Gukje Market in Busan: A Lively Maze More Intense Than the Movies

If there is a Busan dialect phrase that perfectly captures the city's spirit, it is "Dottaegi Shijang Gatta" (like a Dottaegi Market), meaning an intensely bustling and crowded atmosphere. This "Dottaegi Market" was the original nickname for Gukje Market—and the name stuck. This market is the epitome of hustle and flow, overflowing with goods and people.

A History Forged by War

Gukje Market ("International Market") was established immediately following the Korean War when Busan served as the temporary capital. All manner of goods, including surplus military supplies from the U.S. Army, poured into the city, creating an urgent, necessary marketplace for survival.

Together with the adjacent Bupyeong Kkangtong Market, Jagalchi Fish Market, and Bosu-dong Book Street, Gukje Market is part of Busan's original super-sized commercial zone. Its status surged again after the successful 2014 movie Ode to My Father (Gukje Market), bringing it a second golden age.

A Maze Full of Charm

Exploring Gukje Market feels like navigating a giant maze. The buildings connect via alleyways, which then break off into smaller, secondary alleys. Its chaotic charm means you might find yourself wandering past the same colorful stalls repeatedly!

• Identifying Your Location: A unique feature of Gukje Market is the "Cloud Bridges" (Gureumdari) that connect the upper floors of the market buildings. These bridges, often marked with numbers, help you mentally map your location in the massive complex.

• The Vibe: With overhead arcades sheltering the narrow lanes and the bridges crisscrossing above, the market has a surprising, enclosed feel, almost like an old-fashioned indoor amusement park.

Your exploration might begin at the famous "Kkotbun-ne's Shop" (Kkotbun-ine), a recognizable spot from the movie, but the real adventure begins as you delve deeper. While it feels like a labyrinth, there is a method to the madness. After a few turns, you will start to identify the specialty sections, such as the Hanbok (traditional clothing) alley or the bedding district.

Where Everything but Nothing is Sold

You need to set aside ample time for Gukje Market, as the hours will melt away quickly. The variety of merchandise is so immense that the local saying is: "We sell everything but what isn't here."

You will find a mountain of goods, from classic Korean "ugly dolls" to vintage toys, princess bags, and fascinating trinkets. The joy of the market is the hunt—unearthing your own unique treasure from the piles of goods that make you think, "How did they even manage to source that?"

The Culinary Soul of the Market

No market visit is complete without sampling the food. The market alleys are dotted with stalls where people gather, sitting snugly around folding tables to share iconic Busan snacks.

• Must-Try Dishes: Don't miss Chungmu Gimbap (mini seaweed rice rolls), Bibim Dangmyeon (spicy glass noodles), Eomuk (fish cakes), and of course, Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) with Twigim (fried snacks) and Sundae (Korean sausage).

• Market Romance: While the seating might be slightly cramped or the atmosphere a little messy, this is the essence of market Gamsung (emotion/vibe). It is a genuinely romantic experience to share a quick, hearty meal right in the thick of the action.

Gukje Market is a place where you can find everything needed for life, yet simultaneously, it is filled with items you don't need, but desperately want. Take your time, feel the pulse of the crowd, and enjoy the thrill of discovering hidden gems. You will walk away feeling the life and dynamism of Busan flowing through you.

Visitor Information

• Address: 32 Junggu-ro, Jung-gu, Busan.
• Website: Official website
• Closing Day: Every Sunday.
• Operating Hours: 09:00 – 20:00 (Hours vary by individual store).
• Admission: Free (Cost of goods and food varies)

How to Get There

• Subway: Take Line 1 to Jagalchi Station. Use Exit 7 and walk about 7 minutes.
• Bus: Take Bus 15, 40, 86, 126, or 186. Get off at the Gukje Market stop and walk about 4 minutes.

Source: VisitBusan