Global Major Cities Guide

Traditional markets like Jagalchi and Gukje offer authentic food experiences and fresh ingredients.

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1. Iconic Dishes to Try in Busan’s Markets

Busan is famous for its seafood and street food, and the markets are the best places to experience these. Here are some must-try dishes:

Seafood Specialties

Hoe (Raw Fish): Freshly sliced raw fish, often served with gochujang (spicy red pepper paste) or ssamjang (soybean paste) and wrapped in lettuce or perilla leaves. Jagalchi Market is the best place to try this.
- Price Range: ₩20,000–₩50,000 per person, depending on the type of fish and portion size.
Grilled Eel (Jangeo-gui): A delicacy in Busan, grilled eel is marinated in a sweet and savory sauce.
- Price Range: ₩30,000–₩50,000 per portion.
Seafood Stew (Haemul-tang): A spicy and hearty stew made with a variety of fresh seafood, including clams, shrimp, and crab.
- Price Range: ₩10,000–₩20,000 per bowl.

Street Food

Ssiat Hotteok (Seed-Stuffed Pancake): A Busan specialty, this sweet pancake is filled with brown sugar, nuts, and seeds. It’s crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside.
- Where to Try: BIFF Square near Gukje Market.
- Price: ₩1,000–₩2,000 each.
Eomuk (Fish Cake): Busan is famous for its fish cakes, which are served on skewers in a light broth. They’re a warm and affordable snack.
- Where to Try: Gukje Market or Bupyeong Kkangtong Market.
- Price: ₩500–₩1,500 per skewer.
Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes): A classic Korean street food made with chewy rice cakes in a spicy-sweet red pepper sauce.
- Price: ₩3,000–₩5,000 per portion.
Gukbap (Rice Soup): A comforting dish made with rice served in a flavorful broth, often with pork or beef.
- Where to Try: Gukje Market or local eateries.
- Price: ₩6,000–₩8,000 per bowl.

Other Notable Dishes

Bibim Dangmyeon: A cold noodle dish mixed with vegetables and spicy sauce, often found in markets.
- Price: ₩5,000–₩7,000.
Nakji Bokkeum (Spicy Stir-Fried Octopus): A fiery dish made with tender octopus and vegetables.
- Price: ₩10,000–₩15,000.

2. Major Markets in Busan for Food and Dining

Jagalchi Market

Overview: The largest seafood market in South Korea, Jagalchi Market is a must-visit for seafood lovers. It’s located near the port, and you can find an incredible variety of fresh seafood, from live fish and shellfish to dried seafood products.
Dining Experience:
- You can purchase fresh seafood on the first floor and have it prepared for you at one of the restaurants on the second floor. This is called "sanjang" dining.
- Popular dishes include raw fish platters, grilled shellfish, and seafood stews.
Cultural Tips:
- Bargaining is common when buying seafood, but be polite and respectful.
- If you’re dining upstairs, the preparation fee is usually included in the price, but confirm this with the vendor.
How to Pay: Cash is preferred, but many vendors accept credit cards.
Hours: 5:00 AM–10:00 PM.

Gukje Market

Overview: One of Busan’s largest traditional markets, Gukje Market offers a mix of food, clothing, and household goods. It’s also a great place to sample street food.
Dining Experience:
- The market is famous for its food alley, where you can try dishes like tteokbokki, eomuk, and bibim dangmyeon.
- Look for stalls with long lines—they’re usually the best.
Cultural Tips:
- Many stalls have limited seating, so be prepared to eat standing or on small stools.
- Sharing tables with strangers is common and part of the experience.
How to Pay: Most street food vendors accept cash only, so bring small bills and coins.
Hours: 9:00 AM–8:00 PM.

Bupyeong Kkangtong Market (Night Market)

Overview: Known for its vibrant night market, this is the place to go for late-night eats and a lively atmosphere.
Dining Experience:
- Try international street food alongside Korean classics like ssiat hotteok and grilled skewers.
- The market is especially popular for its affordable prices and variety.
Cultural Tips:
- The night market can get crowded, so arrive early to avoid long lines.
- Vendors are friendly and may offer samples—don’t hesitate to try!
How to Pay: Cash is king here, though some vendors may accept mobile payments.
Hours: 7:30 PM–12:00 AM.

BIFF Square

Overview: Located near Gukje Market, BIFF Square is a hub for street food and entertainment. It’s named after the Busan International Film Festival.
Dining Experience:
- This is the best place to try Busan’s famous ssiat hotteok.
- Other popular options include fried snacks, skewered meats, and Korean-style crepes.
Cultural Tips:
- Eating while walking is generally frowned upon in Korea, so find a spot to stand and eat near the vendor.
How to Pay: Cash only.
Hours: 10:00 AM–10:00 PM.

3. Practical Tips for Navigating Busan’s Markets

Language: Most vendors speak limited English, but pointing and using basic Korean phrases like "igeo juseyo" (이거 주세요, "Please give me this") can go a long way.
Cash vs. Card: While some larger vendors accept credit cards, cash is preferred, especially for street food. Bring small bills and coins.
Hygiene: Korean markets are generally clean, but it’s a good idea to carry hand sanitizer or wet wipes.
Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Korea, and vendors will likely refuse if you try.
Portion Sizes: Portions are often generous, so consider sharing dishes if you’re in a group.
Recycling: Dispose of waste properly. Most markets have designated bins for food waste, recyclables, and general trash.

4. Cultural Practices for Dining in Markets

Respect the Queue: If there’s a line, wait your turn patiently. Cutting in line is considered rude.
Sharing Tables: In crowded markets, it’s common to share tables with strangers. Greet them with a polite "annyeonghaseyo" (안녕하세요, "Hello").
No Haggling for Food: While bargaining is acceptable for goods, it’s not common for food items.
Try Before You Buy: Vendors may offer samples of dried seafood or other products. It’s polite to try and thank them, even if you don’t make a purchase.

5. Final Tips

Timing: Visit markets early in the day for the freshest seafood or in the evening for the liveliest street food scene.
Transportation: Most markets are easily accessible by Busan’s efficient subway system. For example, Jagalchi Market is near Jagalchi Station (Line 1), and Gukje Market is a short walk from Nampo Station (Line 1).
Local Etiquette: Smile, be polite, and show appreciation for the vendors’ hard work. A simple "kamsahamnida" (감사합니다, "Thank you") goes a long way.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy the incredible food and vibrant atmosphere of Busan’s markets. Whether you’re indulging in fresh seafood at Jagalchi Market or savoring street food at BIFF Square, you’re in for a memorable culinary adventure!