Dongjin Market, Hongdae, Seoul - Image 1
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Dongjin Market Hongdae Seoul

3.8
·434 reviews·, South Korea

Discover unique handmade crafts at Dongjin Market and dive into Seoul's trendiest shopping district, Hongdae, for fashion and fun.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekend afternoons

Vibrant atmosphere, full market

CrowdHigh
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Dongjin Market, Hongdae, Seoul - Image 1

Dongjin Market Hongdae Seoul

Best Time

Weekend afternoons

Vibrant atmosphere, full market

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover unique handmade crafts at Dongjin Market and dive into Seoul's trendiest shopping district, Hongdae, for fashion and fun.

3.8
(434 reviews)

"The alleys leading up to Dongjin Market were amazing, packed with trendy bars and restaurants."

Vertical photo
TIP

💰 Bring Cash for Stalls

Many vendors, especially at Dongjin Market, prefer cash. ATMs are available but it's easier to have won on hand.

🛍️ Explore Beyond the Main Market

The alleys leading to Dongjin Market are packed with trendy shops and eateries. Don't miss them!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Handmade Market Treasures

Handmade Market Treasures

Dongjin Market

Discover unique, handcrafted goods from local artisans. Perfect for finding one-of-a-kind souvenirs and gifts.

Custom Jewelry Stalls

Custom Jewelry Stalls

Alleyways near Dongjin Market

Get personalized necklaces and bracelets made on the spot. Friendly vendors create custom pieces with charms and beads.

Trendy Hongdae Boutiques

Trendy Hongdae Boutiques

Hongdae Street

Explore a vibrant street filled with fashion-forward clothing stores, vintage shops, and unique boutiques.

Wood Photo Booths

Wood Photo Booths

Near Dongjin Market

Capture fun memories with quirky and charming photo booth experiences. A delightful way to commemorate your visit.

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Planning Your Visit

Cash is King (Mostly)

While many shops accept cards, some smaller stalls and vendors at Dongjin Market prefer cash. Bring enough won to snag unique finds and avoid missing out on deals. ATMs are available nearby if needed. TikTok

Weekend Vibes & Hours

Dongjin Market truly comes alive on weekends with temporary handmade markets. Some visitors report it being closed on Saturdays, so check hours. Arrive earlier in the day for the best selection before popular items sell out. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Vibrant atmosphere, full market
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed browsing
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Also bring cash !! The way I could have spent a whole day here🥹 #seoultravel #seoulkorea #koreavlog #thingstodoseoul #koreamarket #travelvlog
@shirleyye_
829.4K likes • 4.4M views

💰 Bring Cash for Stalls

Many vendors, especially at Dongjin Market, prefer cash. ATMs are available but it's easier to have won on hand. TikTok

🛍️ Explore Beyond the Main Market

The alleys leading to Dongjin Market are packed with trendy shops and eateries. Don't miss them! Reddit

Replying to @chaewonplzgivemeachance find this man’s stall if you go - he is the kindest !!! #seoulvlog #seoulkorea #seoultravel #koreamarket #thingstodoseoul #customjewelry
@shirleyye_
231.7K likes • 1.6M views
Here’s a list of my favorite stores to shop for clothes on Hongdae Street: - AA place - Troubadour Hongik Uni. Branch - Mplayground - Brand Market - offline duty free And sooo much more if you just walk around the street #shoppinginkorea #koreafashion #koreashopping #hongdaestreet #thingstodoinkorea #koreaitinerary #seoulshopping #fashioninspo
@joycetldr
70.8K likes • 573.9K views

⏰ Check Weekend Hours

Dongjin Market is best on weekends for its temporary handmade stalls. Some report it being closed on Saturdays. Reddit

✨ Hunt for Unique Finds

From custom jewelry to vintage fashion, Hongdae offers endless shopping opportunities. TikTok+1

🎊 Must visit if you’re in Hongdae🧸🛍️ #seoul #seoulkorea #trip #koreatrip #koreafashion #hongdae #korea #fyp #offlinedutyfree
@ytrn.meshinchan
48.6K likes • 598.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

💰 Bring Cash for Stalls

Many vendors, especially at Dongjin Market, prefer cash. ATMs are available but it's easier to have won on hand. TikTok

🛍️ Explore Beyond the Main Market

The alleys leading to Dongjin Market are packed with trendy shops and eateries. Don't miss them! Reddit

⏰ Check Weekend Hours

Dongjin Market is best on weekends for its temporary handmade stalls. Some report it being closed on Saturdays. Reddit

✨ Hunt for Unique Finds

From custom jewelry to vintage fashion, Hongdae offers endless shopping opportunities. TikTok+1

📸 Snap Fun Photos

Look for charming wood photo booths for a fun, retro souvenir of your Seoul trip. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.8
(434 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Dongjin Market and the surrounding Hongdae area are praised for their vibrant atmosphere, unique handmade goods, and trendy shopping. Visitors love the discovery aspect and the affordability of many items. However, some find the market small or occasionally closed, and the area can get very crowded, especially on weekends.

