Seongdong Market
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Seongdong Market

4.1
·2k reviews·Gyeongju, South Korea

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon

Freshest food, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
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Seongdong Market

Seongdong Market

Best Time

Late afternoon

Freshest food, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.1
(2k reviews)

"Much better than the jungang market nearby. This one is more lively, cleaner and more ready to eat food."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Authentic Korean Buffet

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

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

Street Food Delights

Various stalls

From sundae and tteok-bokki to hotteok, experience a vibrant array of Korean street snacks.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Local Vibe

Seongdong Market offers an authentic Korean street food experience. Arrive hungry and ready to explore the diverse stalls. Many visitors recommend trying the buffet-style dining for a true taste of local flavors.

Timing is Key for Taste

While the market is open daily, some vendors have specific hours. For the freshest, most sought-after dishes, aim to visit before sunset. This also helps you avoid the peak crowds and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.

Best Times

When
Late afternoon
Why
Freshest food, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Before sunset
Why
Vibrant atmosphere, good light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

할머니의 손맛 30년, 잊을 수 없는 그 만두 / Grandma's 30-Year Taste, Unforgettable Dumplings [창동 참만두] - 위치: 서울특별시 도봉구 창동 9 창동역 1번 출구에서 걸어서 5분 거리 - 영업: 매일 오후 1시~ (일요일 휴무) - 메뉴: 김치만두 5,000원 고기만두 5,000원 전국에 딱 두 종류만 파는 만두집, 아는 사람만 아는 맛집 #streetfood #Foodie #tiktokfood #fyp #koreanstreetfood
@foodietime1001
144.7K likes • 2.4M views

🎯 Try the Buffet First

Grab a plate at the food court and sample a little of everything before committing to more! InstagramReddit

💰 Affordable Eats

Enjoy a wide variety of traditional dishes for under $7. Great value for money! InstagramReddit

Try to go before sunset 🧡 📍Seorwoldang Address : Gyeongsangbuk-do Gyeongju-si Hwangnam-dong 229-12 #gyeongju #southkorea #koreatravel #cafeaesthetic
@sam_wonderlands
26.3K likes • 323.3K views
Day 3 in Korea *Pro tip: Don't go Korea during peak winter💀🥶 Where we went: 📍Gwangjang Market 📍Super Matcha 668-90 성수1가제2동 Seongdong-gu, Seoul, South Korea 📍Perment Bakeshop 37 Seoulsup 2-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, South Korea 📍Seongsu Darak South Korea, Seoul, Seongdong-gu, Ttukseom-ro 9-gil, 20 2층 #koreavlog #southkoreatravel #koreatravel #seoultravel #seoulfood #winterseoul #seongsu #gwangjan...
foodwdt
29 likes • 381 views

🥟 Don't Miss the Dumplings

Look for the stall with a 30-year history for delicious, handmade kimchi and rice dumplings. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Stroll and Snack

Perfect for a quick bite and a leisurely walk. Experience the lively sights and sounds. InstagramReddit

How many plates would you have? 🤭 This $6.56 (₩9,000) Korean buffet fed my stomach and my soul 🥹 My amazing Airbnb host put me on this hidden gem in Gyeongju, and i’m so glad I went to check it out. Inside Seongdong Market, there’s a self-serve Korean buffet with over 20 traditional dishes—for under $7 😳 You just grab a plate and go to town. They even have soup and it’s incredible! I didn’t k...
thefoodiesaur
348 likes • 13.8K views

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! InstagramReddit

💰 Affordable Eats

Enjoy a wide variety of traditional dishes for under $7. Great value for money! InstagramReddit

🥟 Don't Miss the Dumplings

Look for the stall with a 30-year history for delicious, handmade kimchi and rice dumplings. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Stroll and Snack

Perfect for a quick bite and a leisurely walk. Experience the lively sights and sounds. InstagramReddit

What Travellers Say

4.1
(2k reviews)

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

Authentic Korean street food
Affordable buffet
Lively and clean atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can be crowded at peak times

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. Reddit

Yes, it's a well-known local market in Gyeongju. Look for signs indicating 'Seongdong Sijang' (성동시장). Instagram+1

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. Reddit

Walking is the best way to soak in the atmosphere and discover hidden gems. The market is also close to other Gyeongju highlights. Instagram

Yes, Seongdong Market is often visited alongside other popular Gyeongju sites like the Royal Tombs and Cheomseongdae Observatory, making it a convenient stop. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Seongdong Market itself is free. You only pay for the food and items you purchase from the vendors. Reddit

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. TikTok

There is no separate admission fee for the food court area within Seongdong Market. You pay for your chosen dishes. Instagram

While some vendors may accept cards, it's advisable to carry cash, especially for smaller purchases or at more traditional stalls. Instagram

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. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. TikTokInstagramReddit

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. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

Don't miss the handmade dumplings, sundae (blood sausage), and tteok-bokki. The buffet offers a great way to sample many things. TikTokReddit

📸 📸 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. Instagram

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. Instagram

Late afternoon before sunset offers beautiful lighting and a lively, yet not overly crowded, scene. TikTokInstagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Seongdong Market can be a fun outing for families, offering a variety of familiar and new tastes for kids to try. The buffet-style dining is particularly great for families, as children can pick and choose what they want to eat from the wide selection. InstagramReddit

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. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Seongdong Market is a paradise for budget travelers. The affordable buffet, often under $7, provides a hearty and diverse meal. Instagram Individual street food items are also very reasonably priced, allowing you to snack your way through the market without spending a lot. TikTokReddit

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. Instagram

🍜 Food Enthusiasts

For serious food lovers, Seongdong Market is a must-visit. The authentic Korean street food, from the legendary dumplings to the diverse buffet, offers a true taste of local cuisine. TikTokInstagramReddit

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. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Seongdong Market Buffet Experience

Seongdong Market is renowned for its unique buffet-style dining, a concept that has charmed many visitors. Unlike traditional markets where you order individual dishes, here you're invited to a food court where you select a stall and are provided with a bowl of rice, soup, cutlery, and an empty plate. From there, you can freely serve yourself from an impressive spread of over 20 traditional Korean dishes. This 'mini buffet' approach allows you to sample a wide variety of flavors and textures at an incredibly affordable price, often cited as being under $7 USD. InstagramReddit

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. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram

A Taste of Tradition: Street Food at Seongdong

Beyond the buffet, Seongdong Market is a treasure trove of classic Korean street food. Vendors offer a tempting array of snacks that are perfect for a quick bite or a leisurely stroll through the market. Popular choices include sundae (blood sausage), tteok-bokki (spicy rice cakes), fishcakes, and sweet hotteok (pancakes). These are the kinds of treats that locals have enjoyed for generations, offering a genuine taste of Korean culinary culture. TikTokReddit

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. TikTokInstagram

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. Reddit

Seongdong Market: More Than Just Food

While food is undoubtedly the main draw, Seongdong Market also offers a glimpse into local life and commerce. You can find stalls selling various goods, from traditional clothing and accessories to household items. This aspect of the market provides a more comprehensive cultural experience, allowing visitors to see what everyday Koreans shop for. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

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