Gwangjang Market
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What people say
Melissa Schwedhelm
Available for hire
"Gwangjang Market is one of Seoul’s oldest traditional markets and a paradise for food lovers. It's a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the authentic flavors of Korean street food.
Local Tip
Head there early in the day or around lunchtime for the best variety of food and a bustling atmosphere.
Don’t Miss:
Bindaetteok (Mung Bean Pancakes)
A crispy, savory pancake made from ground mung beans. It's deep-fried to perfection and served with a dipping sauce.
Mayak Kimbap (Addictive Rice Rolls)
These small rice rolls are packed with flavor and are known for being "addictive" due to their simplicity and taste. They’re filled with pickled radish, spinach, and a dash of sesame oil.
Live Seafood Option
You’ll find fresh squid and other seafood at some stalls, often grilled or served as sashimi.
Kkwa-baegi (Twisted Donut)
Chewy and Sweet Donut from a popular store located at the Exit located by the Cheonggyecheon. The chewiness is due to the rice four that it's made with. This is also what differentiates it from a regular donut.
Cost
Around ₩5,000 - ₩10,000 per dish (great value for money!)
Opening Times
09:00 - 23:00 "
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Lara
Available for hire
"Gwangjang Market is probably the most well-known traditional market in Seoul. The market is located in central Seoul and was established in 1905.
The market is known for its wide array of foods.
Some of the most popular dishes include:
Bindaetteok: Mung bean pancakes that are a staple at the market
Mayak Kimbap: Small, addictive rice rolls that are a hit among visitors
Yukhoe: Seasoned raw beef akin to Korean-style steak tartare
Soondae: Korean blood sausage made with noodles and pork blood
Tteokbokki: Spicy stir-fried rice cakes, a beloved Korean snack
In recent years, Gwangjang Market rose to fame through a Netflix documentary that showcases the life of one of the vendors. This made the already popular market even more famous and consequently more touristy. I still think the market is worth a visit, especially if you want to try Korean street food. However, do expect large crowds if you visit.
The general market operates from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM, while the food stalls typically stay open until 11:00 PM. While the food and vintage clothing sections are open every day, other vendors may be closed on Sundays. "
Kelly Foo
"Gwangjang is Korea’s first permanent market. The first floor is full of little restaurants and stalls selling food, while the upstairs sells silk, satin and linens. The ceiling is decorated with flags from various countries, a move by the government to attract more visitors to the once deteriorating market, which actually works!
Get all your shopping done in this market! Gwangjang Market was featured on Netflix's show (Street Food Asia) and is well known for its delicious Korean street food. It dates back to 1905 and attracts thousands of people for shopping and eating. This market is also famous as a vintage flea market to get unique finds and bargains. There are over 5,000 shops in this area and you can buy imported clothes and other knick-nacks.
Best for finding snacks, condiments and trying street food. This market is the place to try bindaetteok (mung-bean pancakes), soondae (blood sausage) and gimbap (seaweed rice roll that looks like sushi)."
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About Gwangjang Market
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