Markets are a great way to explore a city and gain insight into the culture of the locals. Seoul has an impressive selection of wet and dry markets weaved throughout its patchwork of neighborhoods. Each one is different from the next. While the city presents itself as an ultra-modern metropolis right out of the latest science-fiction movie, beneath its glossy exterior are historic sprinklings of what still remains. These markets listed here are must-sees for anyone planning to explore this bustling city.
Namdaemun Market
If you can’t find something at Namdaemun Market then you probably won’t find it anywhere. The vendors at Namdaemun Market sell more than 1,700 different goods. It is also the oldest and largest market in the city and has been around for more than 600 years. This is a great place to go if you’re searching for traditional gifts like Hahoe masks, jewelry, clothes, ceramics, and so much more. The market is conveniently located near the city’s south gate, making it a great two-for-one stop on your itinerary so even if you only have 24 hours in Seoul you’ll still be able to visit Namdaemun Market. Also, be sure to stop by one of the numerous food stalls to sample a few local treats like tteokbokki odeng (fish cake soup) or mandoo (Korean dumplings).
Noryangjin Fish Market
The sights and smells of this 24-hour fish market will put one’s taste buds in the mood for seafood. Located in Seoul’s Dongjak District, the market sits slightly south of the Han River. It first opened for business in 1927, making it the city’s oldest fish market. The market is busiest in the early hours of the morning when it’s auction time. Around 800 fishmongers sell more than hundreds of types of seafood which are flown in daily from around the world. Every aisle explodes with a variety of fresh seafood like salmon, crab, octopus, and oysters. Don’t leave without trying some of the seafood specialties on offer. Fish can be purchased from vendors and brought to any of the many restaurants that line the second-floor perimeter of the facility. They’ll clean and prepare your purchase and serve it right to your table.
Seoul Folk Flea Market
Spend an afternoon walking through the countries largest flea market and you’ll leave with a better sense of the country’s culture and history, as well as a one-of-a-kind souvenir or two. Seoul Folk Flea Market offers visitors a unique glimpse at relics from the county’s past. It’s the perfect place to go if you’re searching for unusual hidden gems to take back home. Inside the spacious two-story warehouse is a vast assortment of goods and bric-a-brac, including vintage furniture, loads of vinyl records, tableware, sports apparel, and jewelry. There is also a small food court where you can indulge in some local delicacies like Korean-style pancakes or rice soup or a delectable bowl of noodles. Be sure to watch out for the talented, traditional Korean percussion performances that occur at the market regularly throughout the year.
Gwangjang Market
Gwangjang Market is packed with vendors selling an impressive variety of goods from lacquerware to traditional Korean dresses (known as hanboks). The real draw, however, is all the food vendors selling the most incredible street food. Concentrated in rows throughout the central corridor of the market you’ll find a dizzying amount of food stands. It doesn’t take much to find the excited vendors shouting for your attention over their steaming pots and pans, just follow your nose and you’ll soon find the Korean classic dishes like sundae, gimbap, and tteoknokki.
Seoul Herbal Medicine Market
If you can’t find something at Namdaemun Market then you probably won’t find it anywhere. The vendors at Namdaemun Market sell more than 1,700 different goods. It is also the oldest and largest market in the city and has been around for more than 600 years. This is a great place to go if you’re searching for traditional gifts like Hahoe masks, jewelry, clothes, ceramics, and so much more. The market is conveniently located near the city’s south gate, making it a great two-for-one stop on your itinerary so even if you only have 24 hours in Seoul you’ll still be able to visit Namdaemun Market. Also, be sure to stop by one of the numerous food stalls to sample a few local treats like tteokbokki odeng (fish cake soup) or mandoo (Korean dumplings).
www.flickr.com/photos/phillipstewart/3385975561
Yongsan Electronics Market
If you can’t find something at Namdaemun Market then you probably won’t find it anywhere. The vendors at Namdaemun Market sell more than 1,700 different goods. It is also the oldest and largest market in the city and has been around for more than 600 years. This is a great place to go if you’re searching for traditional gifts like Hahoe masks, jewelry, clothes, ceramics, and so much more. The market is conveniently located near the city’s south gate, making it a great two-for-one stop on your itinerary so even if you only have 24 hours in Seoul you’ll still be able to visit Namdaemun Market. Also, be sure to stop by one of the numerous food stalls to sample a few local treats like tteokbokki odeng (fish cake soup) or mandoo (Korean dumplings).
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