Gwangjang Market, Seoul

Gwangjang Market is not just one of the city’s oldest markets-it’s its most iconic foodie destination. Established in 1905 as Korea’s first permanent indoor market, it has evolved into a bustling hub that blends tradition and innovation under one roof. Spanning about 42,000 m² with more than 5,000 vendors, the market employs around 20,000 people and welcomes up to 65,000 visitors each day.

The main attraction for most visitors is the food: this is the place to taste some of Seoul’s most beloved traditional dishes. Highlights include crispy mung bean pancakes, chewy blood sausage, named sundae, "mayak" gimbap rolls, and noodle soups. Vendors enthusiastically call out “Sit! SIT!” in a good-natured competition to draw you toward their communal tables.

Beyond the culinary delights, Gwangjang Market is also famous for its textile and clothing shops. On upper levels and in side alleys, you’ll find hanbok vendors, silk bedding suppliers, second-hand clothes, and accessories-many of which have been operated by the same families for generations.

For tourists planning their visit, weekdays between late morning and early evening are ideal: the market is bustling, but lines for the top food stalls are manageable, and vendors are fully open. While weekends are livelier, they also bring larger crowds. Many vendors close by late afternoon or early evening, so an early visit ensures you’ll catch everything before closing time.