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This traditional market, where goods have been traded since the olden days, is filled with charm and generosity. Local traditional markets should be essential destinations on any traveler's itinerary list, and this one is sure to make a meaningful and memorable experience.

Let's go on a journey into the past, full of delicious food, pleasant scenery, and plain old fun!

Tongin Market

Tongin Market, a traditional market built along alleyways with a long tradition, consists of about 80 stores, offering delicious food and things to enjoy. In particular, you have to try the specialty of Tongin Market, yeopjeon dosirak (brass-coin lunchbox).

#UsingBrassCoinLunchBox

1. Buy brass coins from a coin dealer

Walk about 100 meters from the entrance to Tongin Market until you see the Customer Service Center on the first floor and walk up the steps to find Yeopjeon and Dosirak Café, where these special coins can be purchased. Each coin is worth KRW 500, and 10, which is worth KRW 5,000, should be enough for one person. When you purchase these coins, you will also be given a disposable lunch box.

2. Buy food from the participating stores of Dosirak Café

Choose food items you want from the participating stores of Dosirak Café inside Tongin Market. As a wide variety of food items are available, including oil tteokbokki, tteokgalbi, "addictive gimbap," and dakgangjeong chicken, it's essential to be careful in your choices so you don't have any regrets. With options ranging from from savory meals to sweet desserts, it's tons of fun designing your own lunch box.

3. Eat at Dosirak Café

Once you load up your own lunch box, head back to Dosirak Café to enjoy your meal. Microwaves, utensils and even rice are provided on the second floor of Dosirak Café for you to sit down and indulge. The café is spread out over two floors with ample seating, and drinks can also be purchased with the brass coins.

#MarketTips

1. Customer Service Center

Hours: Weekdays 09:00 - 18:00 | Saturdays 09:00 - 13:00 | Closed Sundays & Public Holidays 

Restrooms: 1F (public bathrooms) | 2F (Dosirak Café and Customer Lounge) 

3F (Office of Discovery Team, Tongin Market and training room) 

The Customer Service Center is located inside Tongin Market for visitors. The center houses amenities such as a lounge and restrooms along with Dosirak Café. A useful tip is that visitors who purchase coffee or other drinks from the café inside the Customer Service Center will receive KRW 500 off their purchase.

2. Parking information 

Singyo Public Parking Lot (paid) KRW 3,000 per hour 

89, Jahamun-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul 

Public transportation is recommended when visiting Tongin Market. If you opt to drive to the market, you should check the parking information in advance.

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