Seoul Night Market Guide: Dongdaemun / Myeongdong / Bamdokkaebi - 서울 야시장 가이드: 동대문 / 명동 / 밤도깨비 야시장

Introduction

Seoul comes alive at night.

From bustling fashion streets to colorful food stalls, Seoul’s night markets offer some of the most exciting experiences for travelers.

This guide covers three of the most famous night markets — Dongdaemun, Myeongdong, and Bamdokkaebi — with food recommendations, shopping tips, and must-see spots.

서울은 밤이 되면 더욱 활기차고 화려해집니다. 거리 곳곳에서 먹거리·쇼핑·야경을 동시에 즐길 수 있는 곳이 바로 야시장이죠. 아래에는 서울의 대표 야시장 3곳을 정리한 가이드로, 맛집·쇼핑·사진 포인트까지 한 번에 확인할 수 있습니다.

If you want to enjoy Seoul like a local, this night market guide is the perfect starting point.


1. Dongdaemun Night Market (동대문 야시장)

Best For

  • Fashion shopping
  • Late-night street food
  • Trendy accessories

Must-Try Foods

  • Tteokbokki
  • Toast (Korean-style street toast)
  • Hotteok
  • Spicy grilled chicken skewers

Shopping Tips

  • Many shops open until 3–5 AM
  • Cash helps you get discounts
  • Great for buying clothes in bulk or unique designer items


2. Myeongdong Night Market (명동 야시장)

Best For

  • International visitors
  • Street food variety
  • Cosmetic shopping

Must-Eat Foods

  • Lobster with butter
  • Cheese tteokbokki
  • Chicken skewers
  • Egg bread
  • Korean-style grilled scallops

Highlights

  • Huge K-beauty product streets
  • Most vendors offer English and Chinese menus
  • Great place for souvenirs

명동 쇼핑 거리


3. Bamdokkaebi Night Market (밤도깨비 야시장)

Best For

  • Unique food trucks
  • Romantic night views
  • Local pop-up shops

Main Locations

  • Yeouido Hangang Park
  • DDP Plaza
  • Banpo Bridge Park

Popular Foods

  • Truffle fries
  • Fusion tacos
  • Craft beer
  • Handmade desserts

Special Features

  • Only open on weekends (seasonal)
  • Live music, handmade crafts, sunset picnic areas

길거리 음식


Helpful Tips for Enjoying Korean Night Markets 

✔ Bring cash or a simple payment app

Many stalls accept cards, but some still prefer cash or local payment apps like KakaoPay. It speeds up your purchases.

✔ Start from the back of the market

The front stalls are usually crowded. Walk deeper inside first—prices are often cheaper and menus more diverse.

✔ Go with an empty stomach

Night markets offer small portions, but you’ll want to try many different things. Don’t eat dinner beforehand.

✔ Check temporary pop-up areas

Bamdokkaebi Night Market often features rotating pop-up vendors and food trucks. New menus appear almost every week, so explore everything.


Conclusion

Night markets are one of the best ways to experience Seoul’s culture, food, and nightlife all at once.

Whether you enjoy shopping, eating, or taking night photos, Dongdaemun, Myeongdong, and Bamdokkaebi each offer a completely different charm.

서울의 야시장은 맛·쇼핑·분위기를번에 즐길있는 최고의 야간 여행지입니다야시장은 서로 다른 매력을 가지고 있으니, 여행 스타일에 맞춰 골라 방문해보세요.

Save this guide and enjoy the excitement of Seoul’s nights like a true local!