Seoul

1. Gwangjang Market (광장시장)

Overview:
Gwangjang Market is one of Seoul’s oldest and most famous traditional markets, renowned for its bustling atmosphere and incredible variety of street food. It’s a great place to experience authentic Korean flavors and interact with locals.

Specialties:

• Bindaetteok (빈대떡): Savory mung bean pancakes, fried to crispy perfection.
• Mayak Gimbap (마약김밥): Small, addictive seaweed rice rolls served with mustard sauce.
• Tteokbokki (떡볶이): Spicy rice cakes.
• Sundae (순대): Korean blood sausage.
• Hotteok (호떡): Sweet pancakes filled with brown sugar, nuts, and cinnamon.
• Raw Beef (육회): Freshly prepared raw beef, often served with egg yolk and pear slices.

Costs:

• Most dishes range from ₩3,000 to ₩10,000 ($2.50–$8 USD).
• A full meal can cost around ₩10,000–₩15,000 ($8–$12 USD).

Cultural Practices:

• Vendors are friendly and often allow you to sample food before purchasing.
• Seating is communal, so don’t be shy about sharing a table with locals.
• Cash is preferred, though some vendors accept credit cards.

Nearby Attractions:

• Cheonggyecheon Stream: A peaceful urban stream perfect for a stroll.
• Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP): A futuristic cultural hub with exhibitions and shopping.

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2. Namdaemun Market (남대문시장)

Overview:
Namdaemun Market is Seoul’s largest traditional market, offering a mix of food, clothing, and household goods. The food stalls here are particularly famous for their affordability and variety.

Specialties:

• Galchi Jorim (갈치조림): Braised cutlassfish in a spicy, savory sauce.
• Kalguksu (칼국수): Handmade knife-cut noodles in a light broth.
• Hoddeok (호떡): Sweet pancakes with a gooey filling.
• Jeon (전): Korean-style savory pancakes with various fillings like seafood or vegetables.

Costs:

• Street food items start at ₩2,000–₩5,000 ($1.50–$4 USD).
• Sit-down meals cost around ₩8,000–₩12,000 ($6–$10 USD).

Cultural Practices:

• Bargaining is common for non-food items, but food prices are usually fixed.
• The market is busiest during lunch hours, so arrive early to avoid crowds.

Nearby Attractions:

• Namdaemun Gate (Sungnyemun): A historic landmark and one of Seoul’s National Treasures.
• Myeongdong Shopping District: A short walk away, offering trendy shops and more street food.

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3. Tongin Market (통인시장)

Overview:
Tongin Market is a smaller, more organized market known for its unique Dosirak Café (도시락카페) system, where visitors can create their own lunchbox using market tokens.

Specialties:

• Dosirak (도시락): A customizable lunchbox filled with various side dishes and rice.
• Japchae (잡채): Stir-fried glass noodles with vegetables.
• Fried Chicken (치킨): Korean-style crispy fried chicken.
• Kimchi Pancakes (김치전): Savory pancakes made with kimchi.

Costs:

• Purchase tokens for ₩5,000 ($4 USD), which can be exchanged for food items.
• A full meal typically costs ₩5,000–₩10,000 ($4–$8 USD).

Cultural Practices:

• The Dosirak Café system is a fun and interactive way to try multiple dishes.
• Vendors are accustomed to tourists, so don’t hesitate to ask questions.

Nearby Attractions:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace: A stunning Joseon-era palace just a short walk away.
• Seochon Village: A charming neighborhood with traditional hanok houses and cafes.

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4. Myeongdong Street Food Market (명동거리 음식시장)

Overview:
While not a traditional market, Myeongdong’s street food scene is legendary. The area transforms into a food lover’s paradise in the evening, with vendors lining the streets.

Specialties:

• Grilled Lobster (랍스터구이): Topped with cheese and butter.
• Egg Bread (계란빵): A sweet and savory snack with a whole egg baked inside.
• Tornado Potato (회오리감자): Spiral-cut fried potato on a stick.
• Korean BBQ Skewers (꼬치): Grilled meat skewers with various marinades.
• Strawberry Mochi (딸기모찌): Fresh strawberries wrapped in sweet rice cake.

Costs:

• Street food prices range from ₩2,000 to ₩8,000 ($1.50–$6 USD).
• Expect to spend around ₩10,000–₩15,000 ($8–$12 USD) for a satisfying experience.

Cultural Practices:

• Vendors prefer cash, but some accept mobile payments like KakaoPay.
• Eating while walking is generally acceptable here, unlike in other parts of Korea.

Nearby Attractions:

• Myeongdong Cathedral: A historic Catholic church with beautiful architecture.
• Lotte Department Store: A luxury shopping destination nearby.

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5. Noryangjin Fish Market (노량진수산시장)

Overview:
Noryangjin is Seoul’s largest seafood market, offering fresh fish, shellfish, and other seafood. Visitors can purchase seafood and have it prepared on-site at one of the market’s restaurants.

Specialties:

• Hoe (회): Freshly sliced raw fish, similar to sashimi.
• Grilled Shellfish (조개구이): Clams, scallops, and other shellfish grilled with butter and cheese.
• Steamed King Crab (대게): Freshly steamed crab served with dipping sauces.
• Seafood Stew (해물탕): A spicy soup with assorted seafood.

Costs:

• Prices vary depending on the seafood, but expect to pay ₩20,000–₩50,000 ($15–$40 USD) for a meal.
• Bargaining is common when purchasing seafood.

Cultural Practices:

• After buying seafood, take it to a restaurant upstairs or nearby to have it cooked (for an additional fee).
• Be prepared for a lively, bustling atmosphere with vendors calling out to customers.

Nearby Attractions:

• 63 Building: A skyscraper with an observation deck and aquarium.
• Hangang Park: A riverside park perfect for relaxing after a seafood feast.

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Tips for Visiting Food Markets in Seoul:

1. Bring Cash: While some vendors accept cards, cash is still king in most markets.
2. Learn Basic Korean Phrases: Simple phrases like “얼마예요?” (How much is it?) and “감사합니다” (Thank you) go a long way.
3. Go Early or Late: Visit in the morning for fewer crowds or in the evening for the best street food experience.
4. Be Adventurous: Don’t hesitate to try unfamiliar dishes—Korean markets are full of hidden gems.
5. Respect Local Etiquette: Be polite, wait your turn, and clean up after yourself if dining at communal tables.

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Seoul’s food markets are not just places to eat—they’re cultural experiences that offer a glimpse into the city’s history, traditions, and vibrant street life. Whether you’re a foodie or a curious traveler, these markets are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. Enjoy your culinary adventure in Seoul!