Gwangjang MarketIkseon-dong · Insadong 315
Photo: KTOOpened in 1905, Gwangjang is one of Seoul's oldest permanent markets. It began as a fabric and hanbok market, but today the food stalls in the centre are what draw most visitors.
Signature dishes include bindaetteok (ground mung bean pancakes), yukhoe (beef tartare) and bite-sized "mayak" gimbap. Sitting at a stall counter shoulder to shoulder with locals is the real Gwangjang experience.
Key information
| Hours | Many food stalls open from morning until night (varies). Fabric shops and others close on Sundays |
|---|---|
| Admission | Free (food priced per stall) |
| Time needed | about 1 hours |
| Nearest station | Anguk Stn (Line 3) / Jongno 3-ga Stn (Lines 1, 3, 5) |
| Area | Ikseon-dong · Insadong |
Hours and fees are estimates as of 2026-10 and may change. Please check official sources before you go.
Nearest station: Jongno 5-ga (Line 1). Check prices before ordering, and carry some cash.
Plan a trip with Gwangjang Market
Getting there
| From | Route | Time | Fare (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Incheon Airport | AREX all-stop train → change at Seoul Station → Line 1 | ~79 min | 6,300 KRW |
| Gimpo Airport | AREX (all-stop) → Line 1 | ~40 min | 1,750 KRW |
| Seoul Station | Line 1 | ~12 min | 1,550 KRW |
Times are to the Ikseon-dong · Insadong area's nearest station; walk from there.
Nearby spots
Photo: KTO
Ikseon-dong Hanok StreetIkseon-dong · Insadong · ~1000 mRetro alleys packed with renovated hanok cafés and restaurants.Photo: KTO
Insadong-gil & SsamziegilIkseon-dong · Insadong · ~1.4 kmTraditional crafts, hanji paper and tea houses — great for souvenirs.Photo: KTO
Jongmyo ShrineIkseon-dong · Insadong · ~700 mUNESCO-listed royal shrine. Closed Tuesdays; guided tours only on some days.Photo: KTO
Cheonggyecheon StreamIkseon-dong · Insadong · ~1.9 kmA downtown streamside walkway, beautifully lit at night.Photo: KTO
Photo: KTO
DDP (Dongdaemun Design Plaza)Dongdaemun · ~900 mFuturistic curved architecture with exhibitions, events and night lighting.Photo: KTO
Changdeokgung PalaceGyeongbokgung · Bukchon · ~1.3 kmUNESCO-listed palace. Closed Mondays. Adults ₩3,000 (Secret Garden extra, limited entry).
FAQ
What are the opening hours of Gwangjang Market?
Many food stalls open from morning until night (varies). Fabric shops and others close on Sundays. Please check the official website for the latest information.
How much does Gwangjang Market cost?
Free (food priced per stall).
How do I get to Gwangjang Market?
The nearest station is Anguk Stn (Line 3) / Jongno 3-ga Stn (Lines 1, 3, 5). From Incheon Airport it takes about 79 minutes and costs around ₩6,300.