Eunae Hwang introduces herself with humility and charm. “I usually say I’m the founder and the other half of Seoulian, a Korean restaurant in Kuwait. I’m a self-taught chef who became a chef and owner quite by accident,” she shares. The journey that led her here is deeply rooted in family ties. “My family has a long history with Kuwait. My grandmother lived and ran a restaurant here, and my dad also had a business in Kuwait. It became home to us.” Eunae’s love for cooking comes from within. “I’ve always been a foodie—a chubby foodie growing up in an Asian household,” she laughs. “My family’s love for food influenced me, but really, it’s just who I am.”
Her culinary journey began from a humble home kitchen with no grand vision. “I’m not much of a planner,” she admits. “I just wanted to spread the awesomeness of Korean food and its bold flavors. I’m a ‘let’s just do it’ kind of person, and it works well in this field.”
At Seoulian, she strikes a balance between traditional and modernized Korean dishes. “We cater to the general public in Kuwait while honoring authentic Korean flavors,” Eunae says. Eunae has noticed similarities between Korean and Kuwaiti food cultures, particularly the love for rice and the generosity in sharing meals. “It’s heartwarming to see how food brings people together, no matter where you are.” While she hasn’t yet introduced Kuwaiti ingredients to her main menu, it’s on her bucket list. “I’ve cooked meals using local ingredients for my staff, but I dream of collaborating with a local chef to create a dish that blends both our cuisines.” When asked about memorable moments, Eunae lights up. “One surprising moment was when we created kimchi pizza for a collaboration at Barba. I wasn’t sure people would order it, but it sold out, and we had to triple the portion the next day. Seeing people in Kuwait embrace kimchi has been amazing!”
Eunae’s signature dish at Seoulian is a creamy rosé rice cake dish inspired by the traditional spicy Korean tteokbokki. “I noticed people here love cheese, so I made it creamy, added Korean spices, and it became one of our staples,” she explains. When asked which Korean dish everyone should try, she answers without hesitation: “Kimchi stew. It’s heartwarming and the best comfort food.”
Eunae has valuable advice for aspiring chefs, especially women: “Do what makes you happy. Don’t be afraid of failure; it’s better than not trying. Life is full of surprises, so keep a positive outlook.” As for her future? “I’m not a planner. I focus on today’s to-do list. But if I could make a wish, it’d be to expand—more kitchen space, more room for customers, and a lounge for my staff. Manifesting!”
Eunae’s story is a testament to following your passion, embracing your roots, and finding joy in sharing what you love. Her restaurant, Seoulian, stands as a flavorful bridge between Korea and Kuwait, bringing people together one dish at a time.
TRUTH OR DARE QUESTIONNAIRE
How would your mother describe you in one word?
Stubborn
How would you describe your mother in one word?
More stubborn
What is the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done?
Starting a restaurant
What is your theme song?
I’d say angry bird theme music, specially in EDM version. My staff gave me many nicknames and one of them is angry bird
Where would you like to live?
Wherever there is a bed, food, Internet, gym
What is your dream retirement location?
All of the above I just mentioned and anywhere with beach and seafood
What is the first famous quote that comes to your mind?
It’s either you pursue your passions, or they haunt you
Which animal best describes your perfect partner, be it in business, or in life?
Cats! Because they are the best
Do you miss anything from your childhood and if so, what is it?
My mom’s food, anything that she cooks, that smell coming from the kitchen
If you could change your name, to what would you change it?
I’ve never thought about it, but if I have to pick one? Emily? It’s my daughter’s name
How would you describe your handshake, in one word?
Handshake? I am a hugger
What is the toughest part of your character?
Goldfish memory. I don’t dwell or can’t because I am forgetful and everyday is a new day regardless of what happened the day before
Who is your favorite historical figure?
Yu Kwan-Soon. She was a Korean independence activist fighting against the Japanese invasion. She died at the age of 18 for the involvement of March 1st movement.
What in the world do you least desire?
I least desire a lack of compassion and understanding among people. FREE PALESTINE
What do you think is lacking in the world, which [if there weremore of it] would make the world a better place?
COMPASSION AND EMPATHY
Why do you think most people who do, like you?
I think people who do like me like me because I am funny. Hahahahah they might also say that I am caring, genuine and compassionate
Finish this sentence: “Happiness is…”
Happiness is overrated. I think focusing on the happiness distracts us from focusing on what’s really important and meaningful to us. I prefer to stay feeling content rather than feeling “happy”
Follow Eunae’s adventures on Instagram @seoulianmommy and definitely follow @seouliankw for the yummiest news.
