There may be many different purposes when visiting Korea but I think most foreign tourists might come to Seoul in order to shop, eat and get the local vibes. In that sense, Namdaemun Market is one of the most vibrant destinations for travelers from around the world. This grand shopping district has every item imaginable: clothes, foods, kitchenware, toys, accessories, stationery and you name it. Moreover, the location of the market is close to other popular places to visit, such as Seoul City Hall, Gyeongbok Palace, Gwanghwamun Square and more, which means starting the itinerary from this market area gives you the convenience of both one-stop shopping and time-saving tour.
2. What You Get from Touring the Biggest Traditional Market in Korea
One time my aunt living in the States came to Korea and I accompanied her to the Namdaemun Market shopping and there, I was so surprised to see how tactfully she haggled at one of the retailer shops in the market – when the retailer didn’t accept the price she’d suggest, insisting face value, she just took the products leaving the money she had in mind and exited the store in a hurry. I don’t personally encourage the way of her bargain, but I think such a thing can be possible only in this old-fashioned market where you can take a special kind of Korean love, Jeong, all in. Another memory about the market is that my mom used to bring me to Namdaemun and got me a couple cheap outfits. After shopping we went to the Kalguksu alley(literally knife-cut noodles) for a quick meal. The alley still offers Kalguksu, bibimbap and Naengmyeon(Cold Noodles) at once for the cheap price of 5,000 won.
3. Things that Make You Frown When in the busiest market in Seoul
Getting something for cheaper comes at a cost. If you eat in the Kalguksu alley, you must feel pressured to finish your bowl quickly as the area is always packed with people waiting for their turn to get a seat. I also experienced the server asking me to eat faster and my having to leave some of the foods. Furthermore, although every store in the market takes credit card payment, visitors should bring enough cash with them because they know almost every store prefers cash. And if one pays by card, it is very likely that the owner would show discomfort as well as little chance of getting a discount.
Until now, Nevertheless, Namdaemun Market boasts so many visitors who want to see the real lives of Koreans. I would gladly suggest a Namdaemun Market tour if I have to guide foreign friends or guests for sightseeing.
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