This article will inform you about Gwangjang Market, a place where you can easily enjoy a variety of representative Korean foods on the street.
1. History and tradition of Gwangjang Market
Gwangjang Market is one of the oldest markets in Korea, boasting history and tradition. This place was established in 1905 and has a history that continues to this day. Gwangjang Market has served as the center of Korea's economic development and people's livelihood. Gwangjang Market inherits the form of a traditional market that began in the Joseon Dynasty and preserves Korea's traditional market culture.
During the Joseon Dynasty, Gwangjang Market developed into an important commercial center in Korea, and during the Japanese colonial period, Gwangjang Market and other markets were organized and played a role in opposing Japan's colonial rule.
After the Korean War, Gwangjang Market regained its vitality and small shops gathered together to prosper. Gwangjang Market is known as a place filled with traditional Korean market culture and the passion and efforts of small business owners.
Gwangjang Market has many stores with a long history. Traditional shops continue to operate within the market, and it is still loved by people as a place that connects Korea's past and present.
2. Features and advantages of traveling to Gwangjang Market
Gwangjang Market is a place that offers various features and advantages to travelers. I will give you detailed information about traveling here.
Experience Korean tradition and history: Gwangjang Market is the best place to experience Korean tradition and history. Traditional shops and buildings with a long history are still preserved, allowing you to experience Korea's past and present at the same time. You can improve your understanding of Korean culture by appreciating the traditional atmosphere and props.
Interaction with locals: Gwangjang Market provides an opportunity to get into the lives of locals. There are many shops visited by locals within the market, making it a great opportunity to communicate and interact with locals. You can experience a more authentic Korea by chatting with locals and trying their favorite foods.
Various food and cultural experiences: Gwangjang Market is known as a famous place where you can taste a variety of food. You can enjoy a variety of foods, including typical Korean foods such as tteokbokki, puffed rice noodles, sundae, and fried foods. Additionally, there are places around Gwangjang Market where you can experience Korean traditional culture. You can appreciate traditional Korean culture by visiting tourist attractions such as Jongmyo Shrine, Changgyeonggung Palace, and Bukchon Hanok Village.
Enjoy of Shopping: Gwangjang Market is filled with a variety of shops and shops, making it a place where you can experience the joy of shopping. You can purchase a variety of products including clothing, accessories, traditional crafts, and Hanbok, Korea's traditional clothing. You can find precious souvenirs by purchasing locally made products.
3. Tourist attractions you can enjoy near Gwangjang Market
Various tourist attractions are located near Gwangjang Market, providing visitors with a variety of experiences. The following is a description of the main tourist attractions near Gwangjang Market.
Jongmyo: Jongmyo is the tomb of the kings of the Joseon Dynasty, located about a 10-minute walk from Gwangjang Market. It consists of the tombs of kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty and has beautiful gardens and historical value. Visitors can experience Korean history and culture at Jongmyo Shrine and enjoy a quiet walk.
Changgyeonggung Palace: Changgyeonggung Palace is a palace used as the royal residence of the Joseon Dynasty, located about a 15-minute walk from Gwangjang Market. Beautiful buildings and gardens are harmoniously combined, and you can enjoy traditional Korean architecture. Changgyeonggung Palace also offers tours inside the palace, providing visitors with a rich understanding of Korean history and culture.
Bukchon Hanok Village: Bukchon Hanok Village is located about a 20-minute walk from Gwangjang Market. It is famous for its traditional Hanok buildings and a place to experience traditional Korean culture. Visitors can experience Korean traditional culture first-hand by viewing beautiful Hanok buildings and participating in traditional performances and experiential programs. Additionally, there are various traditional crafts and Korean restaurants located around Bukchon Hanok Village, so you can enjoy traditional Korean tastes and culture.
4. Representative foods and foods of Gwangjang Market
Gwangjang Market is famous for offering a variety of representative foods and eats. The following is a detailed description of the representative foods and foods that can be tasted at Gwangjang Market.
- Recommended food -
Gukbap: You can taste delicious gukbap at Gwangjang Market. The soup, meat, and vegetables come together to boast a rich taste. You can enjoy a variety of soups such as yukgaejang, seolleongtang, and gomtang, and enjoy the flavor of the warm soup and meat together.
Bindaetteok: Bindaetteok is one of the popular snack menu items at Gwangjang Market. The savory and crispy Bindaetteok is made with meat, vegetables, and rice cakes grilled together, allowing you to enjoy both taste and texture at the same time. It is even more delicious when eaten with sauce.
Gopchang: You can taste a variety of tripe dishes at Gwangjang Market. You can taste fresh grilled beef tripe or daechang, and it is served with special seasoning for an even richer taste.
Hotteok: Hotteok is one of the street foods in Gwangjang Market and is loved by people. Sweet and soft hotteok can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, including bean paste, sweet potatoes, and Cheongyang peppers. A warm piece of hotteok warms the heart even in cold weather.
Live octopus: There are places in Gwangjang Market where you can taste live octopus. You can enjoy fresh live octopus alive, and it is served with spicy seasoning for a special experience.
Tteokbokki: Tteokbokki is one of the most popular foods at Gwangjang Market. It is characterized by a spicy and savory taste, and the chewy rice cake and spicy red pepper paste sauce harmoniously combine to create a delicious combination. At Gwangjang Market, you can taste various types of tteokbokki and additionally enjoy fish cakes, sundae, and fried foods.
Puffed Rice Noodles: Puffed Pho Noodles are one of the popular foods at Gwangjang Market. By combining thin and springy rice noodles with fresh vegetables and meat, you can enjoy both taste and nutrition at the same time. The puffy rice noodles served at Gwangjang Market are even more delicious because they contain rich meat and seafood along with rich broth.
Sundae: Sundae is one of the most popular foods sold at Gwangjang Market. You can taste various types of sundae, including Samgye sundae and stir-fried sundae, and are loved for their soft, chewy texture and rich taste.
Fried food: You can taste various types of fried food at Gwangjang Market. When you take a bite of the savory tempura made with fried squid, peppers, eggs, etc., its crunchy and savory taste will fill your mouth. You can also enjoy roasted sweet potatoes, croquettes, and vegetable tempura, giving you plenty of options.
Bulgogi: You can also taste delicious bulgogi at Gwangjang Market. Bulgogi, made with tender beef seasoned with special seasoning, is a very popular Korean food. When you enjoy grilled bulgogi at Gwangjang Market, you can feel the harmony of meat flavor and seasoning.
- Recommended drinking section -
Soju: Soju is the most popular traditional alcohol in Korea. You can taste various types of soju at Gwangjang Market. It is known for its clean and light taste, and is great to enjoy with simple snacks.
Makgeolli: Makgeolli is one of Korea's traditional alcoholic beverages and can be easily found at Gwangjang Market. It is made from rice, barley, etc. and has an excellent refreshing feeling and savory taste. Makgeolli is characterized by a smooth taste and foam, and is popular for outdoor drinking or light gatherings.
Dongdongju: Dongdongju is a traditional Korean liquor and can be found at Gwangjang Market. It is made by fermenting rice or barley, and has a savory and deep taste. It is usually enjoyed with special seasoning or spices, allowing you to experience the taste and characteristics of traditional Korean alcohol.
Korea's Gwangjang Market is a special place that preserves history and tradition, and is a place where you can enjoy various tourist attractions and delicious food. Gwangjang Market provides a great opportunity to experience Korean history and culture and communicate with local people. Visit Gwangjang Market and experience Korea’s diverse charm.
This concludes the article “Gwangjang Market: A Feast of Korea’s Representative Food”