Seoul Central Market, also known as Seoul Jungang Market, is a traditional market located east of Heunginjimun Gate (Dongdaemun) that specializes in dried fish and other seafood. The market dates back to 1957, shortly after the Korean War. With over 1,000 vendors, the market has become one of the largest dried seafood and seaweed markets in Korea.
Seoul Central Market Information
- Name: Seoul Central Market / Seoul Jungang Market (Korean: 서울중앙시장)
- Location: Hwanghak-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul, east of Heunginjimun Gate (Dongdaemun)
- Address: 36 Toegye-ro 85-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
- Nearest Station: Sindang Station, Exit 2, Subway Lines 2 and 6
- Hours: Generally 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM; hours vary by individual shop; closed every third Sunday of the month
- Admission: Free
Most vendors only sell a few items, which helps keep costs low while maintaining quality. Prices for items here are usually 30% lower than at other shops in Seoul.
Traditional markets, such as Seoul Jungang Market, are great examples of real Korean life. Many of these types of markets have disappeared over the years as Seoul has grown and modernized and as bigger markets and shopping centers have moved in.
High-quality anchovies can be found here. The best-tasting anchovies are caught during the warmer months between July and September. Other seafood found here includes dried pollack, squid, filefish, laver, corbina, and other tasty snacks.
Other than seafood, you will find all sorts of vegetables, fruits, bread, and meats, including beef and pork.
Plan on arriving earlier in the day, as the market tends to start closing up in the early afternoon.
Seoul Central Market Information
Hours
Daily: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Admission
Free
Address
36 Toegye-ro 85-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
GPS Coordinates: 37.565794,127.019655
How to Get Here
Take Subway Line 2 or Line 6 to Singdang Station (Exit 1).
Turn left when exiting and walk 150m to reach the market on the left.
Map
Additional Resources
Klook
Klook offers discounted tickets and reservations for attractions and services in Seoul, from theme parks and museums to tours and transportation.
Viator by TripAdvisor
Book tours, activities, and unique experiences in Seoul, from sightseeing to cultural events and outdoor adventures, offered by local providers.
Rakuten
Save with cashback on hotels and travel services. Sign up and you could earn $30 cashback on your first purchase over $30.
Book Recommendations
Prefer a physical guide? Fodor’s Seoul offers detailed recommendations, maps, and travel tips for the city.
Nearby Sights
Hwanghak-dong Flea Market
Hwanghak-dong Flea Market is just a short walk south of Dongmyo Flea Market, but it has a very different feel. While Dongmyo is known for secondhand clothing, Hwanghak-dong has more of a mix of antiques, collectibles, hardware, cameras, tools, and…
Dongmyo Shrine
Dongmyo Shrine is a shrine where ancestral sacrifices to the Chinese military commander Guan Yu were performed. It is also known as Seoul Donggwanwangmyo, which means Gwanwangmyo in the east of Seoul. The streets around the shrine are also home…
Dongmyo Flea Market
With about 600 stalls, Dongmyo Flea Market is one of Seoul’s largest flea markets and a popular place to shop for vintage clothing, antiques, secondhand goods, and hidden treasures. Located around Dongmyo Shrine, the market is known for its affordable…
Gwanghuimun Gate
Gwanghuimun Gate, literally meaning "Bright Light Gate," is one of eight gates found on the fortress wall that surrounds the city of Seoul. Gwanghuimun is one of four small gates located along the southeast area of the fortress wall. In…
Seoul Folk Flea Market
The Seoul Folk Flea Market is a vibrant indoor flea market where you can find traditional and modern Korean folk items including clothes, tools, and food. Almost anything you can think of is sold here including new, old, rare, and…
Last Updated on May 2, 2026