Nostalgic, warm, and delicious—A heartwarming and satisfying feast at Seoul’s Tongin Market

Reported by Chang Hsin-tzu / Seoul

Located between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Anguk Station, Tongin Market is a public market established during the Japanese colonial period. Unlike typical traditional markets, it is best known for its “pan-fried rice cakes,” and in recent years, it has attracted both locals and tourists with its fun and nostalgic “lunchbox market.”

▲ Just look for this sign, and you can exchange coins for food. (Photo by Chang Hsin-tzu)

To attract younger visitors to traditional markets, Seoul came up with the idea of the “lunchbox market.” Upon arriving at the market, visitors go to the market service center to purchase ancient-style copper coins as tokens, which can then be used to select their “lunchbox” meals from dozens of stalls offering “plate meals.”

▲ The wide array of food choices can make it hard to decide what to eat. (Photo by Chang Hsin-tzu)

The nostalgic yet novel experience, the dazzling variety of side dishes, and the enthusiastic “food support” from the friendly market vendors ensure that visitors not only enjoy delicious food but also feel the warmth of genuine human connection.

▲ For just 5,000 KRW, you can get a hearty and flavorful lunchbox meal. (Photo by Chang Hsin-tzu)

Business Information:

Location: About a 5–8 minute walk straight ahead from Exit 2 of Gyeongbokgung Station on the subway.
Business Hours: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, closed on the first Sunday of every month.
Meal Prices: 10 copper coins for 5,000 KRW (approximately 135 TWD), with side dishes costing 1–2 copper coins each.