Opened in 1962, Seoul Central Market was once promoted alongside Namdaemun and Dongdaemun as one of Seoul’s major markets. Its importance came from early deliveries, preparation, wholesale-retail exchange, and restaurant supply—not merely visitor numbers.
Context
Large retailers and changing consumption weakened the market, followed by arcade improvements and culture-tourism projects. New bars and restaurants brought younger visitors, but foot traffic does not automatically secure older traders’ income or leases.
What changed
Look past the retail counter to early-morning receiving, trimming, storage, washing, and delivery. The long roofed corridor remains shared infrastructure for many different trades.
How to visit
Do not stop in the center of an aisle to search a menu. Ask prices politely, avoid unapproved close-ups of fresh-food displays and faces, and let working traffic pass first.