Dongmyo Flea Market: The Best Thrifting Spot in Seoul
Looking for the ultimate thrifting experience in Seoul? You need to visit Dongmyo Flea Market, a small haven filled with vintage finds and unique treasures that’s considered the best of its kind in the city.
It’s a small flea market selling shoes, clothing, books, electronics and many other things. It’s one of the few flea markets in Seoul and definitely worth visiting if you’re into vintage / secondhand stuff.
Before going here, I could hardly find any information on the internet about a flea market in Seoul. After visiting, I realized Dongmyo Flea Market is a hidden gem for antique lovers and collectors.
That’s why I’ve written this post, to give you a better insight into what the flea market is like and why you should visit.
This article will take you through its winding stalls, guide your journey to navigate this shopper’s paradise and share tips on how to land bargains. Ready for a thrifting adventure?
How to get to Dongmyo Flea Market?
Getting to Dongmyo Flea Market is relatively easy. Just hop on public transport or take a taxi to the exact address.
By public transport
Getting to the flea market by public transport is simple. Follow these steps:
- Hop on the metro to Dongmyo Station.
- Get off at Exit 3.
- Start walking towards the Dongmyo shrine.
- Keep your eyes open for the flea market.
The exact address
You can find Dongmyo Flea Market at 243 Nangye-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea. It sits close to Dongmyo Station. To get there, you walk out of exit 3 and stroll for a few seconds.
You can walk onto the market for free. There’s no entrance fee.
Tip: You can also walk to the flea market from Dongdaemun Design Plaza. This takes around 20 minutes. Walk via the Cheonggyeon Stream. This is a beautiful walk across a stream and is a more relaxing way to get to your destination.
When you see Yeongdogyo on the bridge above you, it’s time to walk up the stairs and go to the left. Then you’ll quickly arrive at the flea market.
The opening times
Dongmyo Flea Market is a great place to go thrifting in Seoul. It’s important to know the opening times so you can plan your visit. The market is open from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM on weekdays and from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekends.
However, it’s good to keep in mind that the market closes before sundown and is closed every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month. So make sure to check the schedule before heading there!
Personally, I would not get here later than 17:00 PM if you really want to explore the flea market. Most stores are open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but remember that operating hours may vary.
What is Dongmyo Flea Market?
Dongmyo Flea Market is a popular thrifting spot in Seoul, South Korea, which has a wide range of items including vintage clothing and accessories.
A great thrifting spot in Seoul
Located near Dongmyo Station, Dongmyo Flea Market is an amazing spot for thrifting in Seoul. It’s nothing like the busy streets of Myeongdong, but this is what adds to its charm.
It’s the perfect place to find secondhand treasures, from vintage clothing, accessories and kitchen wear to unique collectibles.
Whether you’re searching for retro fashion, artwork or home decor, this vintage market has it all.
Don’t miss out on exploring this popular shopping destination during your time in Seoul!
What kind of items to expect
Dongmyo Flea Market is the perfect place for finding unique treasures in Seoul. This popular thrifting spot offers a wide range of items, including lots of vintage clothing, handbags, retro accessories, antique furniture and more.
At Dongmyo Flea Market, you can also discover some unique artwork pieces. Some of them are secondhand, while others looked pretty new to me!
Dongmyo Flea Market is also a great place to find vinyl records from the 70s, 60s, and 80s. One of the stores called Dol Record has been around since 1975! It’s survived all these years because people have been telling each other about it.
So if you’re into retro music and collectible vinyl, this is definitely the place for you. You can browse through their collection and maybe even find some hidden gems.
Sometimes there are also stalls that sell jewelry, vintage cameras, electronics and secondhand books.
All in all, Dongmyo Flea Market is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for one-of-a-kind souvenirs and bargains.
Tip: If you’re looking for a market with lots of food stalls you won’t find that here. Instead, head over to the vibrant Gwangjang food market.
Tips for shopping at Dongmyo Flea Market
Here are some tips for shopping at Dongmyo Flea Market:
- Bring cash: Most vendors only accept cash, so make sure to bring enough with you.
- Bargain: Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price. It’s common practice at the market, and you may be able to get a better deal.
- Explore all the stalls: Take your time to wander around and explore all the different stalls. You never know what hidden gems you might find.
- Dress comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes and clothing as you’ll be doing a lot of walking and possibly digging through piles of clothes.
- Check for quality: Make sure to carefully inspect items before purchasing them, especially if they’re secondhand or vintage. Look for any damages or signs of wear.
- Get there early: If you want to have first pick, try to arrive early in the morning when the market opens.
- Be open-minded: Keep an open mind and be willing to embrace unique finds that you might not have initially considered.
Other attractions near Dongmyo Flea Market
There are several other places to discover near to Dongmyo Flea Market. Explore the nearby temples and visit the iconic Dongdaemun Design Plaza. Keep reading to find out what adventures to go on next.
Nearby temples and cultural sites
Dongmyo Flea Market is surrounded by different nearby temples and cultural sites, making it a perfect spot for exploring the rich history and traditions of Seoul. Here are some attractions you can explore:
- Dongmyo Shrine: Located right by the flea market, this ancient shrine offers a peaceful escape from the bustling market atmosphere. Take a moment to admire the beautiful architecture and learn about its significance in Korean culture.
- Jogyesa Temple: Just a short distance away, Jogyesa Temple is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Seoul. Marvel at the colorful decorations and join in on meditation sessions or traditional ceremonies if you’re lucky.
- Bongwonsa Temple: If you’re up for a little adventure, head over to Bongwonsa Temple located on Mount Ansan. Enjoy a refreshing hike to reach this serene temple surrounded by nature.
- Seodaemun Prison History Hall: For those interested in the darker side of Korean history, visit Seodaemun Prison History Hall. This museum provides insight into Korea’s struggle for independence from Japanese colonial rule.
- Bukchon Hanok Village: Immerse yourself in traditional Korean architecture at this traditional village in Seoul. Walk through its narrow winding streets lined with beautifully preserved hanok houses.
Dongdaemun Design Plaza
Dongdaemun Design Plaza, also referred to as DDP, is one of the best attractions to visit near Dongmyo Flea Market. Located in close proximity to the market, it offers a unique and modern architectural experience.
It’s around a 20-minute walk from the market. Designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid, this futuristic building is a hub for fashion, art, and design.
Inside, you can find interesting exhibitions showcasing innovative designs from both local and international artists. Make sure to visit the futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza during your trip to Seoul.
In conclusion
Dongmyo Flea Market is the ultimate thrifting destination in Seoul. With its wide range of products, from vintage clothes to antiques and art works, it’s a paradise for bargain hunters and fashion lovers.
So if you’re looking for a unique shopping experience filled with hidden treasures, Dongmyo Flea Market is the place to be in Seoul.
Away with Danae
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