"A Food Festival Every Five Days" – 5 Must-Visit Destinations
For February’s travel recommendations, the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) has highlighted the theme of traditional five-day markets across the country.
These markets, rich in local flavors and history, offer visitors a unique cultural and culinary experience.
Here are five must-visit destinations where you can savor the warmth of a hearty meal and appreciate the charm of traditional Korean markets.
Moran Folk Market in Seongnam operates on the 4th and 9th of every month.
The market transforms from an open parking lot into a bustling hub of vendors, complete with tented stalls and vibrant energy.
Dating back to the Joseon Dynasty, it has long been one of the largest traditional markets in Korea.
One of its highlights is the "Baeknyeon Oil Alley," a special street lined with more than 40 stores that have been selling oils for over 40 years.
Visitors can participate in the “Roasting Lab” experience program, which includes an introduction to different types of oils, demonstrations of oil pressing, a guided market tour, and even a hands-on session making sesame brittle.
Although this program officially starts in March, groups can arrange customized experiences by contacting the market in advance.
Operating on the 3rd and 8th of every month, Bukpyeong Folk Market is historically known for its "Soejeon" (cattle market), which once flourished in the area.
While the cattle market has since relocated to Samcheok in 2008, its legacy remains in the form of the famous "Gukbap Alley," where the most renowned dish is Somaerigukbap (Ox Head Soup).
After exploring the market, visitors can head to Doch'aebigol Sky Valley, a 59-meter-high skywalk offering breathtaking views of the East Sea, Mukho Lighthouse, and Mukho Port.
Another nearby attraction is Jeoncheon Floating Bridge Garden, a scenic walkway built on a repurposed 265-meter-long railway bridge, which becomes even more enchanting when illuminated at night.
Chuam Chotdaebawi (Candlestick Rock) and the surrounding sculpture park also provide a stunning backdrop for an evening stroll under the glow of themed lighting displays, recently rebranded as the "Yeomyeongbit Theme Park."
Danyang Gugyeong Market, named after the famous Danyang Eight Scenic Views (Danyang Palgyeong), is a popular tourist attraction known for its vibrant food scene.
With approximately 120 stores, the market has gained a reputation as a hotspot for food lovers, particularly among younger travelers.
Danyang is renowned for its high-quality six-clove garlic, which thrives in the region’s limestone-rich soil and large day-night temperature fluctuations.
As a result, the market specializes in garlic-infused delicacies, such as black garlic fried chicken, garlic bread, garlic sundae (Korean blood sausage), garlic dumplings, and garlic ribs.
After indulging in these delicious treats, visitors can head to Mancheonha Skywalk, a 25-meter-high observation deck offering panoramic views of the snow-covered Sobaeksan Mountain and Danyang’s picturesque townscape.
Another must-see is Danyanggang Jando, a 1.12-km-long cliffside walkway along the Namhangang River, where visitors can experience the eerie sounds of the ice cracking in winter.
The newly opened Pops World, an immersive media art exhibition, also makes for a fascinating addition to any Danyang itinerary.
Dating back to the early 1900s, Changnyeong Traditional Market was once a gathering place for traveling merchants.
On the 3rd and 8th of each month, the market comes alive with visitors, creating a lively and bustling atmosphere from the early morning hours.
One of the market’s most famous dishes is Sugure Gukbap (Beef Cartilage Soup), a delicacy that gained nationwide fame after being featured on TV.
Sugure, a rare and gelatinous part of beef found in small quantities per cow, is slow-cooked into a hearty soup.
Locals enjoy adding noodles to enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.
Beyond the market, visitors can explore Changnyeong’s historical sites, including Changnyeong Hyanggyo (Confucian Academy), the Seokbinggo (Stone Ice Storage), the Inscription Stele of King Jinheung of Silla, and the Three-Story Stone Pagoda at Suljeong-ri.
Nature enthusiasts will enjoy Upo Wetlands, home to a diverse ecosystem, or Changnyeong Ecological Insect Museum, where visitors can observe and interact with various insect species.
For a family-friendly experience, the Santokki Song Park, inspired by a beloved Korean children’s song, offers playful activities for children.
Located in Buk-gu, Gwangju, Malbau Market is one of the largest traditional markets in the Honam region, boasting over 500 shops.
The market is particularly famous for its Patjuk (Red Bean Porridge), a traditional Korean comfort food.
Vendors specializing in red beans sell both Patjuk and Dongji-juk (Winter Solstice Porridge), making it a must-try for visitors seeking an authentic taste of Korean cuisine.
In addition to the market, travelers can visit the National May 18th Democracy Cemetery, dedicated to commemorating the Gwangju Uprising of 1980.
For history buffs, the National Gwangju Museum offers an extensive collection of artifacts from prehistoric times to the Joseon Dynasty, including exquisite celadon and white porcelain from Korea and other parts of Asia.
The Gwangju Museum of Art, Korea’s first public contemporary art museum, is another excellent stop for those interested in the local art scene.
Each of these five-day markets represents a slice of Korea’s rich history, culture, and cuisine.
Whether you’re indulging in a bowl of steaming gukbap, savoring garlic-infused delicacies, or exploring historic and natural landmarks, these destinations promise an unforgettable journey through Korea’s vibrant traditions.
If you're a food enthusiast or cultural explorer, make sure to add these markets to your travel bucket list!
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Source : https://n.news.naver.com/mnews/article/015/0005088193
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