Hongdae Free Market (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Hongdae Free Market?
What makes it 71% Kids-Friendly: School-age children can try low-cost craft workshops and use the small playground, yet parents must monitor closely because aisles get packed and there are no dedicated child services.
This place may be permanently closed. Please check official sources before visiting.
Positives:
- Interactive Crafts: Kids can meet and learn from local artists at simple DIY booths.
- Live Performances: Free music and dance shows keep the whole family entertained.
- Play Area Nearby: Children’s park offers slides and lawns for a fun break.
Challenges:
- Weekend Crowds: A large number of visitors can make aisles tight and busy.
- Limited Shade: Few covered areas mean it can get hot; prepare hats and water.
- Workshop Slots Fill Fast: Popular DIY booths can sell out; arrive early to reserve space.
What is Hongdae Free Market?
- A seasonal open-air market held every Saturday from March to November in Hongik Children’s Park near Hongik University
- A showcase of handmade crafts, original artworks and upcycled designs by independent Korean artists
- A creative platform established by local artist collectives to foster Seoul’s indie art and design community
What is so special about Hongdae Free Market for with kids?
- Browse over 50 stalls of handmade crafts and artwork
- Join child-friendly DIY workshops with simple materials
- Watch free live street performances on the open stage
- Let kids play in the adjacent Hongik Children’s Park playground
- Taste easy-to-eat street snacks like hotteok and corn dogs
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A half-day visit gives time to browse stalls, join a workshop, enjoy performances, and let kids play without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Hongdae Free Market
Browse Handmade Crafts:
Walk past 50–60 booths of metalwork, ceramics, leather goods, and up-cycled art.
Tip: Encourage kids to ask each artist one question to learn about their craft.
Join Simple DIY Workshop:
Pick calligraphy, fan-painting, or jewelry-making sessions for children.
Tip: Arrive early at each booth to secure a spot; materials cost around 5,000–15,000 KRW per child.
Watch Live Street Performances:
Enjoy free indie bands, dancers, and street acts on the open-air stage.
Tip: Find a bench or spread a blanket on the grass near 2 PM when shows start.
Play in Children’s Park:
Let kids run on slides, swings, and the small lawn next to the stalls.
Tip: Supervise children at all times; the area is open and unfenced.
Try Kid-Friendly Street Snacks:
Grab hotteok, mini corn dogs, or mandu from nearby food stalls.
Tip: Plan for 2,000–5,000 KRW per snack and share to let kids try multiple treats.
When is the best time to visit Hongdae Free Market (Seoul, South Korea)?
Open March–November on Saturdays. Bring sunscreen and hats in summer. Layer up in spring and autumn when winds pick up.
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Reviews of Hongdae Free Market (Seoul)
JoJo Jung (hellojojo)
This place is so cozy and peaceful! Also we can enjoy hidde musicians' great music :)
Aratrika
I recommend this place for tourists who are interested in art and creativity. There's a flea market with quirky jewellery and other interesting things to buy. They may be a bit pricey for the area. Must walk through to have a look even if you don't want to buy. There is the Seoul museum of art right above it, so over all a treat for creative people to explore.
Bong Kim
It's like a flea market. Lot's of small vendor stalls selling various crafts. Jewelry, bags and other knick knacks. Stays open late into the night. There are food stalls among the vendors also. It usually gets real crowded at nighttime. Not a place someone goes out of their way to shop at, just if you are nearby.
Wan-man WONG
A popular place for youth with lot of shops to eat to to buy
Donnit Delajungle
A really nice and tiny market. Most goods are handmade. You can find some original and unique gifts like painted cap and wooden craft. The place to go if you want to buy quality souvenirs for your friends and family.
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Admission | KRW 0 |
| Kids craft workshops (2 kids) | KRW 20,000 |
| Street snacks (4 items) | KRW 12,000 |
| Souvenir purchase | KRW 15,000 |
| Total Estimated | KRW 47,000 |
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 Hongdae Free Market
- Early Arrival: Get there at 1 PM when the market opens to avoid the biggest crowds.
- Use Subway: Take Seoul Metro Line 2 to Hongik University Station, Exit 9, for direct access.
- Pack Essentials: Bring a small backpack with water, snacks, and wet wipes for quick refresh.
Map of Hongdae Free Market
Address: 19-3 Wausan-ro 21-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
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