Looking to experience a traditional Korean market and try authentic local foods in a fun and unique way? Then Tongin Market is the perfect place for you!
Located near Seoul’s historical palaces, Tongin Market may not be as famous as Gwangjang Market, but it’s just as exciting — and maybe even more special. Here, you can walk through dozens of food stalls and create your own custom lunchbox filled with various Korean dishes.
This traditional market features around 75 stores, including food vendors and small shops. What makes Tongin Market truly unique is its coin payment system. Instead of using cash, you’ll use old-style brass coins called “yeopjeon (엽전)” to buy food.
🪙 How it works:
- When you arrive, head to the Customer Satisfaction Center (고객만족센터) and go up to the 2nd floor — the “Lunch Box Café (도시락카페)”.
- There, you can exchange cash for yeopjeon coins. Each coin is worth ₩500, and it’s recommended to buy 20 coins (₩10,000) — enough to fill your lunchbox with a variety of dishes.
- Don’t worry if you don’t use all your coins — you can refund the unused ones and get your money back!
- After exchanging your coins, you’ll receive an empty lunchbox tray. Then, it’s time to explore the market and fill it up!
You’ll find everything from fruits and vegetables to seafood and traditional street foods. Popular items include tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), gimbap, tempura (fried snacks), and fish cake skewers (eomuk).
🔍 Tip: Not every stall participates in the coin system. Look for shops displaying the “회원점 (Member Shop)” sign — those are the ones where you can spend your coins.
Once you’ve filled your tray with delicious food, return to the Lunch Box Café on the 2nd or 3rd floor to sit down and enjoy your customized Korean lunchbox.
It’s a unique, hands-on cultural experience that lets you enjoy traditional food, support local vendors, and interact with friendly locals — all in one visit!
📍 How to get there:
Take Exit 2 of Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3) and walk straight for about 10 minutes. You’ll see a large archway marking the entrance to Tongin Market. Then, walk about 3 minutes inside to find the Lunch Box Café.
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Written by Kayla Watson
