Skip touristy Hongdae main strip. Real student goldmine is Ewha back gate area where broke uni students actually eat. Tteokbokki cart outside gate 3 serves massive portions for 2,000 won that'll feed you properly.

Ajumma adds extra fishcake and ramyeon noodles if you ask nicely in korean. Open until 2am serving students pulling all-nighters at nearby PC bangs. Way better than overpriced Sinchon commercial stuff.

Plus you see real Seoul student culture not tourist performance. Living that broke life but eating like royalty for pocket change lol