Opened in 1905, Gwangjang Market is Korea's first permanent daily market and one of Seoul's most iconic traditional markets, right in the heart of Jongno. Alongside stalls selling silk, hanbok and vintage clothing, it became world-famous for street food such as bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), mayak gimbap and yukhoe, drawing tens of thousands of visitors a day. Since being featured on Netflix's Street Food, it has become a must-visit stop for international travelers.
Bindaetteok - thick mung bean pancakes fried fresh from batter ground on the spot, the market's signature dish
Bite-sized 'mayak' (addictive) gimbap dipped in mustard sauce, and yukhoe, Korean-style raw beef tartare
The buzzing, elbow-to-elbow atmosphere of the narrow food-stall alley (meokjagolmok)
Second-floor hanbok shops and the vintage-clothing stalls popular with young Koreans
Textile, embroidery and bedding shops, plus a central location linking Jongno 5-ga and Euljiro 4-ga
Good to know
CautionSome stalls have repeatedly drawn criticism for overcharging tourists or serving skimpy portions. Check the price and portion before ordering, and always ask first if no price is displayed.
MannersThe food alley is narrow with limited seating. Once you finish eating, don't linger; give up your seat to the people waiting in line behind you.
SafetyLunchtime (noon-2 pm) and weekend evenings get extremely crowded. Watch for pickpockets and tripping hazards, and wear your bag on the front.
RulesMany textile and hanbok shops close on Sundays. If shopping is your goal, avoid visiting on a Sunday.
MannersMany street stalls take cash or bank transfer only and may not accept cards. Bringing some small cash makes things easier.
SeasonThe half-indoor, half-outdoor layout gets hot and humid in summer and the alleys are cold in winter. Dress for the season.
Practical info
Food alley open daily approx. 9 am-11 pm; general textile/hanbok shops around 9 am-6 pm, closed Sundays (confirm latest hours). Right by Exit 8 of Jongno 5-ga Station (Line 1), or a short walk from Euljiro 4-ga Station (Lines 2 & 5). Address: 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul. Prices vary by stall, so check on site.
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Sources · Visit Seoul official tourism site (visitseoul.net) · Visit Korea (visitkorea.or.kr) · Wikipedia - Gwangjang Market · Korean news reports on overcharging controversy (Newsis/MBC, 2023-2025)
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