Gyeongju Jungang Market

Overview

Gyeongju Jungang Market is the city's largest and oldest traditional market, a covered labyrinth of vendor stalls serving everything from fresh seafood and produce to Gyeongju's signature street snacks. Unlike tourist-oriented markets in larger cities, Jungang remains a genuinely local hub where residents do their daily shopping.

Highlights

• Ssambap Alley: A lane of women serving lettuce-wrapped rice with dozens of banchan (side dishes) — a beloved Gyeongju lunch tradition.
• Gyeongju Bread Stalls: Freshly baked hwangnam-ppang (red-bean bread) sold warm from the oven throughout the market.
• Dried-Goods Section: Dried persimmons, local wild herbs, and medicinal ingredients unique to the Gyeongsang region.

History

The market has operated continuously since the 1960s, although informal trading at the site dates to the Joseon era. It was modernized with a covered arcade roof in the 1990s but retains its traditional atmosphere and vendor-run character.

Visitor Tips

• Best time: Mornings (before 10:00) for the freshest produce and seafood; lunch hour for ssambap.
• Cash preferred: Many vendors don't accept cards.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.