International Market (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is International Market?
What makes it 85% Solo-Friendly: A solo visitor can freely weave through alleys, sample ₩2-6k snacks, bargain shop, and photograph vendors; daylight crowds are safe, and no childcare or seating needs complicate the visit.
Positives:
- Solo-Friendly Layout: Clear signage and multiple entrances let you explore alone without missing sections.
- Interactive Vendors: Stall owners offer small free samples and are happy to chat one-on-one.
Challenges:
- Busy Aisles: Paths narrow after 11:00 AM and on weekends, making navigation slower.
- Limited Seating: Few benches or tables; you may need to eat standing at vendor counters.
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 solo trip?
- Taste a range of street snacks at solo pace
- Browse vintage and local goods at your leisure
- Capture vibrant market scenes in morning light
- Use 1330 hotline for real-time help
- Negotiate prices to save on souvenirs
Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours
Why 3-4 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time to sample street snacks, browse stalls, and take photos at a relaxed pace.
Solo-Friendly Activities in International Market
Sample Street Snacks:
Try hotteok, sundae and honey ice cream at different stalls.
Tip: Pay per snack (₩2,000–₩6,000) and order from multiple vendors to compare flavors.
Photograph Market Life:
Capture colorful signs, vendor displays and local shoppers.
Tip: Visit between 09:00–11:00 for softer light and fewer crowds.
Hunt Unique Souvenirs:
Browse retro toys, Korean stationery and second-hand fabrics.
Tip: Start offers at 20% below asking price and negotiate politely.
Use Tourist Hotline:
Call 1330 (inside Korea) or +82-2-1330 for English support.
Tip: Ask for stall directions or daily opening hours.
When is the best time to visit International Market (Busan, South Korea)?
Summer: stay hydrated under the covered alleys. Winter: warm up with hotteok and spicy tteokbokki. Note: many stalls close on Lunar New Year and Chuseok.
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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 Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Street snack tasting | KRW 20,000 |
| Souvenir shopping | KRW 15,000 |
| Local transport (subway/bus) | KRW 4,000 |
| Coffee or tea break | KRW 4,000 |
| Total Estimated | KRW 43,000 |
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: Get there by 09:00 to beat crowds and enjoy fresh snacks.
- Carry a T-money Card: Use it for faster subway and bus trips to and from the market.
- Download 1330 App: Access live translation and stall info without a luggage-heavy guidebook.
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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