Seoul is well known not only as the biggest city in South Korea but also as one of the best places in the country to shop. From more local style markets to impressive department stores and malls there is no shortage of shopping destinations. If you’re looking to shop more like a local, “Dongdaemun“, which in Korean means east gate, and “Namdaemun“ meaning the south gate, are a must!
These two gates used to control traffic in and out of Seoul in the Joseon days and now are home to two of the largest and most popular markets in Korea. Despite their size, even Koreans sometimes struggle to differentiate between the two markets. But fear not! In this article, we have gathered and outlined the key differences between the two markets, and how you can make the best use of your time and resources while you’re there.
1. Price
We know price is often a significant factor in determining a potential purchase. In general across Korea, the nicer the facilities, the more expensive the individual products will be. Dongdaemun Market has a wide array of shopping malls such as Doota or Migliore, which offer much cleaner and modern facilities, but also higher prices compared to street vendors. This doesn’t mean you can’t find a great deal in these shops but do expect limiting haggling and prices similar to what you’d find in a subway shopping center.
While Namdaemun Market also has indoor malls, they are nearly nowhere as modern as the ones in Dongdaemun Market and are usually targeted at wholesalers. This means cheaper prices but larger quantities.
As for street vendors or underground markets, prices in both markets are generally comparable, but don’t be afraid to bargain or at least ask for a discount from smaller vendors.
2. Location
Namdaemun Market is located near Hoehyeon Station on Subway Line 4 (Exit #5) whereas Dongdaemun is directly connected to the subway station called Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station on Subway Line 4 and 1.
Namdaemun Market is very close to Myeongdong (about 10 minutes by foot), so make sure you visit both for a full-day shopping treat!
Dongdaemun Market spans a significant portion of the area so you can arrive by either Dongdaemun Station (Lines 1 and 4) or the Dongdaemun History and Culture Park Station (Lines 2, 4 and 5).
3. Navigating the Market
Both markets are incredibly large so it can be a bit tricky to get around, especially if you don’t speak or read Korean as many of the signs are in Korean.
In general, Namdaemun Market is the more “organized” of the two markets. All the streets and alleyways are categorized, so you can find what you want much faster. This also makes it much easier for you to compare prices of similar products before purchase. One thing to note, however, is that many of the indoor shops at Namdaemun Market are not that interested in selling goods to tourists as they target wholesale bulk buyers.
While Dongdaemun’s main market isn’t as organized or categorized, if you stay within the shopping malls (Doota or Migliore), it is usually much more convenient. Often these malls are organized by a specific category per floor (ie; men’s, jewelry, shoes, etc). Although this varies by demand.
Ultimately, which market you’d most like to visit comes down to what kind of experience you want. Namdaemun has much more of the “traditional market” feel, so if it’s more of the experience (or photographic opportunities) you’re after, Namdaemun is the ideal place for you. But if your main aim is to shop for more affordable Korean clothes and cosmetics, you’re probably better off visiting the malls at Dongdaemun.
4. Nearby Attractions
After looking around these two markets, be sure to stop by some of the nearby attractions for unique photo opportunities and experiences!
1) Namdaemun
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Near Namdaemun Market you can find Sungnyemun Gate, one of the three major gateways that led into the capitol in the past, and only a short walk away you can find yourself at N Seoul Tower, one of Seoul’s most iconic landmarks. Namdaemun is also known for its unique street food allies including specialties like kalguksu & galchi jorim (braised hairtail fish).
Check out these tours & activities near Namdaemun:
2) Dongdaemun
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In the heart of Dongdaemun Market is Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), an iconic landmark of Seoul, which has been designed as a cultural hub for people of all ages. It is also close to the famous Gwangjang Market.
Check out these tours & activities near Dongdaemun:
- SPAREX Sauna Entrance Ticket (Jjimjilbang) – Dongdaemun/Dongmyo Branch
- Immersive-K: Kansong Art Museum Media Art Exhibition Discount Ticket
- Seoul at Night: Special City Night Private Tour
- Seoul Travel Snap Photoshoot
- Seoul Highlights: Must-Visit Spots 1 Day Tour (+ Interactive Busking Performance)
- Seoul Night View Small Group Half Day Tour with Gwangjang Market Visit
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