One of the things I fell in love with when I moved to Seoul is its markets. They’re not just places to shop; they’re vibrant, chaotic, and full of life, history, and some of the best food you’ll ever taste. Each one has its own unique personality. After three years of exploring, I’ve definitely found my favorites.
If you really want to dive into the local culture, you have to visit a market. Here’s a list of my top 10 famous markets in Seoul that you absolutely can’t miss:
1. Namdaemun Market (남대문시장)
This is the big one—the oldest and largest traditional market in Korea. It’s a sprawling labyrinth of stalls selling just about everything you can imagine, from clothes and souvenirs to kitchenware and camera equipment.
It’s a true sensory overload in the best way possible. It’s open 24/7, but the real magic is during the day. Don’t leave without trying the “hotteok” (sweet griddle cakes) from one of the famous stalls or diving into “Kalguksu Alley” for a delicious bowl of handmade noodle soup. It’s a must-visit for first-timers.
Namdaemun Market is in central Seoul, a city that’s also home to top Korean universities like Seoul National University and Yonsei University. If you like to visit the campus, you can take a tour.
2. Dongdaemun Market (동대문 시장)
While Namdaemun is traditional, Dongdaemun is the king of fashion. It’s a huge complex of shopping malls and wholesale buildings that stay open late into the night.
If you love shopping, this is your paradise. It’s famous for its trendy, affordable Korean fashion. The area comes alive after 10 p.m. when the wholesale markets open, making it a unique, nocturnal shopping experience. It’s perfect for finding unique pieces that you won’t see back home.
3. Noryangjin Fish Market (노량진 수산시장)
An enormous wholesale fish market that’s buzzing with energy, especially during the early morning auctions.
For the experience! You can walk through the stalls, pick out your own fresh seafood (from live octopus to giant king crabs), and then take it to one of the restaurants upstairs to have it prepared for you on the spot. It doesn’t get any fresher than this. It’s a wild, fascinating, and delicious adventure.
4. Gwangjang Market (광장시장)
One of the oldest and most beloved markets, famous for one thing above all else: food.
This is my go-to spot when I have friends visiting. You come here to eat. Find a spot on a bench in the middle of the market and order “bindaetteok” (mung bean pancakes) and “mayak gimbap” (addictive seaweed rice rolls). The atmosphere is incredible, and it’s a great place to try a little bit of everything. It was even featured on a Netflix show!
5. Garak Market (가락시장)
A massive wholesale market for agricultural and marine products. It’s less of a tourist spot and more of an authentic, functioning wholesale hub.
If you want to see the sheer scale of where Seoul gets its best dishes, this place is mind-boggling. While it’s primarily for wholesale, there are retail sections and restaurants where you can get incredibly fresh produce and seafood at great prices. It’s an eye-opening look into the city’s food supply chain.
6. Hwanghak-dong Flea Market (황학동 벼룩시장)
Also known as the “Manmul” (All Things) Market, this is a treasure trove of antiques, second-hand goods, and strange collectibles.
For the thrill of the hunt. You can find anything here, from vintage electronics and old records to military surplus and quirky home decor. It’s a fascinating place to wander through, even if you don’t buy anything. You never know what you might discover.
7. Gyeongdong Market (경동시장)
One of the largest traditional medicine and agricultural markets in the country.
The moment you step in, you’ll be hit by the strong, earthy smell of herbs and roots. It’s a fascinating place to explore the world of traditional Korean medicine (hanbang). You’ll see ginseng, dates, and countless other ingredients you’ve never heard of. It feels like stepping back in time.
8. Tongin Market (통인시장)
A smaller, charming market known for a unique and fun experience.
For the “Dosirak” (lunchbox) cafe! You buy a handful of old-fashioned brass coins, get an empty lunch tray, and then walk through the market, trading your coins for small portions of different foods from various stalls. It’s a super fun and interactive way to sample a variety of Korean dishes.
9. Seoul Folk Flea Market (서울풍물시장)
A large, organized indoor market that sells everything from vintage clothing and folk items to everyday goods and souvenirs.
It’s a bit more organized than Hwanghak-dong, making it easier to navigate. It’s a great place to find unique souvenirs and gifts that are more interesting than the standard tourist fare. There’s also a section dedicated to recreating what Seoul looked like in the 1960s and 70s.
10. Chung Pyung Hwa Market (청평화시장)
Part of the massive Dongdaemun shopping town, this market specializes in wholesale women’s apparel.
While primarily for wholesale buyers, many shops will sell to individuals, especially if you pay with cash. If you’re serious about fashion and want to see where many smaller boutiques get their inventory, this place is an eye-opener. It’s less for casual browsing and more for the dedicated shopper.
No matter which market you choose, you’re in for an adventure. Wear comfortable shoes, bring cash, and go with an empty stomach. Happy exploring!
