First Visit to Mangwon Market
Today's post is about my first visit to Mangwon Market!
Mangwon Market is a traditional market located in the Mapo-gu area of Seoul, near Mangwon Station on Line 6 of the subway.
It's also close to Hangang Park and the World Cup Stadium, making it very accessible.
About 40 years ago, small shops scattered throughout the alleys of Mangwon-dong naturally gathered to create the bustling market we see today.
The market features a 215-meter long arcade, allowing visitors to explore comfortably in any weather.
Recently, many new menu items have been introduced to attract younger consumers, and payment by transportation cards (T-money) is now accepted, making it a popular destination for the youth.
Operating hours are daily from 10 AM to 9 PM.
Whenever I travel or go on a nearby outing, I always check out the local traditional market.
Since I was in Mangwon-dong, I intentionally stopped by Mangwon Market.
It's a very popular spot these days, so I was excited!
Before visiting Mangwon Market, here are some parking tips!
I set the public parking lot of Mangwon Market as my destination, and it was easy to find, located just to the right of the market entrance.
Both above-ground and underground parking are available.
You may have to wait for a spot on busy weekends.
You can get a parking fee discount with the largest receipt from your purchases at the market (make sure to keep your receipt).
Here's a tip!
When checking out, press the call button and show your receipt to the camera for an immediate discount.
I was just observing since it was my first visit, and thankfully, someone nearby kindly informed me.
If you're visiting for the first time, make sure to get your parking discount!
Access is excellent! It's a 5-6 minute walk from Mangwon Station.
There are many food stalls, small shops, and cafes along the way from the station to the market, making the walk enjoyable.
I was surprised to see a lot of foreign visitors!
K-food, like tteokbokki, fish cakes, and kimbap, is really popular these days.
In cold weather, it's hard to resist delicious food!
The prices are also very reasonable.
Seeing foreign tourists in line made me realize the popularity of Mangwon Market.
Markets are best when they're bustling! The lively atmosphere at Mangwon Market was evident from the entrance.
I think traditional markets are more fun when they're crowded!
Even though it was a cold day, I appreciated that the market has a roof, allowing us to explore without worrying about rain, snow, or wind.
I personally prefer markets with this kind of structure; they feel warmer and more comfortable than open-air markets.
Mangwon Market is famous for its food, including hand-cut noodles, chicken gangjeong, fried peppers, dumplings, and more.
I promised myself to try everything during my visit, but there were lines everywhere!
I chose a clean place with available seating.
You can see the dumplings being made right in front of you, so I went right in!
If you see this place, go in immediately!
I’m not a fan of kimchi dumplings, but these were spicy and clean.
The kimchi noodle soup was just average.
Honestly, many traditional markets have overlapping menus, making it feel like there's not much to eat, but this place was truly diverse.
I recommend having a quick meal and sampling various items as you explore!
You must try the freshly made steamed rice cakes!
I noticed a long line at 'Uirak', so I took a stroll around and came back to buy some.
The fried peppers and Uirak cream makgeolli were decent.
My honest review is that the fried peppers were great, but the makgeolli was too sweet for my taste.
The chicken gangjeong is a must-try!
You can choose from various flavors, which is especially nice.
I took some home, and even my child gave it a thumbs up, so I’m definitely planning to return!
There are so many delicious options like hotteok, twisted doughnuts, traditional snacks, peanut snacks, and walnut snacks.
If you walk to the end of the market, you’ll connect to the World Cup Market!
As I explored Mangwon Market, I found it connects to the World Cup Market, which has a calmer atmosphere compared to the bustling Mangwon Market.
After the energetic vibe of Mangwon Market, transitioning to the quieter World Cup Market was refreshing.
There are also plenty of sights, restaurants, and cafes around the market area.
I lost track of time just exploring the market today.
I look forward to my next visit!
Overall, Mangwon Market is popular for good reason.
I understand why so many people recommend it after my visit.
It has great accessibility, convenient parking, a reasonable size, and plenty of food!
Especially with its roof structure, it’s a great place to visit any time of the year.
Next time I'm near Mangwon Station, I will definitely return.
I highly recommend this market for anyone who enjoys exploring traditional markets!
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