Gwangjang Market: 5 Must-Try Spots for First-Time Visitors | Seoul Explorer
Gwangjang Market
Located in the heart of Seoul, Gwangjang Market is a paradise for food lovers seeking authentic Korean flavors. From sizzling pancakes to addictive gimbap, it’s where history and taste meet. Here are 5 must-try spots that capture the true charm of the market — perfect for first-time visitors!
1. Chapssal Twisted Donuts (찹쌀꽈배기)
Start your Gwangjang adventure with warm, chewy chapssal twisted donuts. These sweet rice flour donuts are soft on the inside and crisp outside — a nostalgic Korean treat loved by all ages. Inside Gwangjang Market, near the Jongno 5-ga entrance
- Address: 2 Jong-ro 32-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Daily) - Closed on the first Sunday of every month
- Price: ₩1,000–₩1,500 per piece
Ask for the ones just out of the fryer — they’re the best!
It's located at the entrance to Gwangjang Market, making it easy to find.
Look for the long line of people!
2. Mayak Gimbap (모녀마약김밥)
Known as “drug gimbap” for its irresistible taste, Mayak Gimbap is a tiny rice roll packed with flavor. Dip it in mustard sauce for the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and spicy. Don't get me wrong, there are no drugs in Mayak Gimbap!
- Address: 403-23 Dongho-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Price: Mayak Gimbap ₩4,000, Yukhoe ₩21,000, Mung bean bindaetteok ₩5,000, tteokbokki ₩3,000
Lines can get long — go before noon for the shortest wait.
Mayak Gimbap stall, Gwangjang Market Food Alley.
It's located at the busiest intersection.
There's also a second branch nearby.
3. Soonhee’s Bindaetteok (순희네 빈대떡)
Soonhee’s Bindaetteok is one of the oldest and most beloved pancake stalls in the market. Made from ground mung beans, onions, and pork, the pancakes are pan-fried to golden perfection.
- Address: 5 Jong-ro 32-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul.
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM(Last Order 08:30 PM)
- Price: Mung bean bindaetteok ₩5,000, Meatballs ₩3,000, Shrimp Bindaetteok ₩10,000, Meat Bindaetteok ₩10,000, Assorted (2 Mung Bean Bindaetteok + 1 Meatball) ₩13,000, Yukhoe ₩21,000
Pair it with makgeolli (Korean rice wine) for a true local experience.
Stall #42, Gwangjang Market Food Alley.
It's best when eaten right after grilling.
Try Yukhoe Tangtang, a dish only available in Korea!
4. Abebae (아베베)
Abebae is a cozy modern café tucked just beside the market. Its minimal wood interiors and Korean-style desserts make it a perfect resting spot after exploring the food alleys. This is one of Korea's hippest bakeries. It's the perfect place to grab some delicious donuts and take some Instagram or TikTok photos.
- Address: 201 Cheonggyecheon-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Price: Donuts ₩3,100–₩4,500, Drink ₩4,000-₩6,000
Try their peanut cream latte — it’s both photogenic and delicious.
Sanbangsan Sweet Potato Cream Donut and the Udo Cream Donut are signature. Be sure to try them!
Another great way to enjoy it is to pack it and sit on a bench right in front of Cheonggyecheon.
5. Starbucks Gwangjang Market Branch
This Starbucks branch embraces the market’s vintage charm with traditional wood details. It’s a quiet escape for coffee lovers needing a break amid the bustling food alleys. It's a very special place, with a panoramic view of the market through the windows.
- Address: 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM(Sunday 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM)
- Price: Coffee ₩4,700–₩9,000, Food ₩800-₩32,000
Grab a window seat for a great view of the market crowds below.
Visiting a special Starbucks that is only available in Korea can be a fun part of traveling around Korea.
Why This Mix Works
This lineup blends traditional street eats with modern café culture, giving travelers a full taste of Gwangjang’s evolution — from 1900s market stalls to today’s trendy Seoul coffee scene.
Practical Tips
- Arrive before 11 AM to beat the lunch rush.
- Bring cash — not every vendor accepts cards.
- Wear comfortable shoes; the market alleys can get slippery.
- Respect locals by not blocking the walkway while taking photos.
You can visit Gwangjang Market directly by getting off at Jongno 5-ga Station on Subway Line 1.
There's also a bus stop right in front of the entrance.
After visiting Gwangjang Market, you can walk along Cheonggyecheon to Dongdaemun or Gwanghwamun.
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