Getting Lost in Busan’s Gukje Market

One of my favorite things about living in South Korea is visiting the markets. There are markets everywhere! And there is a market for everything. There are traditional markets, full of food and household items, and there are clothing markets. There are electronics markets, music markets, fish markets, and even pet markets!

Perhaps the most famous of all of these markets is Namdaemun or Dongdaemun in Seoul. These huge markets get all the press because they have a long history and because they’re in Seoul, where most of the tourists spend their time. Those are both interesting places, but recently, we discovered a few similar places here in Busan that we liked a lot more!

Busan’s Gukje and Bupyeong markets are right next to each other – they’re essentially one large market. These places are Busan’s dongdaemun and Busan’s namdaemun. You can find almost anything here, from thrift store t-shirts to hand carved chairs to squirming octopus. It’s always an assault on the senses to walk through a Korean market, and it’s no different here. The smells, sounds, and sights are almost overwhelming. More than anything, it’s fascinating! I love looking at all the people and all the stores.

Food Stall in Gukje Market, Busan

We found ourselves exploring Gukje market recently because we wanted to buy some Hanbok – traditional Korean formal wear. We were told that Gukje market was the best place to good a good deal on some custom made hanbok. We wandered around for about an hour, exploring all the nooks and alley ways, but alas, we didn’t find a single hanbok shop. We decided to head out and get something to eat. Amusingly, on the way out, we finally found all the hanbok stalls! But by then we were too tired to go on. We’ll have to venture back to Gukje another day!

Do you want to go to Gukje or Bupyeong market in Busan? You can find directions and more information here. Check out the video we made in the market, too!