korean cuisine is more than just food; it’s a reflection of our history, philosophy, and spirit of sharing.”
– Jin Kyung Jeon
Can you tell us more about the importance of Hanwoo beef in Korean cooking and its role in your menu?
That’s a fantastic question. The name “Hanwoo Village” holds a much deeper meaning for us, and our owner Chef Hyunsik Sun is the one who brought this vision to life. While “Hanwoo” traditionally refers to native Korean cattle, Chef Sun chose this name to express his desire to treat every single customer as someone truly special. He was inspired by a tradition from 70 years ago in Korea, when beef was a rare luxury enjoyed only on major holidays or when welcoming the most precious guests. Based on this, he created our motto: to offer not just a meal, but a full experience of Korean warmth and hospitality. We believe that as long as you are with us, you deserve the very best treatment.
How do you ensure the restaurant stays true to Korean culinary traditions while catering to a diverse customer base?
Under the guidance of our owner Chef Hyunsik Sun, we maintain a constant balancing act between preserving tradition and introducing our dishes to new palates. The core of our menu is built on his authentic, time-honoured Korean recipes. We use traditional cooking methods and focus on creating the rich, deep flavours that define our cuisine. At the same time, we’re mindful of our diverse customer base. This means we might adjust spice levels or offer a wider variety of vegetarian options to ensure everyone feels comfortable exploring Korean food. The key is to adapt the presentation and approachability without ever compromising the authentic soul of the dish.
“Seeing our international guests fall in love with something as simple as a kimchi pancake makes all the challenges worthwhile.” – Jin Kyung Jeon
What challenges do you face as a manager, and how do you overcome them?
My biggest challenge is building and nurturing a team that is passionate about Korean food and our mission. It’s crucial to find people who not only have the right skills but also a genuine understanding of our culture. We overcome this by focusing on ongoing training and fostering a strong team culture. I work hard to create a supportive environment where every team member feels valued and understands their vital role in delivering an unforgettable experience.
How do you approach creating an unforgettable dining experience for your customers?
We focus on creating a sense of ‘jeong’ (정)—a uniquely Korean feeling of deep affection and genuine care. This means paying attention to every detail, from the moment a guest walks in. It’s about more than just serving great food; it’s about making them feel welcomed, comfortable, and appreciated. We aim to create a warm, inviting atmosphere and provide attentive, personalised service that makes them feel like a cherished guest in our home.
What is your process for sourcing high-quality ingredients for the restaurant’s dishes?
Our owner Chef Hyunsik Sun oversees a dedicated sourcing process. Our Hanwoo beef is imported directly from trusted suppliers in Korea. For fresh vegetables and other ingredients, we work closely with local farms and suppliers in London. We also make some of our key ingredients, like kimchi, in-house to ensure the highest quality and an authentic taste, following Chef Sun’s strict standards.
How do you manage your team to maintain consistency and excellence in service and food quality?
I believe a great team is built on open communication and clear standards. We have daily briefings to discuss our goals and address any challenges from the day before. We have very clear procedures for food preparation and service to ensure every dish and interaction meets our high standards. I encourage team members to provide feedback and take ownership of their roles, so we’re all working together towards the same goal: providing consistent excellence.
Are there any upcoming changes or new dishes at Hanwoo Village that you’re excited about?
We’re not planning any new menu items just yet, but we are currently running a special promotion that I’m very excited about. We’re offering a 30% discount on all lunch menus during weekdays. For evenings and weekends, we’re giving a 30% discount on our premium Wagyu sets to provide a luxurious dining experience at a more accessible price. We believe this is a great way to show our appreciation to our loyal customers while also inviting new guests to experience our authentic Korean BBQ.
What advice would you give aspiring managers who want to work in Korean cuisine abroad?
The most important thing is to have a deep respect for Korean culture. Take the time to understand the traditions and stories behind the food. Build a team that shares your passion, and always be open to learning and adapting. Most importantly, never forget the core of Korean cuisine is its warmth and generosity.
Hanwoo Village And Jin Kyung Jeann Showcase The Art Of Korean Cuisine In London
Hanwoo Village delivers authentic Korean cuisine with heart, soul, and precision. From tender barbecue meats to tangy kimchi, Manager Jin Kyung Jeann offers exceptional flavors matched by thoughtful service.
