​Tongin Market (Seochon, Seoul) had been on my must-visit list for a while. I had wanted to go several times but never found the opportunity, until the day I visited Gyeongbokgung Palace. Since it was nearby, I decided to stop by and experience this traditional yet unique market finally.

The market is conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3). However, I chose to drive and parked at Singyo Public Parking Lot, which is close to the market.

 

Tongin Market Seoul

Compared to other traditional markets in Seoul, Tongin Market is more compact and nestled within Seochon Village. This gives it a charming and peaceful vibe, making it feel less hectic than larger markets.

As soon as I stepped inside, I was greeted by the delicious aroma of various banchan (Korean side dishes) wafting through the air. The sight of neatly arranged side dishes made my mouth water. I thought about picking up some perilla leaf kimchi, which looked especially appetizing.

Near the entrance, I was immediately drawn to a Gireum-Tteokbokki stand, one of the market’s most well-known specialties.

 

Gileum-Tteokbokki

Unlike the usual spicy, saucy tteokbokki, Gireum-Tteokbokki is made by frying rice cakes in oil with red pepper powder. While it had an interesting texture, I personally prefer the traditional spicy version. Maybe I just wasn’t used to this style!

Interestingly, there was another Gireum-Tteokbokki stall right next door, where plenty of people were also giving it a try.

 

Hyoja-dong Dak-kkochi (chicken skewers)

Just past the tteokbokki stalls, I came across a Hyoja-dong chicken skewer stand, and I couldn't resist stopping again.

We tried types of skewers; one with salt and one with wine cheese flavor. The wine-cheese skewer was by far my favorite, it had a rich, slightly tangy flavor that paired perfectly with the juicy chicken.

 

Customer Center

One of the most unique aspects of Tongin Market is its Yeopjeon system.

Yeopjeon were old Korean brass coins with square holes in the center, used during the Joseon Dynasty. At Tongin Market, visitors can exchange modern money for Yeopjeon at the customer service center and use it to buy food at participating vendors.

Unfortunately, I arrived too late to exchange my money, so I missed out on this experience. If you plan to visit, be sure to check the exchange hours, as they differ on weekdays and weekends.

You can recognize participating vendors by a sign in front of their store, indicating that Yeopjeon can be used for purchases.

 

Ssam Gujeolpan (traditional wrap)

For my next food adventure, I stopped by a stall selling Ssam Gujeolpan, a traditional dish made up of nine different ingredients wrapped in fresh vegetables.

The Ssam was light, refreshing, and felt incredibly healthy, like eating a little taste of nature. It was a nice contrast to the fried and grilled foods I had tried earlier.

 

Bugak (crispy fried seaweed chips)

Near the market’s exit, I spotted a stall selling Bugak, which are crispy fried seaweed chips. They looked so tempting, but I was already getting full.

Right next to it was a shop selling Gimbap (seaweed rolls) and Dakgangjeong (sweet crispy fried chicken), both of which smelled amazing. However, by this point, I had reached my limit, I simply couldn’t eat another bite!

After walking through the entire market, I found myself in Seochon Village. It was lovely to see locals sitting together in a pavilion, enjoying the food they had picked up from the market.

If you ever find yourself near Gyeongbokgung Palace or Seochon Village, I highly recommend stopping by Tongin Market. Whether you try the Yeopjeon lunchbox experience, snack on Gireum-Tteokbokki, or simply take in the cozy atmosphere, it’s a great place to experience a blend of history, tradition, and delicious street food.

 

Address : 18 Jahamun-ro 15-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul OPEN GOOGLE MAP

Phone : +82-2-722-0911

Operation Hours : Monday-Sunday : 07:00 - 21:00 (Dosirak cafe : 11:00 - 16:00)

Instagram : Check out more photos

 

Source : https://blog.naver.com/tourandstory/223056509054

Writer : tourandstory

Special thanks to tourandstory

 

tongin market seoul sechon gyeongbokgung