Gwangjang Market: A Must-Visit Food and Shopping Paradise in Seoul

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When visiting Seoul, experiencing traditional markets is a must, and Gwangjang Market is one of the best places to immerse yourself in Korean culture. With a history spanning over 120 years, this vibrant market is filled with delicious street food, unique vintage finds, and colorful hanbok stores. Whether you're a foodie, a bargain hunter, or a culture enthusiast, Gwangjang Market offers something for everyone.

 

Why Visit Gwangjang Market?

Located in the heart of Seoul, Gwangjang Market is one of the city’s most famous traditional markets, drawing both locals and tourists alike. It’s easy to access, making it a great destination even for first-time visitors. Here’s what makes it special:

 

A Food Lover’s Paradise

One of the biggest highlights of Gwangjang Market is its mouthwatering street food. Some of the must-try dishes include:

Mayak Gimbap (마약김밥) – Bite-sized seaweed rice rolls served with a slightly addictive mustard dipping sauce.

Bindaetteok (빈대떡) – A crispy mung bean pancake made fresh on the spot.

Assorted Jeon (모둠전) – A variety of savory Korean pancakes, perfect for trying different flavors.

Tteokbokki (떡볶이) & Odeng (오뎅) – Spicy rice cakes and fish cakes on skewers, perfect for a quick and satisfying snack.

Gwangjang Market's food alley (먹자골목) stays open until 11 PM, making it an ideal place for a late-night food adventure.

Mayak Gimbap (마약김밥)

 

 

Vintage Shopping & Hanbok Experience

Beyond food, Gwangjang Market is also known for its secondhand clothing and hanbok shops. If you love vintage fashion, head to the second floor, where you'll find an impressive collection of retro outfits, designer pieces, and unique accessories at great prices.

For those interested in Korean traditional clothing, the hanbok shops offer beautifully crafted hanboks in a variety of colors and designs. Whether you want to buy one or just take pictures, it’s an unforgettable experience.

 

How to Get to Gwangjang Market

Gwangjang Market is conveniently located near Jongno 5-ga Station (Line 1).

📍 Exit 8 – Walk just 1 minute (62m) from the station, and you’ll find yourself in the heart of the market.

 

광장시장 · 서울특별시 종로구 창경궁로 88

 

 

Nearby Attractions

Make the most of your visit by exploring these nearby landmarks:

Seun Arcade (세운상가) – A historic electronics and creative hub.

Jongmyo Shrine (종묘) – A UNESCO World Heritage site, home to the royal ancestral tablets of the Joseon Dynasty.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP, 동대문디자인플라자) – A futuristic architectural landmark, great for design lovers and night photography.

Discover DDP: The Heart of Seoul’s Design & Innovation!

 

Market Hours

General Market: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Food Alley (먹자골목): 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Vintage & Clothing Section: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM

 

A Brief History of Gwangjang Market

Gwangjang Market was founded in 1905 by Korean merchants who sought to reclaim control of Seoul’s market economy from foreign traders. Originally, the market was intended to be built between Gwanggyo (廣橋) and Janggyo (長橋)—hence the name "Gwangjang." However, it was ultimately established in Ihyeon (이현), also known as Baeogae (배오개). The name "Gwangjang (廣藏)" later took on the meaning of "widely gathering and preserving goods."

During the Japanese colonial era, Gwangjang Market, along with Namdaemun Market, became one of Seoul’s major markets. After the Korean War, it flourished as a center for textiles, secondhand goods, and food.

Today, Gwangjang Market remains an iconic destination, preserving Korea’s traditional market culture while continuously attracting new generations of visitors.

[연광정연화로] 국립중앙박물관

Plan Your Visit!

If you're traveling to Seoul and looking for an authentic and vibrant experience, Gwangjang Market is a must-visit. Whether you're here for the incredible street food, the unique shopping, or the rich history, you won’t be disappointed.

Have you visited Gwangjang Market? Let us know your favorite food or shopping finds in the comments below!