When the sun sets in South Korea, a different kind of magic comes alive — one filled with sizzling street food, neon lights, the hum of conversation, and the irresistible scent of grilled delicacies floating through the air. Night markets in Korea are more than just places to eat; they are cultural playgrounds where locals and travelers gather to experience the heart and soul of Korean street life. Whether you’re a food lover, a souvenir hunter, or simply an evening wanderer, these markets offer something for everyone.
If you’re planning a trip to South Korea in 2025, make sure to carve out your evenings to explore some of the best night markets the country has to offer. From Seoul to Busan, here are ten must-visit night markets that promise an unforgettable nighttime adventure.
1. Myeongdong night market
Right in the heart of downtown Seoul lies the Myeongdong Night Market, a legendary destination for both shopping and snacking. As twilight descends, this bustling district transforms into a lively food street where vendors set up their stalls with eye-catching displays and mouthwatering treats. You’ll find long queues in front of carts selling spicy tteokbokki, crispy hotteok, grilled lobster with cheese, and skewered steak bites that melt in your mouth.
While you’re munching your way down the street, don’t forget to explore the surrounding shops filled with the latest K-beauty trends, quirky fashion finds, and trendy accessories. Myeongdong is perfect for those who want a mix of food, fashion, and urban energy packed into one electric night.
2. Bupyeong Kkangtong night market
Head down south to Busan, and you’ll stumble upon the Bupyeong Kkangtong Night Market, one of Korea’s oldest yet most vibrant night markets. Its name translates to “tin can market,” a nod to its post-war history when American canned goods were sold here. Today, it has reinvented itself as a foodie’s dream, mixing tradition with innovation.
You can sample everything from Vietnamese pho and Japanese takoyaki to local Busan favorites like dwaeji gukbap (pork soup rice) and ssiat hotteok (seed-stuffed sweet pancakes). The diverse range of cuisines reflects the international spirit of Busan as a port city. Neon signs flicker over narrow walkways, and the air is filled with the sounds of sizzling oil, chatter in multiple languages, and upbeat Korean pop music. It’s an experience that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly global.
3. Dongdaemun night market
If you’re a night owl who loves shopping just as much as eating, then Dongdaemun Night Market in Seoul is your dream come true. This market is part of a larger shopping district that includes massive shopping malls and department stores open until the early hours of the morning. But just outside these buildings, the streets come alive with rows of food stalls offering everything from spicy chicken skewers to deep-fried seaweed rolls.
What makes Dongdaemun special is its energy — it’s fast-paced, crowded, and full of people chasing fashion trends, sampling bold street food, and hunting for late-night bargains. This market gives you a full slice of modern Seoul: edgy, stylish, and always buzzing with life.
4. Gwangjang market
Located near Jongno in Seoul, Gwangjang Market is one of Korea’s oldest and most traditional marketplaces, but at night, it takes on a different charm. The food alley comes to life with the smell of jeon (savory pancakes), gimbap (seaweed rice rolls), and yukhoe (Korean-style beef tartare). If you’re feeling adventurous, try the live octopus, known locally as sannakji, a delicacy that’s not for the faint of heart.
Although this market is popular with tourists, it’s equally beloved by locals who appreciate its authenticity and time-honored recipes. You’ll often see elderly women expertly preparing food behind their stalls — many of whom have been there for decades. The seating is humble, usually long wooden benches, but the flavors are rich with history and warmth.
5. Seomun night market
Daegu’s Seomun Night Market is a treasure trove of flavors, especially for those eager to try regional specialties. It has deep historical roots dating back to the Joseon Dynasty, but its night market scene is relatively new and rapidly growing. As you walk through the colorful stalls, you’ll discover dishes like flat dumplings (napjak mandu), tteokgalbi burgers, spicy stir-fried chicken, and even Korean-style pizza.
What sets Seomun apart is the creativity of the food on offer. Many vendors combine Western and Korean ingredients to create fusion dishes that are as photogenic as they are delicious. Add in street performers, live music, and a welcoming local vibe, and you’ve got a night market that feels like a community celebration.
