Namdaemun Market might not be the top destination for foreign tourist, but it certainly ranks high as a must-visit spot.
Namdaemun Market, located in the heart of Seoul, is one of Korea’s oldest and largest traditional markets. The name “Namdaemun” means “Great Southern Gate,” referring to its location near the southern gate of the old capital, Hanyang (modern-day Seoul).
Today, I’ll share my personal experience to guide you through the culinary delights of this iconic market.
Namdaemun Market Free Parking Tips
Parking at Namdaemun Market is free for 3 hours on weekends and public holidays.
The parking hours are from 10 AM to 6 PM. You can park at the basement level 4 of the Woori Bank headquarters and get a 3-hour free parking ticket from the Namdaemun Tourist Information Center.
Be sure to arrive early as spots fill up quickly. Note that after the 3-hour free period, a fee of 1,000 KRW per 10 minutes applies.
Must-Try Foods at Namdaemun Market
Yachae Hotteok (Vegetable Pancake)
The first street food that comes to mind at Namdaemun Market is “Yachae Hotteok”. You must try it at either the Namdaemun Hotteok or Myeongmul Hotteok stalls. Hotteok is a delicious treat made from flour dough filled with sugar that melts in your mouth. However, be prepared to wait in line!
Price: 2,000 KRW
Kalguksu (Knife-Cut Noodles)
Namdaemun has a street dedicated to Kalguksu, a traditional Korean dish made with broad noodles in broth. The most famous spot is Sejame Sisters Restaurant, where you can enjoy a set of Kalguksu, Naengmyeon (cold noodles), and Boribap (barley rice). The combination is absolutely delicious and reasonably priced.
Price: 8,000 KRW
Galchi Jorim (Braised Cutlassfish)
Namdaemun Market is also known for its street filled with Galchi Jorim restaurants. Galchi Jorim is a traditional Korean dish made with cutlassfish, cooked in a spicy sauce based on gochugaru (Korean red chili powder). The dish combines the tender texture of the fish with a flavorful, slightly spicy seasoning, creating a perfect balance that is both savory and aromatic. It is a beloved part of Korean cuisine, offering a taste of the country’s rich culinary heritage
Wangseong Restaurant(왕성식당) is popular among locals, and Hee Rak Galchi(희락갈치), visited by renowned gourmet Heo Young-man(허영만), is another must-try. Note that Galchi Jorim is usually spicy and is available for orders of two or more people.
Price: Approximately 12,000 KRW per person
Namdaemun Market offers many other culinary delights, but I’ll leave the rest for you to discover.
Enjoy your visit and the incredible food!