BCD Tofu House Co-founder Tae-ro Lee Dies at 88

Tae-ro Lee, the co-founder of the iconic BCD Tofu House restaurant chain, died on March 8th at the age of 88, according to a family statement. Lee, alongside his late wife Hee-sook Lee, played a pivotal role in introducing and popularizing soondubu jigae, a spicy Korean silken tofu stew, to a wider audience.

From Korea to a Nationwide Chain

Born in Hamgyong Province, North Korea, in 1937, Tae-ro Lee fled to South Korea with his family during the Korean War. They operated restaurants in Bukchang-dong, Seoul, to support themselves during a period of significant hardship. He began studying law at Seoul National University in 1956, demonstrating a strong commitment to education.

Early Culinary Ventures

In 1967, Lee opened Yongdongpo Hamheung Naengmyeon in Seoul, specializing in North Korean cold noodles. This restaurant, described by his family as a “culinary pursuit and a deeply personal expression,” remains in operation today.

Bringing Soondubu to the U.S.

The Lees immigrated to the United States in the early 1990s. In 1996, they established Buk Chang Dong Soon Dubu in Los Angeles’ Koreatown, named after the Seoul district where they first operated. This restaurant would eventually become the flagship location for BCD Tofu House.

Popularizing a Korean Staple

Hee-sook Lee noted in a 2013 interview that soondubu was not widely popular in Korea at the time, often considered a quick lunch for business people. BCD Tofu House revolutionized the dish, offering over ten variations, including seafood, kimchi, gopchang, and vegetable options.

A Culinary Legacy

BCD Tofu House expanded beyond Southern California, opening locations in Texas and on the East Coast. While international locations in Tokyo, Seoul, and Seattle have since closed, the remaining restaurants continue to attract a loyal following, including Korean celebrities and K-pop stars. Blackpink’s Rose and the group Girls’ Generation have both been spotted dining at BCD Tofu House locations.

In addition to soondubu, BCD Tofu House serves a variety of traditional Korean dishes like galbi, bulgogi, bibimbap, and japchae. The Koreatown location on Wilshire Boulevard is known for its late-night hours, staying open until 3 or 4 a.m.

Continuing the Family Business

Tae-ro Lee is survived by three sons and many grandchildren. His sons are now leading the company, dedicated to “uphold[ing] the legacy that Mr. Tae-ro Lee and Mrs. Hee-sook Lee built together.” The family describes BCD Tofu House as “an enduring cornerstone of Koreatown and a meaningful part of Korean and Korean American culinary history.”