Geumnam Market, located in Geumho-dong near Geumho Station, is a traditional market that dates back to 1949, before the Korean War.
Urbanization and redevelopment have changed Geumho-dong for the better and the worse, but the market and surrounding areas remain unchanged. Today, the market maintains a hip, mid-90s vibe, untouched by time and development.
While Geumnam Market is similar to other traditional markets in Seoul, what stands out is its old-school atmosphere and maze of narrow alleyways. You can easily get lost in the market, which adds to the experience.
At Geumnam Market, you will find all the usual items and foods. Items include dried fish, peppers, condiments, sauces, household goods, restaurant supplies, and kitchenware.
Many restaurants and street food stalls found in and around the market sell various food, including jokbal (pig’s feet), hot bar (fish cake), sundaeguk (blood sausage soup), and more.
Many vendors sell various fruits and vegetables, including apples, oranges, and leafy greens, such as cabbage, on the sidewalks surrounding the market.
Geumnam Market Information
Admission
Free
Address
326 Geumho-dong 3(sam)-ga, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, Korea
GPS Coordinates: 37.54840, 127.02252
Map
Additional Resources
Viator by TripAdvisor
Viator is a popular online platform that helps travelers book tours, activities, and unique experiences worldwide, including in Seoul. It connects users with a wide selection of options – from sightseeing tours to cultural events and outdoor adventures – all offered by local providers.
Klook
Klook offers discounted tickets and reservations for various attractions and services in Seoul, from theme parks and museums to tours and transportation options.
Rakuten
Save money while exploring Seoul with Rakuten's cashback program. Book your hotels or other services through Rakuten and enjoy cashback rewards and exclusive deals.
If you sign up using the link below, you could earn $30 cashback on your first purchase over $30.
Book Recommendations
For an immersive guide to Seoul, many travelers choose to bring a book along. Fodor's Seoul, for example, offers detailed recommendations on sights, restaurants, maps, and travel tips.
Nearby Sights
Seoul Forest
Seoul Forest is a large park and nature area with walking paths and unique artwork that is located on the banks of the Hangang River on Ttukseom (Ttuk Island). In the past, this area has been used for many purposes from a royal hunting ground to more recently as a water treatment facility.
Jangchungdan Park
Jangchungdan Park, located on Mt. Namsan, is a park where a shrine and tablet once stood that honored those who died trying to protect Empress Myeongseong. Many soldiers died trying to protect Empress Myeongseong from the Japanese. Today visitors to the park can find multiple statues and memorials including one for the 1919 Independence Movement of Korea.
Seoul Jungang Market
Seoul Jungang Market is a traditional market located east of Heunginjimun Gate (Dongdaemun) that specializes in dried fish and other seafood. The market dates back to 1957, a few years after the Korean War. With over 1,000 vendors, the market has become the biggest dried seafood and seaweed markets in Korea. Most vendors only sell a few items which keeps cost low while maintaining quality.
Gwanghuimun Gate
Gwanghuimun Gate, literally meaning "Bright Light Gate," is one of eight gates found on the fortress wall that surrounds the city of Seoul. Gwanghuimun is one of four small gates located along the southeast area of the fortress wall. In 1396, a gate was built at this location, which was located in the southeastern corner of the walled city.
Kyungdong Presbyterian Church
Kyungdong Presbyterian Church is a unique and beautiful church in Jangchung-dong built in 1981 using roughly cut red bricks in the shape of praying hands. The church, which resembles a fortress, was designed by Kim Swoo Geun, one of Korea’s best known post liberation architects.
Last Updated on Mar 13, 2025