International Market (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is International Market?
What makes it 63% Kids-Friendly: Kids enjoy trying spicy tteokbokki, spotting murals, and choosing cheap toys, but narrow lanes crowd fast, toilets lack child fixtures, and no play area or stroller rental adds stress.
Positives:
- Covered Walkways: Rows of covered alleys protect from rain and sun, so kids stay dry.
- Interactive Food Experience: Vendors often let children watch or help serve, making food fun.
- Unique Local Goods: Imported daily items and vintage finds offer one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
Challenges:
- Narrow Aisles: Busy sections get crowded—hold hands and agree on a meeting spot.
- Limited Seating: Few benches available—plan to stand or bring a small foldable stool.
- Language Barrier: Some vendors speak little English—use simple phrases or a translation app.
What is International Market?
- A market that began during the 1950 Korean War when refugees traded imported daily necessities
- The largest and oldest marketplace in Busan, spanning multiple covered alleys and interconnected zones
- A commercial labyrinth of hundreds of vendors offering street food, souvenirs, home goods, and vintage wares
What is so special about International Market for with kids?
- Covered alleys keep kids dry and shaded
- Kids can sample affordable street treats
- Wide selection of toys and local crafts
- Art Street murals add color and fun photo ops
- Early arrival helps beat crowds and find seating
Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours
Why 3-4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time for kids to taste snacks, browse stalls, and explore art without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in International Market
Taste Kid-Friendly Street Food:
Try tteokbokki, fish cakes, and milmyeon at small vendor carts.
Tip: Order in small portions (₩3,000–₩6,000) so kids can sample more items.
Browse Toy and Candy Stalls:
Explore stalls selling novelty toys, candy bags, and dried fruits under ₩5,000.
Tip: Let each child pick one item to control spending and keep them engaged.
Explore Art Street Murals:
Walk through Sections 3–4 to see colorful wall paintings and live art demos.
Tip: Bring a small camera for kids to photograph their favorite murals.
Snap Photos in Covered Alleys:
Stroll the market’s covered lanes lined with vintage signs and colorful stalls.
Tip: Visit before 11:00 AM for softer light and fewer crowds.
When is the best time to visit International Market (Busan, South Korea)?
Visit in autumn (September–November) for mild weather. July brings daily afternoon showers—carry a lightweight raincoat.
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Reviews of International Market (Busan)
Joe McCright
I have visited many markets around the world. Most of them are similar. And I’m not looking to buy souvenirs or anything for a home or clothing so … the Gukje Market was just ok. Not unique. Coffee at Cong Caphe was terrific.
kat
Very large market located in Busan, selling a diverse variety of products and goods. Just from strolling here, you can buy blankets, clothes, pots and pans, and much more for very reasonable prices. I recommend coming here for a traditional market experience, since it had so many vendors selling very many products.
Silver C
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Bupyeong Kkangtong Market and Gukje Market are two of Busan’s most famous traditional markets—and they’re right next to each other in Jung-gu, making it easy to explore both in one trip. Bupyeong Kkangtong Market (aka. 깡통시장) • address: 39 Bupyeong 1-gil, Jung-gu, Busan • business hours: Open from 9:30 AM (Night market: 7:30 PM–12:00 AM) • Known for its night market, with global street ...
Hayes Weggeman
I enjoyed walking through the market. There are many stands selling all my bfs of things. The prices are good. It's worth going to this market to get better prices. It's a covered market so if it's raining it is a good place to get in out of the rain.
J LEE
Had some of the tastiest iconic Korean street food including dumplings, spicy rice cake, fish cake, blood sausage, clam noodles, and honey ice cream. Also bought nice socks made in Korea as well as Korean instant drinks.
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Street food snacks | KRW 20,000 |
| Souvenirs and toys | KRW 30,000 |
| Subway round trip | KRW 5,000 |
| Total Estimated | KRW 55,000 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to International Market
- Arrive Early: Start around 10:00 AM to avoid peak crowds and catch fresh snacks.
- Carry Small Cash: Many stalls accept only KRW cash—keep coins and small bills handy.
- Grab a Market Map: Pick up a free map at the info booth to plan your route by section.
Map of International Market
Address: 55 Gukjesijang 2-gil, Jung-gu, Busan, South Korea
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About International Market
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+82 51-245-738910 BEST nearby Activities
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