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Discover Local in Seoul - EN

For a truly local experience, head to Mapo Agricultural and Marine Products Market. The big draw here is the fresh seafood, complete with the option to eat what you’ve just bought! Simply ask the stall-owner and they will direct you to a restaurant upstairs where your fresh catch will be cooked for you right away. Try traditional favourites such as snow crab, abalone or squid. Among the many delights here, you’ll find local fruits and vegetables, and all kinds of grocery products, dry goods and snacks. The market is easily reached via several bus routes and is located close to the Seoul World Cup Stadium in Sangam-dong.

Discover Mapo Agricultural and Marine Products Market

Mercure Ambassador Seoul Magok

Known for its local university, Hongdae is a cool area popular with students and tourists alike. It’s a great place to catch some live bands and upcoming artists, thanks to its longstanding reputation as a hub for indie music. Hongdae is home to many clubs if you want to party into the early hours, but if that’s not on your to-do list, there’s a lot to see and do just by walking the streets. You’ll have plenty of company, with crowds of people heading to Hongdae day and night for its hip eateries, food stalls, pubs and cute cafes. Shops here sell the latest fashions, and when you need a breather, buskers will keep you entertained with their performances. To get here, take the Seoul Metro, disembark at Hongik University, and go through exit 8 or 9.

Roam the pedestrian streets of buzzy Hongdae

For years now, Bukchon Sonmandu has been popular for its authentic and incredibly tasty dumplings. Originally started in the 1950s from the Hamhung region in North Korea, the business came down to South Korea after the Korean War. Choose between fried and steamed dumplings, or select a mixed combo plate for the best of both worlds. This local institution is also beloved for its Korean noodles, usually made of buckwheat and served cold. It’s a compact space, and somewhat of a hidden favourite, tucked away down a side alley in Insadong. Local residents and visitors alike have been coming here time and time again for the delicious dumplings, meaning it’s very busy during the lunch and dinner rush, and there might be a short wait – but it’s definitely worth it.

Dumplings at Bukchon Sonmandu in Insadong

It’s easy to see why locals love Mangwon Market. Things are simple and down-to-earth here, but you’ll find everything you need, whether that’s groceries or a tasty lunch out. The market is indoors, set inside a large hall with a glass ceiling, and lined with lively stalls selling fresh fruit and vegetables, seafood, meat and much more. It’s also a great place to sample some authentic Korean street food, including local favourites like dakgangjeong (fried chicken with a sweet glaze) and hotteok (sweet pancakes). To find the market, take subway line 6 to Mangwon Station, and head out through exit 2. From there, it’s a short walk to the market, which is tucked away in an alley.

Traditional food and products at Mangwon Market

More like an urban park, this calm stretch of path and grassy areas is dedicated to all things books and literary history. It’s set along the route of a former train line and parts of the original track are still in place on the ground. Popular for walks, picnics and just taking a break, Gygeongui Line Book Street is dotted with book-themed art installations. Along the way, you’ll see various box-like shops in the shape of train carriages which are home to independent bookstores and art galleries. Cultural events also take place here, and the area is popular with students from the nearby university. You can reach Gyeongui Line Book Street by catching the Seoul Metro to Hongik University Station and coming out from exit 6.

Discover Local in Seoul - EN

Roam the pedestrian streets of buzzy Hongdae

Explore literary-themed Gyeongui Line Book Street

Traditional food and products at Mangwon Market

Discover Mapo Agricultural and Marine Products Market

Dumplings at Bukchon Sonmandu in Insadong

Mercure Ambassador Seoul Magok