"Small market but the alley leading up to it was amazing"

E T

"small but great variety and changes regularly. awesome wood photo shop there i purchase gifts from often"

RGY

"Was here on a Saturday afternoon but it seems closed"

Marie Cordes

What People Like

Unique handmade finds
Trendy fashion shopping
Affordable prices

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Market size
Occasional closures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Dongjin Market is a short walk from Hongik University Station (Seoul Subway Line 2, AREX, Gyeongui-Jungang Line). Exit 6 or 7 will lead you towards the market area. The surrounding Hongdae streets are also easily accessible from the same station. TikTok

While the main market area is relatively small, the surrounding alleys of Hongdae can be a bit of a maze. Look for signs pointing towards Dongjin Market or use a navigation app. The vibrant atmosphere of Hongdae itself will guide you. Reddit

Hongdae is best explored on foot. The area is very walkable, with most shops and attractions clustered together. Public transport via Hongik University Station is excellent for reaching other parts of Seoul. TikTok

Parking in the Hongdae area can be challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transportation to reach Dongjin Market and Hongdae. TikTok

Yes, several bus routes stop near Hongik University Station, providing easy access to Dongjin Market and the wider Hongdae area. Check local bus routes for the most convenient option from your location. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Dongjin Market and the surrounding Hongdae shopping streets are free to enter. You only pay for the items you purchase from vendors and shops. TikTok

Dongjin Market is primarily a weekend market, with its temporary handmade stalls most active on Saturdays and Sundays. Some sources suggest it might be closed on Saturdays, so it's best to confirm. Shops in the surrounding Hongdae area generally open later and stay open into the evening. Reddit

There are no admission fees for exploring the Hongdae shopping streets. It's a public area filled with shops, restaurants, and street performers. TikTok

Since Dongjin Market is a casual, open-air market, there's no need to book anything in advance. You can simply show up and explore. TikTok

To avoid the biggest crowds, try visiting Dongjin Market on a weekday morning if possible, though the market is most vibrant on weekends. Arriving earlier in the day on a weekend will also give you a better chance at less crowded browsing. Reddit

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

Dongjin Market is known for its temporary handmade markets, offering unique crafts, accessories, art, and small goods from local artisans. You can also find custom jewelry and charming wood photo booth prints. TikTokReddit+1

Hongdae is a fashion hub! Popular spots include AA Place, Troubadour Hongik Uni. Branch, Mplayground, Brand Market, and Offline Duty Free. Just wandering the streets will reveal countless other boutiques and vintage stores. TikTok+2

Yes, Hongdae is a fantastic place for vintage shopping. Stores like Mplayground and many smaller, independent shops offer a wide selection of pre-loved fashion. TikTok+1

Bargaining is not as common at Dongjin Market as in some other traditional markets, especially for handmade items. However, for certain goods or if buying multiple items, a polite negotiation might be possible. TikTok

Hongdae offers a range of price points. While some boutiques can be pricey, many shops offer trendy items at very reasonable prices, especially during sales. Look for multi-brand stores and vintage shops for budget-friendly finds. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography & Experiences

Absolutely! The colorful stalls, unique handmade items, and the charming alleys leading to the market offer plenty of visual interest. Don't miss the fun wood photo booths for a memorable snapshot. Reddit

Hongdae itself is a visual feast with its vibrant street art, unique cafes, and bustling crowds. The streets around Hongik University and the various shopping alleys provide endless photo opportunities. TikTok

Yes, some vendors in the Dongjin Market area specialize in creating custom jewelry, such as personalized necklaces and bracelets with chosen charms. TikTok

Beyond shopping, Hongdae offers live street performances, unique themed cafes, art galleries, and a lively nightlife. It's a hub for youth culture and creativity. TikTok

Yes, there are several charming and often retro-style photo booths located in and around the Dongjin Market area and throughout Hongdae, perfect for capturing fun memories. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While Dongjin Market is primarily known for its crafts, the surrounding Hongdae area offers a vast array of dining options, from street food to trendy cafes and restaurants. You can find affordable Korean food buffets nearby for around 8,000 won. Reddit

Yes, Hongdae has many affordable dining choices. Look for street food stalls, local eateries, and budget-friendly Korean food buffets. Some Reddit users mention options for around 5,200-8,000 won. Reddit

Hongdae is famous for its diverse culinary scene, including Korean BBQ, fried chicken, tteokbokki, and a wide variety of international cuisines. The area also boasts numerous themed cafes. TikTok

