Korea: Jongno Shopping Complex and walk to Bangsan Market

The Jongno area of Seoul is without a doubt one of my all-time favorite areas of the city. It's imminently walkable with an astonishing array of things to do crammed into a small area; whether you want to see the historically preserved neighborhood of Bukchon Hanok Village, shop for hand-made souvenirs and antiques in Insadong,  grab some food at Gwangjang market,  hike the breath-taking hills and see the sights from Seoul City wall, or take in some majestic architecture at any of the many temples or palaces in the area, you've no shortage of options. I could spend weeks just exploring this area as each venture out I uncovered new things to see, try or do!

Along with all of the shops crowding the walkways trying to grab your attention, there are often multiple floors accessible in the buildings with even more businesses waiting for your business. Sometimes you'll go up the stairs, sometimes you'll be going down. One of the more innovative uses of the underground space is the vast shopping complexes that cropped up around the busy train stations. Whether you need some new underwear, work pants, shoes or fresh produce, meat, and toys it's all within a short distance of most train stations. Inner city Seoul is certainly going to be no different in this regard, as space is at an even higher premium in the busiest centers of the city. This means that sometimes you'll be walking along and find a stairway mysteriously in the sidewalk, leading to a labyrinthine shopping center below. 

If you follow these paths long enough, you'll eventually pop out again somewhere. You might find yourself a few street signs or even a few train stops away from where you started, so do try to be mindful of how long you've been wandering underground. It's easy to lose your way if you're not careful. Eventually I found my way to a familiar above ground park close to Gwangjang/ Kwang jang market that I had passed many times before. I still had a ways to go before reaching my first destination, though!

More photos below!

While I would, ultimately, be heading into Kwang Jang / Gwangjang market, it was not my initial destination on this trip. Having noted it's location, I carried onward towards Bangsan market which is conveniently located quite nearby. It's hard not to be tempted by the food stalls and overflowing shops that proliferate around the market, though!

Until next time!

💖

XOXO,

NAU