Namdaemun Market, located near Namsan Mountain in Seoul, is a historic marketplace tracing back to the Joseon period. Initially formed after the Imjin War, it thrived under Japanese rule and post-liberation. Today, with over 10,000 shops, it’s one of Seoul’s major markets, offering a wide range of goods. Despite facing destruction during the Korean War, it was rebuilt and remains a vibrant hub. From traditional items to modern imports, it reflects Korea’s economic shifts. Tourists flock here for its cultural essence, diverse shopping, and culinary delights, making it a must-visit destination.
Namdaemun Market (남대문시장) is a comprehensive traditional market located near Namsan Mountain in the Jung-gu district of Seoul, South Korea. It is situated east of Namdaemun Gate (also known as Sungnyemun Gate) and is close to Hoehyeon Station on Seoul Subway Line 4.
Records of the market near Namdaemun date back to the early Joseon period during the reigns of King Taejong and King Sejong. After the Imjin War in 1608, the Seonhyecheong office was established, leading to the formation of the market. Following the Japanese colonial period starting in 1922, the market was operated by Japanese companies, but after Korea’s liberation, it was managed by merchant associations.
Today, Namdaemun Market is one of Seoul’s two major markets, along with Dongdaemun Market. Stretching in all directions from Namdaemun Gate, there are over 10,000 shops, large and small. The market handles various items such as agricultural products, daily necessities, groceries, and medical supplies.
Nearby attractions include Myeongdong, the headquarters of the Bank of Korea, and the headquarters of Kookmin Bank. Also, on the outskirts of Namdaemun Market is the main branch of Shinsegae Department Store, which is popular among foreigners. Additionally, just one bus stop away, there is the main branch of Lotte Department Store.
In March 1921, the Chosen Agricultural Corporation (조선농업주식회사) was established by Song Byeong-jun (송병준), and the market officially opened under the name of South Gate Market (남대문시장), also known as Anjang within the South Gate or Sinchang (신창) Anjang. However, much earlier, in 1414 (during the reign of King Taejong), shops were built near Namdaemun and rented out to designated merchants by the government.
After the Imjin War in 1608 (during the reign of King Seonjo), the Seonhyecheong office was established near the vicinity of Namdaemun, where tribute grains and taxes were stored, and cloth and money transactions were managed. As a result, in the area outside Namdaemun’s gates, in what was known as Chilpae (칠패), guesthouses and taverns naturally emerged, forming a market for private merchants.
This marked the origin of the market in this area. Initially, the main traded items were grains, fish, fruits, and sundries, with grains, in particular, being the most traded. According to a survey conducted by the Chosen Government-General in 1922, agricultural products accounted for 77% of the total trade volume at Namdaemun Market, while seafood accounted for 5%, and others for 17%.
In 1922, the market management rights were transferred to a Japanese company called Central Trading Co., Ltd. (중앙물산주식회사), and the market’s name was changed to Central Trading Market. However, Koreans continued to call it Namdaemun Market. After liberation, when the Japanese left, the market was managed and operated by the Namdaemun Merchants Association, composed entirely of Korean merchants.
However, during the Korean War, the market was completely destroyed. After the recapture of Seoul, a new market was formed, playing a significant role as a living space for refugees at the time. However, in 1953, the market was completely destroyed by fire. In 1954, the Seoul Namdaemun Market Co., Ltd. was established by merchants to begin reconstruction, but it was dissolved shortly afterward due to financial difficulties.
In 1958, a building with an area of about 12,000 pyeong (approx. 40,000 square meters) was built, and in 1963, the Namdaemun Market Co., Ltd. was reestablished. However, in 1968, another major fire destroyed the central part of the market, and in 1975, another fire broke out, burning down part of the market again.
As of 1995, Namdaemun Market covers an area of 24,670 square meters with a building floor area of 64,613 square meters, making it Seoul’s largest market for the common people, with a workforce of 9,900 people. From street vendors to modern-style department stores, it offers a wide range of goods, with about 5,400 stores and stalls densely packed throughout the market. It encompasses various sectors including clothing, fruits and vegetables, food, and miscellaneous goods.
While agricultural products used to be the main products, nowadays, there are many stores dealing with clothing. Additionally, there are stores specializing in imported goods, crafts, accessories, and so on, often referred to as “Dokkaebi Market” (a market selling various imported goods).
Namdaemun Market also has “Watch Alley,” where representatives of domestic watch companies gather, offering watches at affordable prices. Sungnyemun Market, established in 1980, mainly deals with imported goods through its 592 stores.
The market’s range of products is almost unparalleled, with a wide variety of goods being sold, including almost everything except construction materials and furniture. It functions as the oldest and largest comprehensive market in Korea, dominating the entire country. This is largely due to the modernization of facilities and the market’s specialization in wholesale and retail of clothing, accessories, and imported goods.
As a result, Namdaemun Market represents the fluctuations in the economy and serves as a face of Korea’s real economy. It is also one of Seoul’s major tourist attractions.
History
- 1414 : Stores were built near the South Gate and leased to merchants by the royal court.
- 1608 : The Seonhyecheong (선혜청, 宣惠廳) office was established, forming a wholesale market for private merchants.
- March 1921 : Song Byeong-jun (송병준, 宋秉畯) established the Joseon Agriculture Company (조선농업주식회사, 朝鮮農業株式會社).
- 1922 : The Japanese Central Trading Company (중앙물산주식회사, 中央物産株式會社) took over the market management rights.
- 1950 : The Korean War broke out, leading to the market’s destruction.
- Sep 1950 : After the liberation of Seoul, the market was re-established.
- 1953 : A fire broke out, causing the market to be completely burnt down.
- 1954 : The Seoul Namdaemun Market Company was established.
- 1957 : The Seoul Namdaemun Market Company was dissolved.
- 1963 : The Namdaemun Market Company was re-established.
- 1968 : Another fire broke out.
- 1975 : Another fire occurred.
- 1977 : A fire accident happened at Namdaemun Market.
The best way to experience Namdaemun Market is by immersing yourself in the local culture and history. As the oldest market in Seoul, it boasts a wide array of shops and stores. Inside the market, you can purchase various products such as traditional foods, handicrafts, clothing, bags, and accessories. Additionally, there are many famous tourist attractions around the market, making it popular among tourists. While experiencing Namdaemun Market, you can interact with locals, enjoy browsing through diverse items, and indulge in shopping. Moreover, you can taste delicious food inside the market and even have the opportunity to experience traditional Korean culture. Namdaemun Market is a must-visit destination in Seoul, highly recommended for travelers who want to experience Korean history and culture.
Namdaemun Market is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during spring and autumn. In spring, the weather is warm and flowers bloom, while in autumn, the trees around the market are beautifully colored. Although Namdaemun Market is bustling with people in summer and winter as well, spring and autumn are more suitable for strolling due to the pleasant weather. Therefore, the best time to visit Namdaemun Market is in spring and autumn. Located in the heart of Seoul, Namdaemun Market offers a traditional market atmosphere where you can experience Korean culture.