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, a few years after the Korean War.
With over 1,000 vendors, the market has become the biggest dried seafood and seaweed markets in Korea.
Most vendors only sell a few items which keeps cost low while maintaining quality. Prices for items here are usually 30% less than 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.
Some of the best 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, an other tasty snacks.
Other than seafood you will find all sorts of vegetables, fruits, breads, and meats including pig, cow, and strangely even dog.
Plan on arriving here earlier in the day as the market tends to start closing up in the early afternoon.
Seoul Jungang Market Information
Hours
12:00-16:00, exact shop times can vary
Closed on Sundays
Admission
Free
Address
22 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
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Book Recommendations
For an immersive guide to Seoul, many travelers choose to bring a book along. Fodor's Seoul, for example, offers detailed recommendations on sights, restaurants, maps, and travel tips.
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Last Updated on Mar 14, 2025