The heart and soul of Busan can be found in its markets. Here, you'll hear the friendly chatter in the local dialect and be surrounded by the delicious aromas of street food. Busan's markets are also symbols of the city’s history, particularly the hardships of war refugees. Check out these vibrant markets that remain central to the lives of locals.
Busan’s iconic traditional markets
Gukje Market
One of Busan’s most iconic traditional markets, famously featured in the movie “Ode to My Father,” has been bustling with activity since Korea's liberation in 1945. Strolling through the narrow alleys lined with clustered shops is a delightful experience. You’ll find a wide variety of goods, from toys and clothing to kitchenware, and discover hidden food gems along the way. Don't miss the Youth Mall on the 2nd floor, offering one-of-a-kind items.
Good to Know!
Bupyeong Kkangtong Market is on the west side of Gukje Market and BIFF Street is on the south side.
Reference: TRIPLEKorea
Market guide
It is divided into six sections. Section 1 is Silbi Street, a popular food alley. The Youth Mall is on the 2nd floor of Sections 1 and 6.
Recommended to use Yongdusan Public Parking Lot
· 10 min walk to Gukje Market
· Parking fee: ₩500 per 10 minutes
Must-visit shops
- Reference: 한국관광공사KkotbuninePopular photo spot in Gukje Market that appeared in the movie “Ode to My Father” as Hwang Jungmin's store. It attracts crowds eager to take pictures with the signboard that Hwang’s character hung up in the film.
- Reference: www.instagram.com/p/B8vQrQuplVG/Longfor StudioStudio on the 2nd floor of Gukje Market. Create special memories with the unique experience of taking black-and-white photos.
- Reference: gukjemarket.co.kr/fint_store/%EC%A0%90%ED%8F%AC%EC%B0%BE%EA%B8%B0?gubun2=&gubun1=&keyword=%EC%9E%90%EA%B0%88%EC%B9%98%EC%8B%9D%EB%8B%B9Jagalchi SikdangFamous restaurant on Silbi Street. The traditional tiled roof and old posters adorning the walls catch your eye. The signature dish is the spicy clam fried rice.
Overflowing with delicious eats
Bupyeong Kkangtong Market
Busan's largest market, located adjacent to Gukje Market. It earned the nickname “Kkangtong Market” from its early days selling canned goods and other military supplies. Famous as a food paradise, the market is home to numerous eateries featured on TV shows. It is also home to Korea's first night market.
Good to Know!
The night market opens every day from 07:30 PM to 11:30 PM.
Reference: TRIPLEKorea
Market guide
It is divided into seven arcades, and you have to go to Arcade 2 for the night market alley.
Recommended to use Bupyeong Public Parking Lot
· Parking fee: ₩700 per 10 minutes
Must-visit shops
- Reference: shutterstock.comLeegane TteokbokkiFamous eatery that draws visitors to Bupyeong Kkangtong Market. It's known for making Tteokbokki using radish juice instead of water.
- Reference: bupyeong-market.com/bs/ko/viewStoreInfo.do?storeNum=4048Kkangtong Golmok Halmae Yubu JeongolRepresentative eatery of Bupyeong Kkangtong Market. It was the first to create the “Yubu Jumeoni” with thick glass noodles wrapped in tofu skin. The Yubu-jeongol, a hot pot featuring tofu pouches and various fish cakes, is a must-try dish.
- Reference: bupyeong-market.com/bs/ko/viewStoreInfo.do?storeNum=7004Geoin TongdakOne of Busan’s top three fried chicken spots. This place will make you stop in your tracks with the sight of chicken being fried right in front of the restaurant. The best-selling menu is the extra-crunch crispy fried chicken.
- Reference: bupyeong-market.com/bs/ko/viewStoreInfo.do?storeNum=7008Wonjo Kkangtong Bibim DangmyeonFaded sign and photos of TV appearances on the exterior attest to its status as a beloved eatery. Operating in Bupyeong Kkangtong Market for over 60 years, the specialty here is the Bibim Dangmyeon, mixed with their unique sauce.
- Reference: www.visitbusan.netSageori BunsikEnjoy a variety of street foods here, including Tteokbokki, Yubu Jumeoni, Busan fish cakes, and Bibim Dangmyeon. The spacious and comfortable indoor seating makes it easy to dine in. The Bibim Dangmyeon is particularly famous here.
A longstanding establishment
Dongnae Market
Located in a Hanok-style building, this market boasts a clean and comfortable interior. While its appearance may seem modern, it has a rich history dating back to the Joseon Dynasty. Many of the shops here have been around for at least 40 to 50 years. With surprisingly affordable prices, it’s definitely worth a visit.