6. Jeonju Nambu night market
Jeonju is widely regarded as Korea’s culinary capital, and its Nambu Night Market is proof of why. Located in the heart of this charming city known for its hanok village and bibimbap, the night market is a haven for foodies. Here, food is elevated to an art form, and presentation matters just as much as taste.
Expect to see vendors serving up everything from squid-ink hot dogs and rainbow-colored dumplings to grilled eel and artisan macarons. The market is also home to a youth mall, where young entrepreneurs sell handmade crafts, vintage clothing, and unique knick-knacks. It’s the kind of place where you can eat well and discover something one-of-a-kind to take home.
7. Cheonggyecheon Time market
What makes Cheonggyecheon Time Market unique is its scenic riverside location. Set along the peaceful Cheonggyecheon Stream in downtown Seoul, this night market offers visitors a chance to enjoy delicious street food while strolling beside softly illuminated water features and romantic walking paths.
This market is especially popular with couples and families who want a more relaxed atmosphere. Vendors here serve up skewers, pancakes, and Korean desserts like bingsu (shaved ice with toppings) in a setting that feels more like a moonlit picnic than a chaotic market. It’s the perfect place for those who want to unwind with food and nature, right in the heart of the city.
8. Suwon Nammun night market
Just outside Seoul lies the historic city of Suwon, famous for its well-preserved Hwaseong Fortress. But after exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site during the day, head to Suwon Nammun Market for a delicious reward. This market is loved for its generous portions, affordable prices, and home-style street food.
You’ll find traditional Korean comfort dishes like dakgangjeong (sweet crispy chicken), gimbap, and tteokbokki served hot and fast. The vendors here are known for their friendly personalities, and many have been serving regular customers for years. Suwon’s market feels more laid-back and authentic compared to some of the bigger Seoul markets, making it a great option if you’re looking for something off the beaten path but still full of flavor.
9. Mokpo Peace Plaza night market
Located in the southwestern coastal city of Mokpo, Peace Plaza Night Market is where the sea meets the street. With its open-air stalls and seaside backdrop, it offers a fresh take on the night market experience. Mokpo is known for its seafood, and the market delivers on that reputation with freshly grilled mackerel, abalone porridge, octopus skewers, and marinated crabs.
As you walk through the market, you’ll hear the distant sound of waves and see families, couples, and groups of friends gathering by the waterfront, enjoying their meals with a view. It’s a peaceful yet vibrant spot that reflects the maritime charm of the region. Don’t miss the seafood pancakes — they’re crispy, flavorful, and made with ingredients caught just hours earlier.
10. Ulsan Samsan night market
Ulsan is often overshadowed by neighboring Busan, but it holds its own when it comes to night markets. Samsan Night Market, located in the city center, is a lesser-known gem that surprises visitors with its variety and friendliness. The market features an array of snacks and meals that showcase both local and nationwide favorites. Here you’ll find deep-fried squid, garlic-butter shrimp, chewy rice cakes, and bubbling pots of odeng (fish cake soup).
The atmosphere is more relaxed and spacious than some of Korea’s larger night markets, making it a good choice for travelers who prefer a quieter yet flavorful night out. It also offers a great chance to mingle with locals, as many of the patrons are residents rather than tourists. If you’re looking to experience Korea’s night food culture without the crowds, Samsan Night Market is well worth the detour.
Bottom line
South Korea’s night markets are more than just a feast for the taste buds — they’re living, breathing spaces filled with energy, creativity, and cultural richness. Whether you’re watching a vendor flip pancakes on a sizzling griddle or taking that first bite of cheesy tteokbokki, each market offers a story waiting to unfold.
In 2025, as Korea continues to evolve its culinary landscape, these night markets remain timeless gathering spots where the old and new blend beautifully. So when you find yourself under the Korean night sky, follow the glow of food carts, trust the aroma that pulls you in, and let your evening adventure begin — one delicious bite at a time.
