Gwangjang Market — Attraction in Seoul

Gwangjang Market: A Feast for the Senses (Mostly!) - 4/5 Stars Gwangjang Market in Seoul had been on my "must-visit" list for ages, largely thanks to its starring role in various travel shows. And let me tell you, it truly is a place that comes alive, a vibrant, chaotic, and utterly delicious assault on the senses. While it wasn't quite perfect, it delivered an experience I won't soon forget.

Stepping into Gwangjang was like walking into a painting, but one that's constantly moving and buzzing with sound. The air was thick with the most incredible smells – sizzling savory pancakes, spicy tteokbokki, sweet pastries, and an underlying aroma of something uniquely, deliciously Korean. Every stall was a riot of color, with mountains of freshly prepared food tempting you at every turn.

My personal mission was the Bindaetteok (mung bean pancake), and it did not disappoint. Crispy on the outside, soft and flavorful on the inside, it was exactly as I'd imagined. I found a cozy spot at a shared table, squeezed in between locals and other curious travelers, and savored every bite. It felt so authentic, so ingrained in the daily life of Seoul.

I also couldn't resist trying the Mayak Gimbap, those "addictive" mini rice rolls. They truly live up to their name – small, flavorful, and incredibly easy to pop one after another! And of course, a cup of Makgeolli (rice wine) felt like the perfect accompaniment to all the savory goodness. The lively chatter, the clatter of dishes, the friendly shouts of the vendors – it all added to an atmosphere that was genuinely electric.

However, I have to be honest, it was crowded. Like, really crowded. Especially in the main food alley, navigating felt less like a leisurely stroll and more like a human-powered current. Finding a seat at some of the most popular stalls was a challenge, and at times, it felt a little overwhelming. I also noticed a slight feeling that some stalls, especially those prominently featured on TV, might be a little more geared towards tourists with slightly higher prices. It didn't ruin the experience, but it was a fleeting thought.

Overall, Gwangjang Market is an absolute must-visit for any food lover in Seoul. It's a place where you don't just eat, you experience Korean culture with every bite. The energy is infectious, the food is undeniably delicious, and the memories you make will be incredibly vivid. Just be prepared for the crowds, embrace the chaos, and go with an empty stomach and an adventurous spirit! You'll leave feeling full, happy, and truly connected to the...

Gwangjang Market in Seoul is a vibrant culinary paradise and a must-visit destination for food lovers. Known for its bustling atmosphere, authentic Korean street food, and deep cultural heritage, the market offers an unforgettable experience. Walking through its narrow aisles, you’re immediately immersed in a sensory overload—the sizzling sounds of grills, the steam rising from giant pots of boiling broth, and the rich aroma of fried treats and spicy stews. Every corner bursts with energy as vendors call out to attract customers while meticulously preparing their signature dishes. Adding to the charm of Gwangjang Market is its global recognition, highlighted by its feature on Netflix’s Street Food.

One of the highlights of my visit was the mandu, traditional Korean dumplings that are a staple in the market. These dumplings were exceptional—plump, juicy, and bursting with flavor. There was an assortment to choose from, including traditional pork and vegetable-filled mandu, as well as spicy kimchi dumplings. Each bite was hearty and satisfying, a testament to the expertise of the vendor preparing them. The sight of freshly steamed dumplings piled high on a metal tray was both inviting and mouth-watering, adding to the excitement of the experience.

Another memorable treat was the kkwabaegi, a twisted Korean doughnut. Served warm in a charming little cup decorated with an adorable cartoon character, it was crispy on the outside, yet delightfully soft and fluffy on the inside. The generous coating of sugar added the perfect amount of sweetness, making it an indulgent yet comforting snack.

The ambiance of Gwangjang Market is a sensory symphony. The tightly packed food stalls, the chatter of vendors, and the clinking of utensils create a vibrant and chaotic harmony. It’s not just a market; it feels like a living, breathing cultural hub. Despite the rush and constant flow of visitors, the vendors remain warm and welcoming. They serve each dish with pride, often taking a moment to explain what they’ve prepared or sharing a smile that transcends...

1/2024 It's a very long overdue posting, but I needed to share as I'm headed back exactly one year later, and I am looking forward to visiting this market again. As I was skimming some of the posts, I was a little taken aback by some of the comments. While a newbie, I was born in Seoul and wanted to absorb as much as I could. It was my first visit to this beautiful country, its culture, and its wonderful people. My main reason for putting this location on my list was not only because of its size and the number of vendors, but a story. I wanted to meet the knife cut noodles lady I had seen on Netflix. Yes, of course it's touristy. Yes, of course, it's crowded, can be repetitive, and just okay food wise. It's an open market. As a tourist or foodie, you go to experience cheap eats at these types of places. Sure, it can be oily, bland, nothing special to some. If it's not your cup of tea, move on. For me, it's the stories, told and untold that I respect and admire behind the mung bean pancakes with minced meat, or the live baby octopus with raw meat and raw egg that I keep forgetting the name of. It's the hard-working people just trying to make a living the only way they know how or is available to them. What a place and experience if you look past the wonderful food offerings. The really nice people that I engaged with, offering me something out of my realm to taste, and just being so nice about saying hello, using food to engage strangers. Yes, they're working, but don't we all at some point? I was happy just to taste her noodles (not being a huge noodle guy myself), just because. And her and her son were nice enough to pose for a quick selfie to a stranger / customer from another part of the world. Now that's a good story. Give this market with its sights and sounds a try with a humble lense, and you'll appreciate the food / culture even more. 😉🤙✌️

1/2025 Stay tuned. Hana Hou on the mung bean...