Gukje Market (국제시장) in Busan, formed after Korea’s liberation in 1945, expanded post-Korean War trading U.S. military supplies. It features sections like the food alley Silbi Street and vibrant Section 6. Nearby hotspots include Haeundae Beach, Gwangalli, Songdo, Dadaepo, Igidae Coastal Park, Taejongdae, Gamcheon Culture Village, Busan Cinema Experience Museum, Samnak Ecological Park, and Bosudong Book Alley.
Gukje Market (국제시장) is a traditional market located in the Sinchang-dong area of Jung-gu, Busan. It is open from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM and is closed on the first and third Sundays of each month. The market naturally formed after Korea’s liberation in 1945 when returning Koreans set up stalls. The market expanded significantly after the Korean War in 1950, trading in U.S. military supplies and goods smuggled through Busan Port.
Originally known as “Dotegi Market,” it got its name from the practice of gathering and selling various items in bulk. Here are some key historical milestones:
- 1945: The market started as an open space where people traded items left by departing Japanese and goods brought by overseas Koreans, initially called “Dotegi Market.”
- 1948: The market was officially renamed “Jayumarket” (자유시장, Free Market) and twelve single-story wooden buildings were constructed.
- 1950: With the influx of goods from U.S. military bases, the market earned the name “Gukje Market” (국제시장, International Market).
- 1968: Nine out of twelve wooden buildings were rebuilt using reinforced concrete, except for three.
- 1969: The Gukje Market Prosperity Association was established.
- 1977: The market received official authorization to operate.
- 1995: The market expanded to its current size, covering a land area of 7,197㎡ with a total floor area of 12,095㎡ and housing 1,489 shops.
Gukje Market has always played a central role in Busan’s commercial activities, alongside nearby Gwangbok-dong and Nampo-dong. It also served as a settlement area for returning Koreans from Japan and refugees from North Korea, many of whom became successful market traders.
During the Korean War, Gukje Market was a bustling hub, trading aid supplies, relief goods, and military items. The market also attracted many writers and intellectuals who had fled to Busan, making it a melting pot of commerce, society, and culture.
However, two major fires in December 1950 and January 1953 caused significant material loss and hardship for merchants and residents. After the fires, twelve two-story buildings were rebuilt, but the market lost some of its previous vibrancy.
With the armistice and the return of refugees, Gukje Market transformed into a general wholesale and retail market. In May 1966, the government promised to sell the market land to the merchants, and the transaction was completed. By January 1968, nine wooden buildings were replaced with reinforced concrete structures, and 1,489 shop spaces were registered to individual owners.
The Gukje Market Prosperity Association, established in January 1969, was approved by the Minister of Commerce and Industry, and the market was officially licensed in 1977.
Today, Gukje Market remains a vital part of Busan’s commercial landscape, offering a glimpse into Korea’s dynamic trading history and a unique shopping experience.
Sections 1 to 6: 12 Buildings, 24 Spaces
Gukje Market is divided into six sections, from Section 1 to Section 6, each with buildings labeled A and B. These sections form a total of 12 buildings, and with two floors, there are 24 spaces. Exploring these 24 spaces feels like navigating a maze, adding a unique charm to your visit.
Sky Bridges of Gukje Market
Gukje Market is like a maze, and first-time visitors might easily lose their sense of direction. If that happens, head to the second-floor sky bridges to get your bearings. These bridges connect the 12 buildings closely and offer a fantastic view of the bustling market below.
Silbi Street in Section 1
Silbi Street is a famous food alley in Gukje Market. In the evening, makeshift tables appear, and people gather for drinks. It’s a hidden gem known only to some. Visit Silbi Street for a relaxing time with a glass of soju and enjoy the generous side dishes that come with it.
The Shining Section 6
Section 6 of Gukje Market becomes even more vibrant at night. The street is lined with dazzling lighting shops offering everything from sleek LED lights to modern and clean designs. Nearby, you’ll find unique accessories and fashion items that add extra sparkle to the area.
Traditional Hanbok and Fabric Shops
The rising popularity of beautiful Korean hanbok (한복) can be seen in Gukje Market. The intricate patterns and elegant colors make hanbok stand out. On the second floor of Sections 5 and 6, you can meet artisans who have dedicated their lives to hanbok. Choose your fabric and order a custom-made hanbok, including wedding hanbok, royal court hanbok, and modern hanbok, all at affordable prices.
Movie Filming Location: Kkotbunine
The movie “Ode to My Father” (국제시장) brought many visitors to Gukje Market, especially to Kkotbunine, a popular photo spot. While taking pictures, be mindful of the surrounding shops and traffic. Look down at the ground to find the best spot for your photo. Remember to respect the photo zone line and share the space with others.
