Why Foreigners Should Avoid Gwangjang Market: What Visitors Need to Know

The Hidden Side of Korea’s Famous Old Market

Gwangjang Market is often shown as a vibrant food paradise—bindaetteok, mayak kimbap, noodles sizzling on hot pans. But many foreign visitors walk away disappointed, overwhelmed, or even feeling scammed. With the rise of social media, the gap between expectation and reality has grown wider.

The Real Reasons Many Foreigners Avoid Gwangjang Market

Overpricing Targeting Tourists

This is the biggest complaint.

Some stalls intentionally charge foreigners more than locals.
Prices often aren’t displayed, leaving tourists unsure until the bill arrives.
Simple dishes can end up costing 2–3 times more than in local neighborhoods.

Example: A plate of bindaetteok that normally costs 5,000–7,000 KRW can be offered to foreigners at 12,000–15,000 KRW.

Tip: Always ask for the price before ordering.

Crowds So Dense You Can’t Actually Explore

A Market Turned Into a Tourist Funnel

Gwangjang Market became a hotspot shown in Netflix and travel vlogs. The result?

Narrow walkways packed shoulder-to-shoulder
Long lines for food stalls
Difficulty finding a seat, even for small meals
Pickpocket risks in peak hours

For many travelers, the stress outweighs the experience.

Food Quality Isn’t Consistent

Not All Stalls Are Authentic

Some vendors focus on high turnover and quick profits, not quality.
Common issues include:

Food being pre-cooked and reheated
Overly salty dishes tailored for tourists
Hygiene concerns due to dense crowds and constant rush

If you expect “grandma’s traditional Korean flavor,” you might be disappointed.

Pushy Sales and Pressure to Sit

Aggressive Hawking

Many travelers mention feeling “forced” into a seat.

Vendors call out aggressively
Some block the pathway to guide tourists in
It’s common to feel pressured to order more than you want

For first-time visitors, this can feel uncomfortable and unwelcoming.

Better Alternatives With Authentic Korean Vibes

Try These Instead

Tongin Market (Seoul)

Traditional wooden tokens
Homemade-style lunchboxes
Less pushy, more local atmosphere

Kwangjang Back Alleys

Not the main hall—side alleys often have cheaper and more authentic food.

Mangwon Market

A local favorite where prices are clear and flavors are reliable.

Majang Meat Market

For BBQ lovers who want high-quality meat at reasonable prices.

Useful reference: Korea Tourism Organization
External link: https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/

Step-by-Step Guide for a Better Experience

Step 1: Decide Your Market Style

Want variety and authenticity? → Mangwon Market
Want quiet traditional vibes? → Tongin Market
Want meat? → Majang Market

Step 2: Check Prices First

Regardless of the market, always look for posted prices.

Step 3: Go During Off-Peak Hours

Avoid weekends
Visit before 1 PM or after 7 PM

Conclusion: Know What You’re Getting Into

Gwangjang Market can be fun, but it’s not the ideal place for foreigners seeking authentic and fairly priced Korean street food. Crowds, aggressive vendors, and inconsistent pricing make it easy to walk away frustrated.
Exploring alternative markets often leads to a friendlier atmosphere, better flavors, and a much more genuine Korean experience.

Why Foreigners Should Avoid Gwangjang Market: What Visitors Need to Know