Located in Jongno, central Seoul, Changsin-dong Stationery and Toys Wholesale Market — more widely known as Changsin-dong Wangu Alley — is an appealing place not only for the children, but also for many “kidults,” or adults with interests similar to children. This is a place where multiple stationery stores and toy shops are aligned along a portion of a street stretching some 300 meters, beckoning visitors with colorful figurines, appealing cards, cute costumes and charming items to entertain ch

Jongno-gu, one of the most historic districts in Seoul that preserves the city’s rich culture and art, is also a renowned commercial district home to a diversity of traditional Korean markets. From the fashion lover’s go-to Dongdaemun Fashion Wholesale Market to the street food haven of Gwangjang Market, the district boasts old-style markets that appeal to locals and overseas visitors alike. Jongno Sinjin Market might be smaller and lesser-known than other Jongno-gu traditional markets, but it c

Junggok Jeil Market, the largest in Gwangjin-gu, is located in the northern part of the district along the north bank of the Han River at Seoul’s eastern edge. The market features a covered arcade with 134 stores, serving as a key shopping destination for the local community. The market offers just about everything, but its variety of food options ranging from fresh produce to street food is especially popular with visitors. While fruit and vegetables stores are clustered at the market entrance,

'Dokkaebi' market in central Seoul is vintage treasure trove For those who enjoy the lively atmosphere of crowded Dongmyo Flea Market, make sure not to leave the Dongmyo area without visiting Hwanghakdong Flea Market as well. If Dongmyo Flea Market is the equivalent of Hongdae for Korea's baby boomers, or a vintage fashion paradise, Hwanghak-dong Flea Market is a playground for collectors. Located a three- to five-minute walk away from Dongmyo Flea Market, Hwanghak-dong Flea Market is a hotspot

Following Hongdae and Yeonnam-dong, the latest trendy spot for young Koreans is Mangwon Market. Still functioning as a conventional market, it has more recently become a sought-after place among locals and overseas travelers. Once you arrive at the market, the sizzling sounds of deep frying fill the air, accompanied by the sight and aroma of vibrant, sweet-smelling snacks. Though Mangwon Market isn’t very large, it offers all the country’s beloved bunsik, the inexpensive street food ranging from

Delve into vintage, retro vibe The bustling neighborhood of Hongdae in Mapo-gu and Seongsu-dong, a vibrant cultural hub in Seongdong-gu, have been the go-to date spots for many millennials and Gen Zs. But, Korean baby boomers -- those who were born between 1955 to 1974, which is a period when South Korea’s economic development began in earnest -- have Dongmyo Flea Market, which is their own version of Seongsu-dong where cool vibes coming out from almost every shop and store filled with retro ite