Bupyeong Kkangtong Market(Night Market): The Culinary Heart of Busan

Follow the delicious aromas wafting from the alley entrance, and you will find yourself in Bupyeong Kkangtong Market. As night falls, those scents deepen and become irresistible—this is truly the beginning and end of Busan's renowned food scene.

Food vs. Merchandise

Located right next to the Gukje (International) Market, visitors often wander between the two. The key difference is simple: while Gukje Market is an "everything market" selling all types of goods, Bupyeong Kkangtong Market is the undisputed "food market."

While you can still find fresh produce, seafood, grains, and side dishes here, the sheer abundance of night-time snacks and ready-to-eat street food is what truly defines Kkangtong Market. You can find every type of food imaginable, whether you prefer to eat it standing, sitting, or taking it to go as a late-night feast.

A Legacy of Cans and Comfort Food

The name "Kkangtong" itself (meaning 'Can' or 'Tin Can') is a nod to food. The market earned this nickname because it was the primary place where canned goods and surplus items, particularly U.S. military rations, flowed in during the Vietnam War era. Since its origin story is tied to imported food, it is only natural that the market remains a culinary paradise today.

The Night Market Transformation

Bupyeong Kkangtong Market truly shines after sunset. As the sun dips, the overhead arcade lighting illuminates the market ceiling like a massive chandelier, signaling the start of the night market.

• Eomuk (Fish Cake) Alley: Do not miss the Eomuk-Matgil (Fish Cake Flavor Street). This alley is lined with stalls displaying fish cakes in every shape and size—square, triangular, and round. It is impossible to pass through without grabbing a bag of these beloved, savory snacks.

• Local Specialties: Lines often form in front of Tteokbokki shops famous for their TV appearances. Two items are considered local legends here:

• • Tteokbokki and Mul Tteok: The glossy red, spicy rice cakes are famous, often served alongside Mul Tteok (rice cake on a stick simmered in broth).

• • Yubu Jeongol: A hot, comforting specialty of fried tofu pouches (Yubu) stuffed with glass noodles and vegetables, simmered in a warm, flavorful broth.

The Midnight Streetcar of Food

Around 7:00 PM, a truly magical transformation happens: miniature food stalls, or mini-pocha (street pubs), roll into the marketplace like a silent train. This is the moment Bupyeong Kkangtong officially becomes a bustling Night Market.

These movable stalls, alongside the permanent shops, quickly set up small, round tables and low plastic chairs, transforming the long market aisle into a communal dining hall. The variety of food explodes, featuring everything from Korean and fusion dishes to international snacks.

As the night deepens, the atmosphere only grows richer. Visitors gather in groups, sharing a drink and enjoying the abundant food, their faces lit by the festive market glow. If you are looking for an authentic and energetic "Mukbang" (eating broadcast) experience in real life, the endless rows of diverse food at Bupyeong Kkangtong Market are waiting for you until late into the night.

Visitor Information

• Address: 48 Bupyeong 1-gil, Jung-gu, Busan.
• Website: Official Website
• Operation: Open daily (Individual stores may vary).
• Night Market Hours: Typically 19:30 – 24:00 (Check seasonal changes).

How to Get There

• Subway: Take Line 1 to Jagalchi Station. Use Exit 3 and walk about 9 minutes.
• Bus: Take Bus 8, 11, 96, 103, or 113. Get off at the Bupyeong Market stop and walk about 2 minutes.

Source: VisitBusan