Good to Know!
Suan Injeong Market is located on the way to Dongnae Market from Suan Station on Line 4. There are many famous restaurants including Heemang Tongdak and Dongnae Bonga Jokbal.
Reference: TRIPLEKorea
Market guide
The 1st floor features agricultural products, seafood, and household items, while the 2nd floor primarily offers clothing.
Recommended to use Dongnae Public Parking Lot
· 15 min walk to Dongnae Market
· Parking fee: ₩300 per 10 minutes
Must-visit shops
- Reference: shutterstock.comJamae BunsikEnjoy a hearty meal at a great price. The generously portioned Kalguksu, the restaurant's best-seller, is just ₩3,000.
- Reference: shutterstock.comSingane Hotteok Gimbap TteokbokkiLocated on the way to Dongnae Market, this spot offers a variety of street foods like Gimbap, Tteokbokki, and Mandu. The standout specialty here is the Sweet Rice Hotteok, which is cooked with margarine.
Korea's largest seafood market
Jagalchi Market
Large seafood market located along Jagalchi Beach. Started as a few stalls during the Japanese occupation, it has since grown into a seven-story building. Jagalchi Market is special for its daily catch of fresh seafood, which you can buy and enjoy right on the spot. It is surrounded by many popular eateries serving sashimi, grilled fish, and more.
Good to Know!
Every autumn, Jagalchi Market hosts the Jagalchi Festival. The event features a variety of activities, including flea markets, fish-catching experiences, and celebratory performances.
Reference: TRIPLEKorea
Market guide
On the 1st floor, you can purchase seafood and then have it prepared on the 2nd floor. The 7th floor features a rooftop garden with a panoramic sea view of Yeongdo.
Parking lot in the basement of the Jagalchi Market building
· Parking fee: ₩500 per 10 minutes
Must-visit restaurants & menu
- Reference: shutterstock.comBusan Myeongmul HoetjipRenowned for its long-standing history since 1946, it is famous for its halibut sashimi and the popular sashimi set meal with various side dishes.
- Reference: shutterstock.comSamhan KkomjangeoWith over 65 years of history, it is renowned for its grilled sea eel cooked over charcoal. It’s a popular spot among locals, offering side dishes like sea squirt, abalone, and live octopus.
- Reference: shutterstock.comHanweol SikdangKnown for its delicious grilled fish, it serves plump fish with a spicy fish soup as a standard side, making for a hearty meal. The mixed grilled fish platter is especially popular.
- Reference: shutterstock.comThe Seafood SeasonFor sashimi, it is important to choose the right sashimi for the season. Sea eel is best enjoyed in June, halibut from September to December, ridged-eye flounder from March to May, rockfish in April and May, and sea bream from April to August.
Near Haeundae Beach
Haeundae Market
Market just 5 minutes from Haeundae Beach, where a straight stretch of street is lined with eye-catching eateries. You can choose from a wide variety of options like Tteokbokki, sea eel, Kkwabaegi, and hot dogs. Affordable prices make it easy to enjoy a meal. It’s especially lively in summer, with many travelers stopping by after a day at the beach.
Reference: TRIPLEKorea
Market Guide
Haeundae Market stretches out along a single long street.
Recommended to use Haeundae Market Public Parking Lot (parking fee can only be paid by card)
· 2 min walk to Haeundae market
· Parking fee: ₩400 per 10 minutes
· Purchases or meals at the market grant a parking voucher for 30 minutes free. Additional time costs ₩400 per 10 minutes.
Must-visit Shops
- Reference: 한국관광공사SangguginaeGo-to spot at Haeundae Market. Celebrity autographs on the walls signal its popularity. Enjoy Busan-style Tteokbokki with long rice cakes, plus fried foods and fish cakes.
- Reference: shutterstock.comNohong ManduLocated in the middle of Haeundae Market, this popular spot is known for its affordable prices and generous portions. The clam Kalguksu, packed with clams, is a favorite.
- Reference: www.visitbusan.netHaegeumgang GomjangeoRenowned spot visited by famous chefs, where fresh eel is prepared and grilled to order. Open late, it's perfect for satisfying late-night cravings.
See all popular markets in Busan at a glance
- Gukje MarketAttractionBusan(Nampodong)
- Bupyeong Kkangtong MarketAttractionBusan(Nampodong)
- Dongnae MarketAttractionBusan
- Jagalchi MarketAttractionBusan(Nampodong)
- Haeundae MarketAttractionBusan(Haeundae)