While not as prevalent as in some other areas, you can find vegetarian and vegan options in Hongdae. Many restaurants are accommodating, and dedicated vegan/vegetarian cafes are becoming more common. It's worth checking menus or asking staff. Reddit

Popular street foods in Hongdae include tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), odeng (fish cakes), hotteok (sweet pancakes), and various fried snacks. Be adventurous and try what looks appealing! TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hongdae, including the area around Dongjin Market, can be a fun outing for families, though it's primarily geared towards young adults and teens. The wood photo booths offer a playful activity for kids and adults alike. Reddit While the shopping can be overwhelming, many of the trendy boutiques and accessory shops might appeal to older children and teenagers. Look for street performers that often entertain crowds, which can be a hit with younger visitors. TikTok

For food, Hongdae has plenty of options, including more casual eateries and street food that kids usually enjoy. Consider visiting during the day to avoid the late-night crowds. If you're looking for a more structured family activity, exploring the themed cafes or finding a spot with live music might be more suitable. Remember to keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. TikTok

💸 Budget Travelers

Hongdae is a fantastic destination for budget travelers, especially for shopping! Dongjin Market's handmade goods can be surprisingly affordable, and the surrounding streets are packed with trendy clothing stores offering items at competitive prices. TikTok Many TikTok creators emphasize how cheap shopping can be here, with haul videos showcasing great finds. TikTok Look for multi-brand stores and vintage shops for the best deals. TikTok+1

Food-wise, Hongdae excels in affordability. You can find delicious and inexpensive meals at local eateries, street food stalls, and even Korean food buffets for as little as 5,200-8,000 won. Reddit Exploring the area on foot is free, and you can enjoy the vibrant street art and performances without spending a dime. TikTok

🛍️ Fashion Enthusiasts

Hongdae is a fashion mecca, and Dongjin Market's weekend handmade markets offer a unique opportunity to find one-of-a-kind accessories and statement pieces. TikTokReddit Beyond the market, the streets are lined with boutiques catering to every style. TikTok creators frequently highlight stores like Mplayground and Offline Duty Free for their curated selections of trendy and vintage fashion. TikTok+2 You'll find everything from K-pop inspired outfits to edgy streetwear and unique vintage finds. TikTok

Don't be afraid to explore the smaller alleys, as they often hide hidden gems and independent designer shops. The area is constantly evolving with new trends, making it a dynamic place for fashion discovery. TikTok Keep an eye out for sales and promotions, as many shops offer great deals, especially during seasonal changes. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Hongdae's Shopping Scene

Hongdae is a vibrant district renowned for its youthful energy and incredible shopping opportunities. Dongjin Market itself is a smaller, more curated space, often featuring temporary handmade markets on weekends, making it a treasure trove for unique finds. TikTokReddit The real magic, however, extends to the surrounding streets. You'll find everything from trendy, fast-fashion boutiques to quirky vintage stores and independent designer shops. TikTok+1 Many TikTok creators highlight specific stores like AA Place and Mplayground for their fashion-forward selections and good deals. TikTok It's a place where you can easily spend hours browsing, discovering new styles, and picking up affordable yet stylish pieces. TikTok

Beyond clothing, Hongdae offers a diverse retail experience. Look out for custom jewelry stalls where you can get personalized items made on the spot – a perfect souvenir! TikTok The area also boasts charming wood photo booths, offering a fun and retro way to capture memories of your trip. Reddit While the prices can vary, the sheer variety and the constant influx of new trends mean there's always something exciting to discover, whether you're looking for a specific item or just enjoying the thrill of the hunt. TikTok

Pro-tip for shoppers: Bring cash, as some smaller vendors may prefer it, and be prepared to walk! The best discoveries are often made by simply exploring the labyrinthine alleys. TikTok

The Dongjin Market Experience

Dongjin Market, nestled within the energetic Hongdae district, offers a more intimate shopping experience compared to the bustling main streets. It's particularly known for its weekend handmade markets, where local artisans showcase their unique creations. Reddit This is your go-to spot for finding one-of-a-kind souvenirs, handcrafted accessories, art pieces, and small gifts that you won't find anywhere else. TikTok The market's atmosphere is often described as charming and dynamic, with vendors frequently changing, ensuring a fresh selection each visit. Reddit

While the market itself is relatively small, the journey to it is part of the adventure. The alleys leading up to Dongjin Market are filled with trendy shops, cafes, and eateries, contributing to the overall vibrant feel of the area. Reddit Visitors often rave about the friendly nature of the vendors, with some even highlighting specific stalls, like those offering custom jewelry, where you can design your own piece. TikTok It’s this blend of unique artisanal products and the lively surrounding environment that makes Dongjin Market a must-visit for those seeking authentic Seoul experiences. Reddit

Key takeaway: Visit on a weekend for the full handmade market experience, and be ready to explore the surrounding alleys for even more discoveries. Reddit