Hotspots to Visit Alongside Gukje Market in Busan
Haeundae (해운대): Haeundae is one of Busan’s most famous tourist destinations, bustling with visitors from all over the country during the summer. The beach is wide with shallow waters, making it popular for swimming. There are many restaurants and entertainment facilities nearby. Haeundae is also home to many luxury hotels that host international events. Visiting during the beach season allows you to enjoy various festivals and attractions. At night, you can experience beautiful night views and lively busking performances. Dalmaji Hill (달맞이 고개) features modern cafes and galleries and is known for its stunning cherry blossoms in spring. Nearby attractions include Dongbaekseom Island (동백섬), the aquarium, and BEXCO.
Gwangalli (광안리): Gwangalli, along with Haeundae, is one of Busan’s top tourist spots, known for its youthful energy. Gwangalli Beach has calm waves and is great for water sports like motorboating and banana boating. The area is filled with trendy restaurants, cafes, and fashion shops, offering plenty of food and shopping options. At night, relax with a cocktail at a café and enjoy the beautiful night view of Gwangandaegyo Bridge (광안대교). For families, Minrak Waterside Park (민락 수변공원) has a children’s water park. The park is also a popular hangout spot for young people on summer nights.
Songdo (송도): Opened in 1913, Songdo is Korea’s first public beach with a long history. It’s close to downtown Busan and is known for its beautiful beach and famous diving boards. Attractions nearby include Songnim Park (송림공원), Amnam Park (암남공원), Skywalk, and the marine cable car. Take a walk on the skywalk over the sea to Turtle Island (거북섬). The marine cable car, running 1.62 km from Songnim Park to Amnam Park, offers thrilling views of Songdo Beach, the coastal trail, Yeongdo, and Namhang Bridge.
Dadaepo (다대포): Dadaepo Beach is great for families with its wide sandy beach, warm water, and shallow depth. You can also enjoy mudflat experiences, catching clams and crabs. The area around the beach has parks perfect for picnics. The Dream Sunset Fountain combines music, lights, and beautiful water displays to create a fantastic atmosphere. You can capture stunning photos of both sunrise and sunset at Dadaepo. Nearby attractions include Gamcheon Culture Village (감천문화마을), Hongti Art Village (홍티예술촌), Molundae (몰운대), and Amisan Observatory (아미산 전망대).
Igidae Coastal Park (이기대 수변공원): If you’re looking for a great place to walk, Igidae Coastal Park is perfect. Located in Yongho-dong, Nam-gu, it features a coastal trail offering breathtaking sea views. The trail is also the starting point of the 770 km Haeporang Trail (해파랑길) that runs along the East Sea. From here, you can see Gwangandaegyo Bridge, Haeundae, and Oryukdo. At the end of the trail, walk on the Oryukdo Skywalk for a thrilling experience on transparent glass above the sea. The coastal trail can be challenging, so wear comfortable shoes.
Taejongdae (태종대): Located at the southern end of Yeongdo-gu, Taejongdae is a top tourist attraction in Busan, known for its lush forests, coastal cliffs, and views of the Korea Strait. On clear days, you can see as far as Tsushima Island in Japan. The park includes an observatory, Yeongdo Lighthouse (영도 등대), and Taejongsa Temple (태종사), making it a great place for a leisurely stroll. You can also take a sightseeing train for a more comfortable tour. Visit during the Hydrangea Festival in late June for an extra special experience.
Gamcheon Culture Village (감천문화마을): This village started as a settlement for refugees during the Korean War and has preserved Busan’s history. Once a rundown area, it has transformed into a cultural and artistic hotspot. The colorful houses on the hillside give it the nickname “Korea’s Santorini.” Take a leisurely walk through the village for a trip back in time. There are many photo spots, so bring your camera. Don’t forget to pick up a map at the information center and collect stamps along the way.
Busan Cinema Experience Museum (부산 영화체험박물관): For a fun outing with kids, visit the Busan Cinema Experience Museum. Located behind Yongdusan Park, it’s Korea’s first museum dedicated to movies, offering interactive exhibits that children love. Learn about the history and production of movies, enjoy unique film experiences, VR activities, and even dubbing. The Trick Eye Museum in the same building is a popular date spot for taking fun photos. Address: 12 Daecheong-ro 126beon-gil, Jung-gu, Busan Opening hours: Daily 10:00-18:00, closed on Mondays
Samnak Ecological Park (삼락생태공원): This expansive riverside park along the Nakdong River in Sasang-gu is a year-round retreat for Busan citizens. It’s beautifully landscaped, making it a popular spot for travelers to take pretty photos. The seasonal flower gardens feature vibrant blossoms such as canola flowers in spring, sunflowers in summer, and cosmos in autumn. The wetland ecological park is famous for its lotus, reeds, and silver grass. Enjoy a leisurely bike ride through the park and capture memorable photos.
Bosudong Book Alley (보수동 책방골목): Close to Gukje Market, this alley is lined with second-hand bookstores, dating back to when Busan was the temporary capital during the Korean War. It holds the memories and history of those times and is now a popular spot for those who love retro vibes. Stroll through the alley, take photos, and if you find an old book or magazine that catches your eye, consider buying it as a souvenir.