Introduction
Step into Gwangjang Market (광장시장), Seoul’s oldest traditional market since 1905, where the air hums with sizzling pans, vibrant chatter, and the intoxicating aroma of Korean street food. For foreigners seeking authentic culinary adventures, this labyrinth of over 5,000 stalls is a must-visit. Here’s your insider’s guide to navigating its edible wonders!
1. Why Gwangjang Market?
- History & Culture: More than a market—it’s a living museum. Watch ajummas (Korean aunties) grill pancakes for decades and silk traders hawk fabrics in the same spot for generations.
- Foreigner-Friendly: Many vendors speak basic English, menus often have photos/English labels, and crowds are welcoming to travelers.
- Affordable: Most dishes cost ₩5,000–₩15,000 (≈ $4–$12 USD).
2. Must-Try Foods (With How-to-Eat Tips!)
📍 Bindaetteok (빈대떡) – Mung Bean Pancakes
- What it is: Crispy, savory pancakes made from ground mung beans, veggies, and kimchi. Gluten-free!
- Where to try: Soonhee Bindae-tteok (Stall A01-1)—famous for 50+ years.
- Pro Tip: Dip in soy-vinegar sauce and pair with makgeolli (rice wine).
📍 Mayak Gimbap (마약김밥) – “Drug” Rice Rolls
- What it is: Tiny seaweed rolls stuffed with pickled radish, carrots, and sesame oil. Called “drug” because they’re addictive!
- Where to try: Chungmu Gimbap (Stall B02). Eat with mustard sauce.
📍 Tteokbokki (떡볶이) – Spicy Rice Cakes
- What it is: Chewy rice cakes smothered in sweet-spicy gochujang sauce. Often served with fish cakes (eomuk) and boiled eggs.
- Vendor Tip: Ask for “mild” (jom deopjima) if spice-averse.
📍 Yukhoe (육회) – Korean Beef Tartare
- What it is: Raw beef seasoned with soy, sesame, and pear, topped with egg yolk. Fresher than sushi!
- Safety Note: Reputable stalls like Gohyang Yukhoe (Stall D07) use high-grade hanwoo beef.
📍 Soondae (순대) – Blood Sausage
- What it is: Steamed pork intestine stuffed with noodles, barley, and blood. Sounds wild—tastes earthy and comforting.
- How to eat: Dip in salt-pepper mix or spicy sauce.
3. Navigating Like a Pro
- When to Go: Weekdays 10AM–6PM (less crowded). Avoid Sundays (many stalls closed).
- Finding Stalls: Enter Gate 5 (near Jongno-5ga Station Exit 7) for instant food alley access.
- Etiquette:
- Point & smile if language fails.
- Pay cash (some stalls accept cards).
- Eat standing at shared counters—it’s part of the fun!
4. Beyond Food: Hidden Gems
- Vintage Fashion Alley: Hunt for 80s Korean jackets, silk hanboks, and handmade bags.
- Kimchi Corner: Taste artisanal varieties (radish, cucumber!) for take-home souvenirs.
- Photo Ops: Neon signs, steaming food stalls, and the iconic overhead canopy.
Conclusion: Your Itinerary Starter
Start at 11AM → Try bindaetteok + makgeolli → Grab mayak gimbap to-go → Slurp tteokbokki at a shared table → Brave yukhoe → End with bingsu (shaved ice) nearby. Gwangjang Market isn’t just a meal—it’s Seoul’s heartbeat on a plate.
> Getting There: Jongno-5ga Station (Line 1), Exit 7. 5-min walk.
> Hungry for more? Watch Netflix’s Street Food: Asia (Season 1, Episode 1) featuring Gwangjang’s knife-cut noodle queen!