Bangsan Market

Bangsan Market is a traditional market located in the Jugyo-dong neighborhood of Jung-gu, Seoul. Bangsan Market is famous for its wrapping paper, pressed in Korea, and there are more than 550 stores. These days, home baking is fashionable in Korea because people can get ingredients and recipes easily through the internet. Therefore, even many young people visit Bangsan Market on holidays such as Valentine's Day or Pepero Day.

The name Bangsan actually comes from the location's former condition during the Joseon Dynasty when it was crowded with beggars. It was famous for its bad smell, but people started calling this place Bangsan, the "bang" in which ironically means fragrant.

According to the Seoul Metropolitan Government, Bangsan Market has been prepared as a tourist destination since 2011. Its plan is quite different from former modernization plans in order to provide the feel of a natural traditional market. The Seoul Metropolitan Government expects that it will contribute considerably to improving its local image. To go to Bangsan Market, take Seoul subway line 2 to Euljiro 4-ga Station and exit through gate 4, 5 or 6.