
1913 Songjeong Station Market
A retro-themed street market in Gwangju, offering nostalgic shops, delicious Korean street food, and unique photo opportunities.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More vendors and lively atmosphere

1913 Songjeong Station Market
Best Time
More vendors and lively atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A retro-themed street market in Gwangju, offering nostalgic shops, delicious Korean street food, and unique photo opportunities.
"It really had the old-fashioned vibe which I personally loved."

🎯 Embrace the Retro Charm
It's more of a themed street than a traditional market, so enjoy the nostalgic vibe!
🍜 Sample Local Delicacies
Don't miss out on delicious Korean street food like fried chicken and ramen.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Retro Eateries
Throughout the market street
Indulge in classic Korean street food like fried chicken, ramen, and rice cakes in charming, old-school settings.

Themed Shops
Along the main street
Explore unique shops with a nostalgic, retro aesthetic, offering a glimpse into the past.

Photo Booth Fun
Specific locations within the market
Capture fun, old-fashioned memories at the market's popular photo booths.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Retro Vibe
Timing is Key for Lively Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Embrace the Retro Charm
It's more of a themed street than a traditional market, so enjoy the nostalgic vibe!
🍜 Sample Local Delicacies
Don't miss out on delicious Korean street food like fried chicken and ramen.
📸 Capture Memories
Take advantage of the fun photo booths for unique souvenirs.
🚗 Parking Availability
Street parking and a dedicated lot are available nearby.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Embrace the Retro Charm
It's more of a themed street than a traditional market, so enjoy the nostalgic vibe!
🍜 Sample Local Delicacies
Don't miss out on delicious Korean street food like fried chicken and ramen.
📸 Capture Memories
Take advantage of the fun photo booths for unique souvenirs.
🚗 Parking Availability
Street parking and a dedicated lot are available nearby.
🚶♀️ Stroll and Explore
It's a great place for a relaxed walk and soaking in the atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the unique retro atmosphere and the variety of delicious Korean street food available, with many enjoying the nostalgic charm and photo opportunities. However, some reviews mention that certain establishments can be closed, leading to a quieter experience than expected, and suggest it might be more popular with tourists than locals.
"Such a nice area to have a stroll and have some local food, snacks or drinks! It really had the old-fashioned vibe which I personally loved 🩷😊"
Karolina Palussek
"A historic old market street with old shops selling food. Some converted to more modern cafes, while others retain their old fashion charm. Worth a visit to soak in the atmosphere and pick on some street snacks. Street parking and parking lot available nearby."
Mihwa Lee
"They're trying their best. Some good stores and street food. The brewery was a nice surprise and really the only place besides the German restaurant that was attracting crowds."
Chris DiGennaro
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The market is located right in front of Songjeong Station in Gwangju. You can easily reach it by public transportation, including buses and the subway. Many visitors arrive via the subway and then take a short walk.
Yes, there is street parking and a parking lot available nearby for visitors who prefer to drive.
The market is situated conveniently near Songjeong Station, making it accessible for most travelers. The street itself is generally flat and easy to navigate.
Taking the subway or a bus to Songjeong Station is a common and efficient way to reach the market from other parts of Gwangju.
Songjeong Station is a major transportation hub and is served by key subway lines in Gwangju, making it easy to access from various districts.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the 1913 Songjeong Station Market itself is free. You only pay for the food, drinks, or items you purchase from the individual vendors.
While the market street is generally accessible, individual shop and restaurant hours can vary. It's best to visit during typical daytime and early evening hours, especially on weekends, for the most lively experience. Some sources suggest places might be closed, so checking recent visitor feedback is advised.
The main attractions like the themed shops and food stalls do not have separate admission fees. However, activities like the photo booth might have a small charge.
Some tours or promotions may offer vouchers to spend at the market, as mentioned by visitors who used them for food purchases.
It's advisable to check specific vendor operating hours for public holidays, as some may have reduced hours or be closed. However, the street itself should remain accessible.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You can find a variety of Korean street food, including delicious fried chicken (Sijang Tongdak), ramen, rice cakes, and tempura. Some modern cafes and even a brewery are also present.
While many popular dishes are meat-based, you might find some vegetable-focused options like rice cakes or tempura. It's best to inquire directly with vendors about ingredients.
Visitors often rave about the Korean Market Style Fried Chicken and the variety of ramen and rice cakes.
Prices can vary, but many street food items are affordable. For example, fried chicken might cost around 20,000 KRW, while other snacks could be less.
The market features a mix of traditional food stalls and more established restaurants, some with unique themes like old-school classrooms.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire street offers a retro aesthetic with its old buildings and themed shops, making it a great backdrop. The photo booths are also popular for fun, quirky shots.
Yes, the unique retro vibe and the mix of old and new elements make it an interesting location for street photography, capturing the local atmosphere.
Generally, it's acceptable to take photos of food and the general market scene. However, always be respectful and ask permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their products.
Late afternoon or early evening can offer beautiful lighting, especially if the market is illuminated. Weekends might provide more activity to capture.
Look out for the creatively decorated shop fronts, the vibrant food displays, and the nostalgic elements that give the market its unique character.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss the photo booths, which are a fantastic way to create lasting memories with the whole family. The market's layout is generally easy to navigate, making it suitable for strollers, though it can get crowded during peak times. It's a great spot for a casual outing where everyone can find something to enjoy.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Key spots for photos include the creatively decorated shop fronts, the bustling food displays, and the charmingly vintage elements scattered throughout. The photo booths also offer a fun and quirky element to capture. Visiting during late afternoon or early evening can provide excellent lighting conditions, and weekends often offer more activity to document.
🍜 Foodies & Street Food Lovers
Explore the various stalls and eateries to discover hidden gems. While some places might be more popular than others, the general consensus is that the food here is a highlight. It's an ideal destination to sample a variety of local tastes without breaking the bank, making it perfect for a food crawl.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Charm of 1913 Songjeong Station Market
Visitors often highlight the old-fashioned vibe as a major draw. It's a place where you can stroll, soak in the atmosphere, and enjoy a variety of local foods and snacks. While some reviews suggest that certain places might be closed, especially post-COVID, the core appeal lies in its unique presentation and the opportunity to step back in time.
This market is particularly appealing for those interested in Korean street food and photography. The colorful displays of food, the vintage shop fronts, and the overall ambiance provide ample opportunities for capturing memorable shots. It's a place that encourages exploration and discovery, with each corner offering a new visual delight.
Culinary Delights and Where to Find Them
Beyond the classic street food, the market has evolved to include more modern culinary offerings. You can discover eateries with unique themes, such as restaurants designed like old-school classrooms, providing a fun dining experience. There's also mention of a brewery and a German restaurant that have been noted as popular spots attracting crowds.
When planning your visit, keep in mind that while many places are open, some visitors have noted that not all establishments might be consistently open, especially outside of peak hours or on certain days. It's always a good idea to be adventurous and explore, and don't hesitate to ask vendors about their specialties. The affordability of many street food items also makes it possible to sample a variety of dishes.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit