Yeongcheon Market is a small traditional market in Seodaemun-gu, located between Seodaemun Station and Dongnimmun Station. Established in the 1960s, this covered single-alley market has about 130 stores selling street food, produce, fruit, meat, seafood, toys, shoes, and more.
Even though it is compact, Yeongcheon Market offers a wide range of products at affordable prices. As you walk along the 250-meter (820-foot) alley, you will notice many shops selling similar goods such as vegetables, meat, garlic, seafood, dried peppers, and spices.
If you are looking for a specific item, walk through the entire market first and compare price and quality before buying. Bargaining can help, especially when purchasing fruit, which can be expensive.
If you visit on Friday, some stores offer discounts. Look for banners in front of participating shops.
Popular foods to try at Yeongcheon Market include tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), kkwabaegi (twisted doughnuts), and twigim (fried foods). Many of these shops became well known after appearing on TV, including SBS’s Baek Jong-won’s Top 3 Chef King. Look for TV posters displayed on storefronts.
Food is the biggest draw at Yeongcheon Market, but you can also find children’s toys, clothing, shoes, stationery, onggi (Korean earthenware pots), secondhand books, and daily necessities. Some shops even carry nostalgic retro toys.
The main entrance is a short walk north of Seodaemun Station (Exit 2). The north end of the market is across from Dongnimmun Gate (Independence Gate), Seodaemun Independence Park, and Dongnimmun Station (Exit 4).
Foods to try at Yeongcheon Market
Tteokbokki
Tteokbokki is one of Korea’s most popular street foods. It is made with chewy rice cakes in a spicy red chili sauce and can be found everywhere, from street stalls to restaurants. At Yeongcheon Market, a special seasoning is added before stir-frying, creating a flavorful version that is tasty without being overly spicy.
Click here to read more about tteokbokki.
Kkwabaegi
Kkwabaegi are Korean twisted doughnuts made with glutinous rice flour or yeasted wheat dough and butter. They are deep-fried, then coated with sugar and cinnamon. The result is fluffy, sweet, and popular with all ages. Go early, since freshly made batches often sell out.
Twigim
Twigim means Korean-style fried foods, similar to Japanese tempura. Meat or vegetables are battered and deep-fried until crisp and golden. Like many fried snacks, twigim is a staple at markets throughout Seoul.
Yeongcheon Market Information
Hours
Hours vary for each store
Admission
Free
Address
Seoul, South Korea
GPS Coordinates: 37.56964, 126.96260
Map
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Last Updated on Feb 6, 2026