Traditional Market in Seoul – 7 Best Market You Must Visit!

Traditional Market in Seoul

Looking for the best traditional market in Seoul you can visit while travelling to Korea? These bustling hubs of activity offer a glimpse into the local culture and provide a wide array of unique treasures to discover.

From fresh produce and street food to clothing and souvenirs, you can find it all in these traditional markets in Seoul. Let’s dive right into these great traditional markets in Seoul!

Table of Contents

Traditional Market In Seoul

These vibrant traditional markets in Seoul are where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and find unique treasures. Here are the best traditional market in Seoul to visit.

1. Gwangjang Market - Delicious Street Food

gwangjang market in seoul

Credit to @Inihaosaurus

Gwangjang market is the most well-known traditional market among tourists. Many tourists know this market for its delicious street food.

More than hundred years ago, in 1905, Gwangjang Corporations started this traditional market with sole purpose to reclaim Korean sovereignty during the Japanese occupation.

The name Gwangjang itself literally means “to gather from afar and keep altogether.” 

Back then, the traditional market was only for temporary, so it was open every few days. However, the Gwangjang market became the first established market that opens daily.

Since then, the market has continued to thrive and is famous for its authentic Korean street food. Try some local street food as you visit this traditional market in Seoul.

2. Namdaemun Market - Largest Traditional Market

Traditional Market in Seoul

Credit to wikimedia commons

Namdaemun market is another traditional market in Seoul located near the hotspot area of Myeongdong.

This traditional market gets its name from the Namdaemun Gate (Great South Gate), located next to this market.

It has been open since 1964, known for its night market that offers products like clothes, housewares, kitchenwares, accessories and others.

Even though it’s not as famous as Gwangjang market, you can still find many delicious street food here.

3. Dongdaemun Market

Traditional Market in Seoul

Credit to wikimedia commons

Dongdaemun is one of the places you visit when you travel to Seoul, so why not visit Dongdaemun market for a while as you walk around Heunginjimun Gate?

According to Wikipedia, Heunginjimun, which means “Gate of Rising Benevolence“, is one of The Eight Gates of Seoul in the Fortress Wall of Seoul, the landmarks you must visit in Seoul.

In this traditional market, you can find all kinds of goods like silks, fabric, clothes, bags, accessories, and some delicious treats.

In addition, this market location is close to Gwangjang Market, which means you can visit both on the same day you visit Dongdaemun areas.

If you are a photographers, Dongdaemun is the best place to take a great shot of the magnificent Dongdaemun Design Plaza (D.D.P), designed by Zaha Hadid, the world’s best architect.

4. Noryangjin Fish Market - Paradise For Seafood Lovers

Traditional Market in Seoul

Credit to wikimedia commons

Noryangjin Fish Market, this market reminds me of my first visit to my girlfriend’s house, located next to this fish market in Seoul.

Back to the topic, this fish market is the largest in Seoul, meaning you can find all kinds of fresh marine stuff here.

It has had decades of history since it opened to the public in 1927 in the street near Seoul Stations before being relocated to Noryangjin in 1971.

While you can visit some other fish markets, this market is the largest and best in price and freshness.

5. Insadong Market - Famous for traditional Korean arts and crafts

shopping in seoul

Credit to @Sumi_chip_

Insadong Market is a treasure trove for those who love traditional Korean arts and crafts. 

You can find various shops and stalls selling various items, from beautiful ceramics and pottery to intricately designed hanboks, the traditional Korean clothing in this market.

You can also find handmade souvenirs, such as jewellery, accessories, and artwork, that make perfect gifts or souvenirs of your time in Seoul. 

The market is a hub for local artisans and craftsmen; you can even watch them at work, creating their masterpieces right before you. 

Whether you’re an art lover, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for unique and authentic souvenirs, Insadong Market is a must-visit destination in Seoul.

Pro Tips: If you plan to get some traditional souvenirs to bring back home to your country, visit this market in the last two days before returning to your country.

6. Tongin Market - Famous for Dosirak (Korean lunchbox) Experience

Credit to wikimedia commons

Tongin Market is well known as a traditional market that offers the dosirak (Korean lunchbox) experience. The market offers a unique dining experience where you can create a personalized meal. 

From traditional dishes like bibimbap and japchae to street food favourites like tteokbokki and kimbap, you can try it all.

After filling your lunchbox, you can enjoy your meal at the market’s outdoor seating areas. Once you finish, you can explore the surrounding areas around Gyeongbokgung Palace.

7. Myeongdong Night Market

Traditional Market in Seoul

Credit to pixabay

Myeongdong is heaven for shoppers from all around the world. You can find all kinds of things you love in the Myeongdong area, from beauty to fashion.

In addition, Myeongdong has a night market, which operates from late 5 PM to midnight. This is the place to try a lot of delicious street food as you stroll around the main street.

Sum Up

While visiting traditional market might not be your main priority, trying delicious local food is necessary for every travellers.

These are the best traditional market in Seoul I can share with all of you. Please visit one of these traditional markets and feel free to share your experience with me.

Which one of these traditional markets do you want to visit during your travel to Seoul? Let me know in the comment sections below!

Traditional Market in Seoul
Traditional Market in Seoul

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