“Where does the real heart of a country beat?” I ask you. It beats far away from museums and monuments. It beats right here at the entrance to Gwangmyeong Traditional Market.
Gwangmyeong Market is more than just a place to shop. It is a glimpse into the everyday life of local people. Here you can see the busy messy malleable aesthetic and vibrant ambiance. It’s right here at the Gwangmyeong Traditional Market entrance.
Let’s step inside Gwangmyeong Traditional Market. See piles of fruits and vegetables form endless shapes and colors. Various stands sell local tapestries textiles and blankets. You can find fish and butchers here with a nice bargain. You could spend hours here lost watching unique scenes.
Gwangmyeong Market started in the 1970s. It has been carefully maintained despite large shopping malls nearby. Many traditional markets have disappeared because of large corporations. Gwangmyeong Market has many family stores that continue to operate. They give hope for the future.
Originally Gwangmyeong Market had about 400 stores. It is a large market divided into different streets. These include Red Street Green Street and Purple Street.
Are you ready to explore Gwangmyeong Traditional Market? This market is one of the three major traditional markets in Gyeonggi-do. It has over 350 stalls and stores. Gwangmyeong Market has become a pleasant place to shop through remodeling. It is now very convenient.
You can find almost everything in Gwangmyeong Market. It might take you more than an hour to explore the whole complex. If you want to feel closer to Korean citizens visit Gwangmyeong Traditional Market.
To get here take subway line 7 to Gwangmyeong Sageori Station. Use exits 9 and 10. Walk straight for about 50 meters. You will find the entrance to the market.
You can also take buses. Gwangmyeong city buses 1 11-1 and 11-2 will take you here. Seoul city buses 6615 and 6616 also stop here.
A customer center is in the middle of the market. You can rest here for a while.
Gwangmyeong Market. A place where the pulse of Korea can be felt. A place where memories are made. A place to experience the true heart of the country.