The Ultimate Guide to Gwangjang Market (광장시장)

Where Seoul’s Flavors, Stories, and Textures Come Alive

 

 

🍜 A Century-Old Market Full of Life

 

Founded in 1905, Gwangjang Market is one of Seoul’s oldest and busiest traditional markets. Originally famous for its silk and hanbok fabrics, it gradually transformed into a street food wonderland known across the world.

Located between Jongno 5-ga and Euljiro 4-ga Stations, this massive indoor maze brings together the essence of Seoul — old and new, chaos and charm, all under one roof. Expect sizzling pans, sesame oil perfume, and vendors calling out “come, taste!” with wide smiles.

 

🧭 How to Navigate the Market (and Not Get Lost)

 

Main Entrances

• Gate 1 (Jongno 5-ga side) – Best for textiles, fabrics, and hanbok.
• Gate 2 (Euljiro 4-ga side) – Direct access to the street food alleys and bindaetteok stalls.
• Gate 3 (Cheonggyecheon Stream side) – Quieter route, perfect for entering around lunch hours.

Tip: The food zone lies mainly at the center and north section of the market — follow the smell of pancakes and sesame oil.

 

Best Route (1h30–2h visit)

1. Start at the Euljiro 4-ga entrance for pancakes (bindaetteok).
2. Move north to the noodle alleys for kalguksu and mandu.
3. Turn left into the yukhoe section for beef tartare.
4. End upstairs in the vintage clothing market for a cool-down stroll.

Map tip: Search “Gwangjang Market Food Alley (광장시장 먹자골목)” on Naver Maps for the exact food zone.

 

🍽️ What to Eat – The Ultimate Food List

🔥 Must-Try Icons (Seen on Netflix or Viral)

 

 

• Kalguksu (칼국수) – Hand-cut noodles in rich broth; try Yoon Sun-ja’s stall, made famous by Street Food: Asia.
• Mayak Gimbap (마약김밥) – Addictive mini gimbap rolls dipped in spicy mustard sauce.
• Bindaetteok (빈대떡) – Crunchy mung bean pancakes fried golden on large skillets.
• Yukhoe (육회) – Korean beef tartare, served with egg yolk and pear slices for sweetness.

 

🥢 For the Curious and Brave

• Soondae (순대) – Korean blood sausage with noodles and herbs; pair it with tteokbokki sauce.
• Nakji-tangtangi (낙지탕탕이) – Fresh chopped raw octopus, still moving — not for everyone, but unforgettable.
• Sundae-guk (순댓국) – Soup made from pork broth and blood sausage, hearty and authentic.
• Kkomjangeo (꼼장어) – Spicy grilled eel pieces with chili paste — smoky and bold.

 

 

🍚 Comfort Classics

• Bibimbap (비빔밥) – Warm rice with vegetables, sesame oil, and gochujang.
• Tteokbokki (떡볶이) – Soft rice cakes in sweet-spicy chili sauce.
• Mandu (만두) – Juicy dumplings, steamed or pan-fried, perfect comfort snack.
• Hotteok (호떡) – Fried pancake stuffed with cinnamon sugar — best dessert here.
• Jeon (전) – Savory fritters with shrimp, kimchi, or green onion, often enjoyed with makgeolli (rice wine).

 

 

🧂 Hidden Local Favorites

• Jokbal (족발) – Soy-braised pig’s trotters, usually shared with friends and a glass of soju.
• Eomuk-tang (어묵탕) – Fish cake soup on sticks; light and soothing between heavier dishes.
• Home-style Gimbap – Look for ajummas rolling them fresh without fancy fillings — it’s the true Korean lunchbox taste.

 

 

🛍️ Beyond the Food – Explore Like a Local

 

Hanbok & Textile Zone – On the southern side, dozens of shops sell silk fabrics, lace, and hanbok materials. You can even have one tailor-made on-site.

Vintage Heaven (2nd Floor) – The upper floor hides one of Seoul’s most famous vintage clothing zones. Expect racks of 80s denim, varsity jackets, and army coats from 10,000 won. It’s cash-friendly and closes earlier (around 19:00).

Makgeolli & Pancake Alley – In the heart of the market, locals gather around metal tables to drink makgeolli and eat bindaetteok — join them, they’ll likely toast with you!

 

📸 Tips for the Perfect Visit

 

 

• Best Time to Go: 10:00–11:00 AM for calmer alleys, or 18:00–20:00 for the night buzz
• Metro Access: Jongno 5-ga (Line 1, Exit 7) / Euljiro 4-ga (Line 2, Exit 4).
• Payment: Cash preferred; many accept cards or KakaoPay.
• What to Bring: Wet wipes, cash, reusable chopsticks if you have them.
• Apps: Naver Map or KakaoMap for directions, Papago for quick translations.
• Circulation Tip: Keep right when walking — narrow alleys get crowded fast.
• Waste Tip: Trash bins are rare; vendors often take back your plate or cup.
• Photography: Ask politely — most vendors love it, especially if you buy first.

 

🌆 A Taste You’ll Never Forget

 

Gwangjang Market is Seoul in one bite — intense, emotional, chaotic, and deeply human. You don’t just eat here; you share stories, smiles, and a piece of Korea’s soul.

If you try just one thing in Seoul, make it at Gwangjang Market.