Tongin Market (통인시장) is a traditional market located in Tongin-dong, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea. Established in 1941, it was originally a public market set up for Japanese residents during the Japanese colonial era, near Gyeongbokgung Palace. After the Korean War, as the population grew, it became a marketplace for Korean street vendors and stores.
Key Features:
“Dosirak Cafe” Experience: Tongin Market is famous for its unique “Dosirak Cafe” (도시락 카페) or “Lunchbox Cafe” concept. Visitors can purchase yeopjeon (엽전), which are old-style Korean brass coins, and use these coins to buy various dishes from different food stalls within the market to create their own personalized lunchbox.
Variety of Food Stalls: The market offers a wide array of Korean street food and traditional dishes, including the market’s popular gireum tteokbokki (기름 떡볶이 – stir-fried rice cakes in oil and spicy seasoning), mandu (dumplings), jeon (Korean pancakes), kimbap, and various side dishes.
Traditional Market Atmosphere: Beyond the “Dosirak Cafe,” Tongin Market maintains the lively and authentic atmosphere of a traditional Korean market, with vendors selling fresh produce, seafood, household goods, and more.
Historical Significance: Established during the Japanese occupation, the market has witnessed significant periods of Korean history.
How the "Dosirak Cafe" Works:
- Purchase Yeopjeon: At the “Dosirak Cafe” on the second floor of the customer service center, you can exchange cash (5,000 won for 10 coins) for yeopjeon and receive an empty lunchbox tray.
- Explore and Buy Food: Walk through the market and look for participating stalls displaying the “Dosirak Cafe” sign. Purchase your desired food items (most cost between 1-3 coins) using the yeopjeon.
- Enjoy Your Lunch: Head back to the “Dosirak Cafe” on the second or third floor, where you can get rice and soup for an additional cost (usually 2 coins each or 1,000 won). Utensils and water are provided for free. You can enjoy your customized lunchbox at the cafe.
Tongin Market offers a fun and unique way to experience Korean street food and the vibrant atmosphere of a traditional market, especially through its interactive “Dosirak Cafe” concept. It’s a great place to visit after exploring nearby Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Seochon area.
