
Seongdong Market
A cozy, authentic market in Gyeongju offering delicious Korean street food and a unique buffet experience at unbeatable prices.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Freshest food, fewer crowds

Seongdong Market
Best Time
Freshest food, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A cozy, authentic market in Gyeongju offering delicious Korean street food and a unique buffet experience at unbeatable prices.
"Much better than the jungang market nearby. This one is more lively, cleaner and more ready to eat food."

🎯 Try the Buffet First
Grab a plate at the food court and sample a little of everything before committing to more!
💰 Affordable Eats
Enjoy a wide variety of traditional dishes for under $7. Great value for money!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Authentic Korean Buffet
Food court area
A mini buffet with over 20 traditional dishes. Grab a plate and fill up for an affordable price!

Grandma's Dumplings
Specific stall (look for signs)
Handmade dumplings with a 30-year legacy. Unforgettable flavors that keep locals coming back.

Street Food Delights
Various stalls
From sundae and tteok-bokki to hotteok, experience a vibrant array of Korean street snacks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Timing is Key for Taste
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Try the Buffet First
Grab a plate at the food court and sample a little of everything before committing to more!
💰 Affordable Eats
Enjoy a wide variety of traditional dishes for under $7. Great value for money!
🥟 Don't Miss the Dumplings
Look for the stall with a 30-year history for delicious, handmade kimchi and rice dumplings.
🚶♀️ Stroll and Snack
Perfect for a quick bite and a leisurely walk. Experience the lively sights and sounds.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Try the Buffet First
Grab a plate at the food court and sample a little of everything before committing to more!
💰 Affordable Eats
Enjoy a wide variety of traditional dishes for under $7. Great value for money!
🥟 Don't Miss the Dumplings
Look for the stall with a 30-year history for delicious, handmade kimchi and rice dumplings.
🚶♀️ Stroll and Snack
Perfect for a quick bite and a leisurely walk. Experience the lively sights and sounds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Seongdong Market is praised for its lively, clean, and authentic atmosphere, offering delicious Korean specialties at affordable prices. Visitors particularly enjoy the unique buffet experience and the high-quality street food, making it a must-visit spot for a genuine taste of local cuisine.
"Much better than the jungang market nearby.
This one is more lively, cleaner and more ready to eat food where you can comfortably dine in."
J Seth
"Very authentic market with Korean specialities for sale and cheap fruit!"
V Tarling
"성동시장 Seongdong Market is a very cosy and pretty-empty market in Gyeongju, which sells many street-style food like sundae (blood sausage), fishcake, tteok-bokki, hotteok & other miscellaneous stuffs - similar to the infamous Gwangjang Market in Seoul that all tourists go to get scammed.
My partner and I had sundae here, and it was really soft, warm and affordable! Do drop by for quick bites & stroll if you're nearby"
SeungJun Kim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Seongdong Market is located in Gyeongju. While specific public transport details can vary, it's often accessible by local buses. Many visitors find it a pleasant stroll from nearby attractions like the Royal Tombs of Daereungwon Park.
Yes, it's a well-known local market in Gyeongju. Look for signs indicating 'Seongdong Sijang' (성동시장).
Parking availability can be limited, especially during peak hours. It's often recommended to use public transport or walk if you're exploring nearby attractions.
Walking is the best way to soak in the atmosphere and discover hidden gems. The market is also close to other Gyeongju highlights.
Yes, Seongdong Market is often visited alongside other popular Gyeongju sites like the Royal Tombs and Cheomseongdae Observatory, making it a convenient stop.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Seongdong Market itself is free. You only pay for the food and items you purchase from the vendors.
The market is generally open daily, but individual stall hours can vary. It's best to visit during daytime hours, especially before sunset, for the most vibrant experience.
There is no separate admission fee for the food court area within Seongdong Market. You pay for your chosen dishes.
While some vendors may accept cards, it's advisable to carry cash, especially for smaller purchases or at more traditional stalls.
While not always advertised, local markets often have a lively atmosphere. Check local listings for any special events, though the daily buzz is a highlight itself.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a wide variety of authentic Korean street food, including sundae, tteok-bokki, fishcakes, hotteok, and a popular buffet with over 20 dishes.
It's a mini buffet system. You get a plate, and you can serve yourself from the spread of dishes to eat with your rice.
Food is generally very affordable. The buffet is often cited as being under $7 (around 9,000 KRW), and individual street food items are also budget-friendly.
While many dishes are meat or seafood-based, you can often find vegetable side dishes and some vegetarian-friendly options like hotteok. It's best to ask vendors directly.
Don't miss the handmade dumplings, sundae (blood sausage), and tteok-bokki. The buffet offers a great way to sample many things.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant food stalls, the bustling atmosphere, and close-ups of delicious Korean street food. The market's authentic feel is very photogenic.
Generally, it's acceptable to take photos of the food and general market scenes. If you want to take a close-up of a vendor, it's polite to ask for their permission first.
Late afternoon before sunset offers beautiful lighting and a lively, yet not overly crowded, scene.
The market itself is the main attraction. Focus on the colorful food displays, the steam rising from cooking stations, and the interactions between vendors and customers.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm or a prime lens (like a 35mm or 50mm) is great for capturing both wider market scenes and detailed food shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for kid-friendly options like tteok-bokki (which can sometimes be made less spicy) and sweet hotteok. The lively atmosphere is engaging for children, and the market's manageable size makes it easy to navigate. It's a great way to introduce them to authentic Korean street food in a casual setting.
💰 Budget Travelers
This market offers excellent value for money, providing an authentic culinary experience that rivals more expensive dining options. It's a perfect spot to enjoy delicious Korean food while keeping your travel expenses low.
🍜 Food Enthusiasts
Explore the various stalls, try the unique buffet system, and savor the traditional flavors. It's a place where you can discover hidden culinary gems and experience the heart of Korean food culture.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Seongdong Market Buffet Experience
Travelers often advise starting by trying a little of everything to discover your favorites before going back for more. This method is perfect for those with curious taste buds who want to experience the breadth of Korean home-style cooking. The atmosphere in the food court is lively, with locals and visitors alike enjoying the communal dining experience. It's a fantastic way to get a filling and authentic meal without breaking the bank.
Key takeaway: Embrace the self-serve concept and don't be afraid to try a bit of everything. It's a culinary adventure that embodies the spirit of local Korean markets. The affordability and variety make it a standout feature of Seongdong Market.
A Taste of Tradition: Street Food at Seongdong
One particular highlight frequently mentioned is the handmade dumplings, with one stall boasting a 30-year legacy. These dumplings, whether kimchi or rice-filled, are described as unforgettable and a must-try for any visitor. The market's lively ambiance, filled with the sights and sounds of food being prepared, adds to the overall sensory experience. It’s a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the local food scene.
Pro-tip: If you're unsure about what to order, observe what locals are enjoying or ask for recommendations. The friendly vendors are usually happy to guide you. The affordability of these street food items makes it easy to try multiple options.
Seongdong Market: More Than Just Food
The market's atmosphere is often described as cozy and less crowded than some of Seoul's more famous markets, offering a more relaxed and authentic experience. This makes it an ideal spot for those seeking a genuine connection with Korean culture without the overwhelming tourist throngs. The blend of food, local commerce, and a friendly atmosphere makes Seongdong Market a well-rounded destination.
Consider exploring: Take your time to wander through all sections of the market. You might discover unique souvenirs or local products that offer a deeper insight into Gyeongju's heritage.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit