South Korea is renowned for it's great shopping centers. From small traditional markets to large department stores, the wide array of shops in Seoul offer something for everyone. You can find everything from handmade crafts, beautiful fabrics and apparel to the latest electronic gadgets. People come from all over the world to shop in Korea's many markets.
Namdaemun Market
Namdaemun shijang (남대문 시장;南大門市場) is the largest of the jaerae shijang (재래 시장;) or traditional markets in Seoul. This market has been a source of merchant activity for some 600 years and gets its name from the nearby and famous Seoul landmark Namdaemun (남대문;南大門), or Great South Gate. At the market you will find all manner of merchandise, including daily necessities, food, apparel, electronics and a plethora of imported goods. Shoppers will delight in finding prices on merchandise discounted up to 20%. Department stores, or baekhwajeom (백화점;百貨店), may have set prices but bargaining with smaller storekeepers is an acceptable and regular practice so make sure to brush up on your 'I like it but it's too expensive' expression. Shopping hours are determined by each store but the Namdaemun Market stays active 24 hours a day.
Dongdaemun Market
Dongdaemun shijang (동대문시장;東大門市場), or Great East Gate, has been a major market since 1905. Its specialization in inexpensive retail and wholesale items makes this a vibrant commercial center that draws foreigners and younger patrons alike. The wholesale section caters to wholesaler delivery hours so it's not uncommon for shops to open in the evening and close in the early morning. In Dongdaemun Market you will find large department stores such as Doosan Tower (두산타워) and Miglore (밀리오레).
Myeong-dong
Myeong-dong (명동;明洞 ) is the center of Seoul shopping excitement and if chasing trends is your thing, this is the place for you. Myeong-dong is noted for it's mid to high-priced name brand fashion retailers. Unique apparel shops, restaurants, and entertainments establishments line the downtown streets and keep this one of the busiest shopping districts in Seoul. Financial institutions are also found in Myeong-dong as well.
Insa-dong
The Insa-dong (인사도仁寺洞) neighborhood dates back to the Joseon dynasty and once hosed the Ministry of Art. Shoppers with an eye for fine art, antiques, calligraphy, ceramics, and traditional clothing will relish shopping here. Alley's are lined with art galleries, handicrafts, and secondhand bookstores. Ideal for collectors interested in historical artifacts.
Itaewon-dong
The Itaewon district (이태원동;梨泰原洞) is a place that has it all. Fine arts, antiques, bargain shopping, tailor-made suits, and high-quality leather goods can be found in the shops here. This area is highly frequented by foreigners living and visiting the area and most Western fast-food restaurants can be found among the throng of local eateries.
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