While you should generally avoid myeongdong's overpriced tourist food, real Seoulites hit Sindang dong for tteokbokki that will actually destroy you. Tiny alley near Sindang station, Seoul's tteokbokki capital since 1970s. They don't tone down heat for tourists.

Ma Bok-rim halmeoni tteokbokki is legendary - red sauce so spicy it's basically rite of passage. Order full combo with soondae and twigim for complete pain experience. Bring tissues and milk money.

Honestly this place separates tourists from people who actually want authentic Korean spice levels - the real deal that even locals respect.