Gwangjang Market is the oldest traditional market. Gwangjang Market is not just the oldest traditional market in Seoul — it’s a living piece of history, culture, and daily life.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the must-try foods and top tips for visiting Gwangjang Market!
Today, Gwangjang Market not only preserves Korean tradition but also embraces modern culture. Young locals and tourists alike gather here to enjoy traditional tastes, shop for vintage clothes, and soak in the nostalgic atmosphere.
Why You Should Visit Gwangjang Market
Located in the heart of Seoul, Gwangjang Market opened in 1905 as Korea’s first permanent market.
For over a century, it has been more than just a place for commerce — it has become a special space where you can truly feel the everyday life and warm spirit (정, jeong) of the Korean people.
Today, Gwangjang Market has transformed into a vibrant cultural hub offering a wide variety of items:
street food, traditional Korean clothing (hanbok), bedding, handicrafts, and much more.
It’s especially beloved by foreign visitors who want to experience the authentic side of Korea.
How to Get to Gwangjang Market
Getting to Gwangjang Market is easy thanks to Seoul’s excellent public transportation system.
- 🚇 Subway Line 1 – Get off at Jongno 5-ga Station, Exit 7 → about a 2-minute walk
- 🚇 Subway Line 2 – Get off at Euljiro 4-ga Station, Exit 4 → about a 5-minute walk
The market is also well-connected by various bus routes, making it very accessible.
Located in the Jongno district, Gwangjang Market is close to many of Seoul’s major attractions, such as Gyeongbokgung Palace and Insadong. It’s easy to plan a full day itinerary combining traditional sightseeing and market exploration.
✅ Operating Hours
- Food stalls: 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Hanbok and textile shops: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (※ Some shops are closed on Sundays)
Must-Try Foods at Gwangjang Market
1. Bindaetteok – Mung Bean Pancake
This is Gwangjang Market’s signature dish!
The pancake, made from ground mung beans, is crispy on the outside and moist on the inside.
It’s often served with a side of kimchi and pairs perfectly with a glass of chilled makgeolli for an authentic market meal.
Pair it with a glass of chilled makgeolli (Korean rice wine) for the full traditional market experience.
2. Yukhoe – Korean Beef Tartare
Fresh beef seasoned with sesame oil, Korean pear, and sesame seeds.
Yukhoe Alley in the market comes alive especially in the evening — a must-visit for meat lovers!
For a truly authentic experience, pair your yukhoe with a bowl of warm rice or order a side of seolleongtang (ox bone soup) from nearby stalls.
3. Mayak Gimbap – “Addictive” Mini Gimbap
These bite-sized rice rolls are dipped in a spicy mustard sauce.
Their nickname, “mayak” (meaning “drug” in Korean), hints at how addictive their taste can be!
4. Tteokbokki & Sundae – Spicy Rice Cakes & Blood Sausage
A classic combo of Korean street food!
The chewy rice cakes in spicy sauce and the soft sundae (blood sausage) are essentials for your Korean food bucket list.
5. Kalguksu – Handmade Noodle Soup
Handmade noodles simmered in a rich broth — simple yet deeply satisfying.
You’ll find cozy noodle stalls tucked inside the market’s narrow alleys.
Don’t forget to try kalguksu with a side of homemade kimchi, which adds the perfect spicy kick to the savory broth.
Tips for Visiting Gwangjang Market
💵 Bring Cash: Some vendors do not accept credit cards. It’s a good idea to have small amounts of cash ready.
🕰 Avoid Peak Hours: The market gets very crowded during lunchtime (11:00 AM–1:00 PM) and dinner (after 5:00 PM). Visiting in the morning or early afternoon is recommended.
🍽 Check Hygiene: Popular stalls usually have better turnover and fresher food.
🛍 Mind the Shop Hours: Hanbok and textile shops tend to close earlier, so visit them before late afternoon.
Final Thoughts
Gwangjang Market offers an unforgettable glimpse into Korea’s tradition, everyday life, and warm community spirit.
If you’re visiting Seoul, don’t miss the chance to spend a memorable day at Gwangjang Market —
the best place to experience the real Korea! 🌸
Visiting Gwangjang Market is more than just tasting food — it’s about immersing yourself in the rich history and warm spirit of Korea. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Gwangjang Market promises memories that will stay with you long after your journey ends.
👉 For more details, please check the official Gwangjang Market website (English).
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