Step into Gwangjang Market's famed food alley, and be prepared to embark on a delicious odyssey. Aromatic wafts of sizzling nokdu-jeon (mung bean pancakes) and wanja (meat patties) cooked fresh on the spot will whet your appetite. But that's just the beginning. Gwangjang Market boasts a mind-boggling array of Korean delicacies, from bite-sized kimbap and bibimbap to melt-in-your-mouth yukhoe (raw beef tartare) and fiery tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes). Don't forget to try dalgona, the trendy sugar honeycomb that's become a social media sensation.
These culinary gems can be savored at cozy indoor restaurants or at the market's lively outdoor food stalls, where you can soak up the infectious energy as you devour your meal.
Beyond the food stalls, Gwangjang Market transforms into a shopper's paradise. The fabric section boasts high-quality textiles at unbelievably affordable prices. Take your pick and head to one of the nearby tailors to create a custom-made hanbok (traditional Korean dress) or a modern suit at a fraction of the cost you'd find in department stores.
A short stroll across the Cheonggyecheon leads you to Bangsan Market, a wholesale wonderland specializing in everything from bakery equipment and printing supplies to interior design materials.
Here, you'll also find a local favorite – a renowned kimchi stew restaurant where diners can wrap their stew's pork belly in a variety of fresh vegetables, making for a truly interactive dining experience.
For those seeking essential Korean pantry staples, Jungang Market, Korea's premier dried seafood market, awaits. Stock up on dried seaweed, kelp, yellow corvina, anchovies, squid, and fish jerky at bargain prices – perfect for both home cooks and restaurant owners.
Next to Gwangjang Market, Jongno Sinjin Market offers a taste of Korea's rich culinary heritage. This market is renowned for its steaming bowls of whole chicken soup, perfectly grilled fish, and adventurous options like gopchang (grilled intestines).
Outdoor enthusiasts won't be disappointed either. Jongno Sinjin Market boasts a wide selection of high-quality hiking gear at competitive prices. And for a touch of history, traditional iron foundries selling agricultural tools and metal implements offer a glimpse into Korea's industrial roots.
Gwangjang Market is more than just a market; it's a cultural experience that encapsulates the essence of Seoul. So, come hungry, come curious, and come ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of this one-of-a-kind destination.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.
