The star of the day is that very place you often see in K-Pop idols' content and popular K-Variety shows like Running Man and I Live Alone—it's Gwangjang Market! This 120-year-old market is still fiercely popular, drawing in local residents who have visited for decades, locals, and foreign tourists who now fill its aisles.
✅ New shops reflecting K-culture popping up among the decades-old shops ✅ The best of old and new ✅ Travelers get to experience what's truly local Here we introduce the old and new of the market. If you are looking for new spots rather than the famous ones everyone already knows, pay attention! We have gathered 'new and hot' spots—many of which even Koreans don't know well—that will offer a more special experience for your trip to Korea.
The fun lies in hunting down Gwangjang Market's hidden NEW SPOTS! Be sure to check the map carefully, as they might be tucked away in places where the signs are hard to see! Follow the numbers below to find the stores in the map.
1️⃣ Garlic Boy
If you've been tracking the source of that savory, buttered aroma that wafts from afar, then you've found Garlic Boy. They offer garlic bread with diverse twists, incorporating cream, cheese, and ham. Not only is the bread visually appealing, but the exotic interior will instantly grab your attention. 📌 You can find it immediately after entering the market from the main road, passing through the Yukhoe (Beef Tartare) Alley 💵 Average Budget: Approx. ₩4,000–₩6,000 per person (e.g., Garlic Bread ₩3,900, Truffle Cream Garlic Bread ₩5,300, etc.)
Korea Roasting Champion 🙋
2️⃣ ILHO
ILHO is a café named with the intention of succeeding the very first, or 'No. 1,' store in Gwangjang Market. It is operated by a barista who is the champion of the Korea Roasting Competition and ranked 3rd in the World Roasting Championship. Be sure to try their signature menu items like the Gwangjang Latte, which adds smoothness to the coffee's flavor, and the Noir Blanc. 📌 It's located on the alley leading further into the market from the Gwangjang Market Twisted Doughnut stall 💵 Average Budget: Approx. ₩7,000 per person (e.g., Gwangjang Latte ₩7,000, Noir Blanc ₩7,000, Lemon Breeze ₩7,000, etc.)
3️⃣ Public Garden
This is a rooftop garden brunch café so modern and hip that one might find it surprising to find the place inside the market. It will be the perfect resting spot, offering a beautiful view whether the weather is sunny or rainy. 📌 Look for the KB Kookmin Bank building nestled among the fabric shops! The café is located on that building's rooftop. 💵 Average Budget: Approx. ₩10,000–₩20,000 per person (e.g., Americano ₩5,500, Basque Cheesecake ₩6,000, Brie Cheese Sandwich ₩17,000, etc.)
4️⃣ Starbucks Gwangjang Market
The Starbucks Gwangjang Market maximizes the charm of the market's long-standing building, constructed with red bricks. As you ascend the spiral corridor, a special space opens up that overlooks the entire market. The view of the sky from the rooftop at sunset is also quite spectacular. You can also find specialized menu items and exclusive merch. 📌 It is located right in the middle of the market, so you should be able to easily find the guide signs. 💵 Average Budget: Approx. ₩10,000–₩20,000 per person (e.g., Starbucks Honey Hotteok Latte ₩9,000, Makgeolli-flavored Cream Cold Brew ₩9,000, Siltarae Baumkuchen ₩15,000, etc.)
5️⃣ Top Things to Shop 🛍️
K-Fashion brands have recently become a hot topic by opening stores within Gwangjang Market. The setup is almost like an outlet, with all the brands gathered inside a single building, making it a perfect spot for serious shopping. Enjoy the new scenery created by these leading K-Fashion brands right inside the old market! ✅ Newly Opened K-Fashion Stores in Gwangjang Market 📍 Marithé François Girbaud 📍 Setter 📍 Matin Kim 📍 Fruit of the Loom 📌 Located inside a small commercial building near the West Gate of Gwangjang Market 💵 Average Budget: Varies by brand
This is an urban beauty outlet boasting discounts of up to 90% off. You can find everything from mask packs, moisturizing creams, and makeup products from Korean local brands to luxury brands like Chanel. 📌 It is located at the West Gate entrance of Gwangjang Market. Look for the purple 'OFF BEAUTY' sign! 💵 Average Budget: Starting from approximately ₩5,000
HBAF's Honey Butter Almonds are already incredibly famous as a souvenir from a trip to Korea, right? An HBAF Almond Store has also opened its doors in Gwangjang Market. Among the countless flavors of almonds stacked inside the store, there's sure to be one that suits your taste! 📌 You can find it right next to OFF BEAUTY. 💵 Average Budget: Starting from approximately ₩7,000
