Noryangjin Fish Market

Overview

Noryangjin Fish Market is Seoul's largest wholesale and retail seafood market, a sprawling complex where you can select live fish, shellfish, and octopus from tanks and have them prepared sashimi-style at upstairs restaurants.

Highlights

• Live Seafood Selection: Pick from tanks of fish, crab, sea urchin, abalone, and octopus.
• Eat Upstairs: Take your selection to any upstairs restaurant for preparation — sashimi, grilled, or soup.
• Wholesale Atmosphere: The wholesale action begins before dawn and peaks in the early morning.

History

Established in 1927, Noryangjin is Korea's largest and oldest fish market. The market moved to a modern new building in 2016, though some vendors remain in the atmospheric old hall next door.

Visitor Tips

• Two Buildings: Both the modern new market and the old market building operate — the old one has more character.
• Morning Visit: The freshest selection is available early; upstairs restaurants open from 9 AM.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.