Korea's Traditional Markets - A Peak into the Past

One of the things I enjoy the most about being in Korea is visiting one of the many traditional markets sprinkled throughout the country.  You can find a traditional market in almost everyone of Korea's cities and I think it's a great way to experience the culture and see how the country's markets use to operate throughout it's history.  

     I love the scents, sounds and sights that welcome you from the moment you step foot in the market.  To be honest, some of the smells are a bit pungent but it makes for a memorable experience nonetheless.

     Three of the major markets in Seoul are Namdaemun, Dongdaemun and Moran Market.  All have their own character, speciality and atmosphere that distinguish them from one another.  

     Namdaemun is probably my favorite of the three and is located by the "Great South Gate" of Seoul.  It's feels the most authentic with it's winding streets, numerous alleys and wide variety of things for sale.

    I've only been do Dongdaemun (also known as the Mecca of Fashion) a couple of times, but it's much bigger than Namdaemun.  While Namdaemun is mainly an outside market, Dongdaemun is predominately indoors and consists of a number of different buildings.  There is an outside market at Dongdaemun as well, but most of the action is within the many buildings scattered around the East Gate of Seoul.  In those buildings, you'll find floor after floor of clothing, jewelry, appliances, bedding, etc.  Starting at 10pm, you'll find rows of yellow tents outside, opening their flaps for business.  You can take advantage of the shopping deals through the night, until they close up at 5am.  The crowds during the late hours are impressive to say the least.

Outdoor Market

Indoor Market

     The last, and most recent market I've visited is probably the most unique.  Moran Market is south of the Han River in Seoul and only operates on the 4th, 9th, 14th, 19th, 24th, 29th day of every month from 7am-7pm.  What makes this market more unique and culturally interesting is the buying and selling of live animals.  Everything from goats, chickens, ducks and even dogs.  Not more than 25 feet from the main road you'll see cage after cage of live animals for sale.
     They also have pets that you can buy, along with produce, clothes, tools, appliances, etc. similar to the other markets I've mentioned.  Some parts of this market were a bit disturbing, but it is definitely the most interesting one I've ever seen before.  I won't post all of the pictures from Moran Market, but if you were interested in more, you could probably just do a Google Image search on your own.
     All in all, Korea has a lot of character and culture to offer and one of the best places to experience both are in the markets.  Go often, visit as many as you can and enjoy the sensory overload that comes with it!

Puppies you can buy as pets.  Just put them in a box and take one home!