Dongdaemun Market is Seoul’s sprawling, legendary fashion and commercial district, officially designated as a Special Tourism Zone. Comprising numerous large shopping malls, traditional markets, and wholesale centers, it is considered the epicenter of the Korean fashion industry.
The market is famous for its 24-hour shopping culture. While daytime offers retail opportunities in massive complexes like Doota Mall and Hyundai City Outlets, the true energy kicks in after sunset. Many wholesale markets, like those in the APM group, operate late into the night and early morning, primarily catering to business owners looking to buy in bulk, though retail purchases are often possible too.
Visitors can find an astonishing variety of goods, including the latest K-fashion trends, textiles, accessories, shoes, and leather goods, often at competitive prices. Beyond the fashion focus, the area is also culturally rich, housing the futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP). As night falls, the adjacent food stalls come alive, offering delicious late-night Korean street snacks alongside the buzzing lights of the fashion battleground.
