Namdaemun Market (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Namdaemun Market?
What makes it 71% Kids-Friendly: Kids can hunt for toys, socks, and sweet hotteok while learning market life, yet very dense alleys, few benches, and no play zone mean parents must supervise closely and rest breaks are scarce.
Positives:
- Vibrant food alley: Kids can try new flavors in small portions
- Easy subway access: Hoehyeon Station Exit 5 leads directly into the market
Challenges:
- Crowded lanes: Narrow aisles get busy at peak hours; hold kids’ hands
- Limited seating: Few benches are available; plan snack breaks
What is Namdaemun Market?
- A sprawling traditional market in central Seoul tracing its origins to the 15th-century Joseon dynasty
- Home to nearly 6,000 wholesale and retail stalls offering textiles, clothing, kitchenware, folk crafts and imported goods
- A layout that interweaves simple open-air stalls and low-rise market buildings along themed alleys reflecting Korea’s enduring trade traditions
What is so special about Namdaemun Market for with kids?
- Massive selection of affordable kids’ clothes
- Fun street-food alley with kid-friendly snacks
- Photo ops at historic Sungnyemun Gate
- Easy access from Hoehyeon Station
- Relaxing art and café space at Piknic
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: 2-3 hours lets your family browse stalls, sample snacks, and rest without rushing
Kids-Friendly Activities in Namdaemun Market
Browse children’s clothing stalls:
Over 6,000 stalls sell kids’ clothes starting at 1,000 KRW
Tip: Look for size labels and ask vendors for bundle discounts
Sample street snacks:
Share honey hotteok, corn dogs or steamed dumplings at Food Alley
Tip: Buy one serving to share and bring wet wipes
Photograph Sungnyemun Gate:
Take family photos at Korea’s National Treasure No. 1
Tip: Visit around 10 AM for fewer crowds
Rest at Piknic art space:
Enjoy a kid-friendly gallery and café under trees
Tip: Buy tickets at the door and head to the children’s book corner
When is the best time to visit Namdaemun Market (Seoul, South Korea)?
The market is open-air year-round. In summer, start early and carry water. In winter, wear layers and keep hands warm.
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Reviews of Namdaemun Market (Seoul)
Kerry Lamb
Amazing food, so fun to just walk around people watching and try all the different food stands. Felt safe as a single female traveler. A must when visiting Seoul!
Wendel Tse
There is so much to see and eat. Just be aware that it's more of a flea market feel here. Not that they sell used goods, but it's low prices and quantity you will find here, not trendy fashions or recognizable brands. In addition to the many stalls at street level, there are shops upstairs and an endless catacomb of micro stalls underground, many of which probably cater to locals.
jonbristolbs4
By far the cheapest place to buy your souvenirs, 14k for 2 baseball caps to name but one. I saw camouflage bottoms elsewhere, but got exactly the same here at less than 1/2 the price ( with a little haggling as I bought 2 pairs 😆) Even was directed to some toilets, that unknowingly was in a flower market so for a change they smelt amazing. It’s a maze of alleyways so be prepared to do a lot of wa...
The Gal Travels
Namdaemun Market is the ideal place to visit in the morning. The market opens around 9am and it is filled with anything you might want to find. They have a huge selection of clothing suited for the older folks. You can also find things like hats, pyjamas, jeans, food, groceries, stationery, fashion accessories, bags, and souvenirs. The market contains of both roadside and indoor shopping where yo...
Cynthia R
Great experience for shopping here! Love this place and definitely will come again. Prices for all the goods are reasonable if compared to Myeongdong market. Good food also. You can buy the hand craft here better. Recommended
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Street-food snacks (4 items) | KRW 12,000 |
| Souvenirs (4 items) | KRW 20,000 |
| Subway rides (4 people, roundtrip) | KRW 7,000 |
| Total Estimated | KRW 39,000 |
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 Namdaemun Market
- Plan your route: Grab a free map at the Tourist Info Center near Exit 5
- Go early: Arrive before 10 AM to avoid crowds and midday heat
Map of Namdaemun Market
Address: 21 Namdaemunsijang 4-gil, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
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About Namdaemun 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 2-753-280510 BEST nearby Activities
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