Exploring the Everyday Life of Mun-san Free Market
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- blog.naver.com

Walking Through the Everyday Life Beyond the Bustle of Market Days
Mun-san Free Market
On weekdays, the traditional market offers a different perspective on daily life.
While the bustling market days come to mind when we think of traditional markets,
have you ever wondered what it looks like when it’s not a market day?
To discover the market on a weekday,
I visited Mun-san Free Market in Paju City.
I was able to see another face of the market,
where everyday shopping continues.
At the entrance, there is a map to guide visitors.
Under the large sign at the entrance,
a long arcade leads the way.
With a roof installed,
you can stroll around without being affected by the weather.
Near the entrance, there is a store directory,
making it convenient for first-time visitors to explore the market alleys.
On weekdays when the market is not bustling,
the atmosphere was relatively quiet.
I encountered shops selling fruits and vegetables, as well as clothing and miscellaneous goods.
As I slowly wandered,
I admired the light coming from the ceiling and the paintings on the walls.
Familiar ingredients like apples, tangerines, radishes, and green onions were displayed,
with prices handwritten, catching my eye.
As I walked a bit further,
I found shops selling bags, hats, and clothes.
This market was not just about food,
but also a place where you could find everyday necessities.
In another alley,
I could see various grains on display.
There was also a mill that sold sesame oil, perilla oil, and red pepper powder.
Familiar to many as Mun-san Market,
it operates under the name Mun-san Free Market.
It is a traditional market where you can shop on weekdays.
From meals to snacks!
If you get hungry while shopping,
there are food stalls you can stop by.
Shops offered meals like barley rice, toast, and bone soup,
and I also saw rice cake vendors in the market alleys.
Though I didn’t eat this time,
I hope to try a meal at the market next time.
In front of the Mun-san toast shop,
there was a resting area with tables and chairs.
As a shared space, please follow the rules posted,
such as prohibiting drinking and smoking.
Since the operating hours of restaurants and shops may vary,
it is advisable to check before visiting.
Inside the market,
there is a space called 'Mun-san Free Market Station' with decorations and benches reminiscent of a train station.
Seeing directional signs indicating 46km to Seoul and 216km to Pyongyang,
I felt the unique characteristics of the border area of Paju.
For those looking for places to visit in Paju,
this photo zone is worth checking out.
Mun-san Free Market is a place filled with small attractions and everyday vibrancy,
even on days when the market is not bustling.
Visit to experience the charm that is different from market days!

Source :https://blog.naver.com/paju_si/224458834381
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