Exploring Seosan Dongbu Market
Seosan Dongbu Market, located in the town of Seosan, is the largest traditional market in the city and has a long history. It serves as a hub for various goods, including seafood, vegetables, and textiles, making it akin to a department store for the local community. The area surrounding Seosan is known for its fertile land, allowing residents to sustain themselves for three years on just one year's worth of farming.
During the Japanese colonial period, the market flourished as Japanese and Chinese merchants came to Seosan for trade. Today, Seosan Dongbu Market is conveniently located near the Seosan Bus Terminal, attracting many visitors from nearby cities throughout the year, especially for its abundant seafood.
Among the popular items at the market is the local specialty, gongeang-i jeotgal (fermented shrimp), which is particularly favored by Seosan residents during this season. Gongeang-i is often mistaken for small shrimp but actually belongs to the crustacean family. The fermented product made from it is known as jahajeot or gamdongjeot.
Gongeang-i primarily comes from the West Sea, with its taste varying by region. According to "Sanrim Economy," gongeang-i can only be consumed as jeotgal, and its flavor improves with age. The preparation involves salting ingredients like abalone, conch, cucumber, and radish before mixing them with the gongeang-i and storing them in jars.
This traditional method is mentioned in the old cookbook "Siui Jeonseo," which states that gongeang-i jeotgal is best enjoyed steamed. It is commonly used as a seasoning or condiment in soups, stews, and vegetable dishes, adding a rich flavor profile.
Seosan Dongbu Market is well-known for its variety of jeotgal, attracting many customers who come to taste and purchase shrimp jeotgal. In April, the market is filled with seasonal seafood, and the sight of fresh eel brings back memories of enjoying eel bibimbap.
The octopus from Seosan's waters looks exceptionally fresh and appetizing. No matter when you visit, you can always find fresh seafood at Seosan Dongbu Market, making it a delightful place to shop and explore.
The market offers a wide range of seafood due to the rich marine biodiversity of Seosan, including fresh squid and other delicacies. The seafood center is a vibrant area where vendors are friendly and eager to share information about their products.
At the entrance of Seosan Dongbu Market, you can find vendors preparing and selling fresh fish, allowing customers to buy fish directly or purchase dried fish that has been freshly cleaned. Many tourists buy seafood here, drawn by the reasonable prices and freshness.
During my visit, I purchased dried fish instead of live seafood, but I always make it a point to buy fresh fish whenever I come to Seosan Market.
Images from my visit:
Source :https://blog.naver.com/seosan_city/224283849946
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