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Gwangjang Market is Seoul’s most iconic street food experience. Founded in 1905, it is the oldest covered market in Korea, overhauled in 2026 by the city with strengthened inspections. The 10 experiences selected here — food tours, hanbok photoshoots at Gyeongbokgung Palace and royal cooking classes — all carry ratings of 4.7 to 5.0 stars. For a first visit, a certified guide remains the best option: they know which stalls to choose and how to avoid the post-scandal pitfalls.
I walked through Gwangjang Market on a Tuesday morning, before the midday rush, and came out with a firm conviction: this place remains one of the best culinary destinations in Asia — provided you explore it with the right people. Since the overcharging scandal of autumn 2025 and the municipal inspections launched in May 2026, the market has been on a trust-rebuilding drive, and that is precisely why guided Viator tours make so much sense right now.
My 2026 selection revolves around a dual focus: street food (mung bean bindaetteok, mayak kimbap, yukhoe and the legendary kalguksu of Cho Yonsoon) and hanbok experiences in the Joseon dynasty palaces. These two worlds complement each other perfectly in a one-day circuit linking Gwangjang Market (Q12585067), Gyeongbokgung Palace (Q482485) and Bukchon Hanok Village.
The tour at the top of my list — Seoul Street Food Market Tour — holds 4.98 stars across 1,516 reviews, making it by far the top-rated Viator experience in Seoul (Q8684). It departs from Exit 7 at Jongno 5-ga station, right in the heart of the action. For hanbok enthusiasts, photoshoots at Gyeongbokgung Palace with costume included offer a unique window into the Joseon era. And for those who want to learn to cook, two classes in century-old traditional hanok houses round out the picture.
Here are the 10 experiences I recommend — all bookable online, most confirmed instantly, and designed for the traveller who wants to experience Seoul away from the tourist traps.
Gwangjang Market and hanbok in Seoul: what you need to know in 2026
Gwangjang Market (광장시장) opened in 1905 — it is the first permanent market on the Korean peninsula. Its 5,000 shops spread across 42,000 m² around the « Meokjagolmok » (먹자골목), the eating alley. Its worldwide fame came from the Netflix series Street Food Asia in 2019, which immortalised Cho Yonsoon’s kalguksu. In November 2025, an overcharging scandal broke out — a vendor caught on camera charging 25% above the displayed price. Seoul City responded in May 2026 with a full inspection: Korean and foreign mystery shoppers, a real-name system for stalls and hygiene checks on 268 establishments. The result: the market is safer and more transparent than before the incident. Seoul Daily, 20 May 2026.
In parallel, hanbok (Q701069) — the traditional costume of the Joseon era (1392–1897) — has become an established tourist practice: wearing the costume grants free entry to Gyeongbokgung Palace (normally KRW 3,000). Bukchon Hanok Village (Q490981) and the Insadong district (Q488678) complete the cultural itinerary. In early 2026, more than 2 million foreign visitors arrived in South Korea in a single month of April — a post-pandemic record — with 52% concentrated in Seoul. Travel and Tour World, May 2026.
The 10 best food tour and hanbok experiences in Seoul
1. Seoul Street Food Market Tour
The reference food tour on Viator for Gwangjang Market, praised by 1,516 travellers with a rating of 4.98 stars. Your guide takes you through the eating alley — immortalised by Netflix — to sample 5–7 iconic dishes: crispy bindaetteok, mayak kimbap, yukhoe and Cho Yonsoon’s famous kalguksu. In a small group of up to 10, you navigate the stalls of vetted (and clean) vendors without any risk of overcharging.
- 5–7 tastings included (bindaetteok, mayak kimbap, yukhoe)
- Small group of 10 max, expert local guide
- Meeting point: Exit 7, Jongno 5-ga station (Line 1)
2. Hanbok Photoshoot and History Tour at Gyeongbokgung Palace
This tour combines the very best of the hanbok experience: an authentic premium Joseon costume, a dedicated professional photographer and entry to Gyeongbokgung Palace (free with hanbok). At 4.97 stars across 360 reviews, it is Seoul’s most-loved photoshoot. Meeting point at Exit 4, Gyeongbokgung station — ideal to combine with Bukchon Hanok Village, just 10 minutes on foot.
- Premium hanbok included (authentic Joseon costume)
- Dedicated professional photographer + HD photos
- Gyeongbokgung Palace entry included
3. Small Group Seoul: Hanbok and Tea Ceremony (8 hours)
For those who want to go deep into Korean culture in a single day: this 8-hour small-group tour (12 people max) visits Changdeokgung Palace and its secret garden Huwon, Bukchon Hanok Village and a genuine tea ceremony — all while wearing hanbok throughout. A bilingual guide accompanies every step. At 4.95 stars across 451 reviews, this is the most comprehensive option in the listicle for discovering Seoul in depth.
- Hanbok worn throughout (included)
- Changdeokgung Palace + secret garden Huwon (UNESCO)
- Authentic tea ceremony and bilingual guide
4. Korean Cooking Class with Grocery Shopping at a Local Market
A perfect 5.0-star rating across 127 reviews for this cooking class that begins with a shopping trip to Mangwon Market — a genuine neighbourhood market frequented by Hongdae locals, well away from tourist flows. You choose your ingredients with the chef, then cook kimchi, pajeon and japchae in a traditional Korean kitchen. A meal you made yourself, with the recipes to take home. Maximum 8 participants.
- Visit to Mangwon Market (authentic local neighbourhood market)
- Cook kimchi, pajeon and japchae + meal included
- Group of 8 max, Hongdae neighbourhood
5. Royal Korean Cooking Class in a Century-Old Insadong Hanok
This royal cooking class takes place inside a 100-year-old hanok behind the IBIS Ambassador Hotel in Insadong — an architectural setting that sets the tone immediately. You prepare galbi (marinated short ribs), pajeon and fresh kimchi, all accompanied by a Korean tea served in the traditional courtyard. A perfect 5.0 score across 121 reviews, with a cooking certificate presented at the end. The address is easy to reach from Gwangjang Market (10 minutes on foot).
- Century-old Insadong hanok (authentic Joseon architecture)
- Galbi + pajeon + fresh kimchi, Korean tea included
- Cooking certificate awarded at the end
6. Seoul Markets, Changdeokgung Palace and Full Korean Day in Hanbok
This 7-hour circuit is the most versatile option in the listicle: hanbok provided from the start, a visit to Changdeokgung Palace and its UNESCO-listed secret garden Huwon, then an immersion in a local street market. Departure from Myeongdong station Exit 9 at 08:50 — ideal from central hotels. Transport included and a local guide throughout, including at the food stalls. At £52, this is the best value-for-itinerary ratio in the listicle for a full day out.
- Hanbok provided, Changdeokgung Palace + Huwon garden (UNESCO)
- Local street market included in the 7-hour circuit
- Transport included, departure Myeongdong station Exit 9
7. Vegan Tour at Gwangjang Market: 11 Tastings
The hidden gem of this listicle for vegan and vegetarian travellers: a perfect 5.0 rating across 60 reviews, with 11 entirely vegan and vegetarian tastings at Gwangjang Market. Proof that this market — often associated with meat and pancakes — holds unexpected riches for those avoiding animal products. A specialist guide navigates the Jongno alleys with precise knowledge of what is truly plant-based. Groups of up to 8, departure from Exit 8 at Jongno 5-ga station.
- 11 tastings 100% vegan and vegetarian
- Specialist guide in Korean vegan cuisine
- Small group of 8 max, Exit 8 Jongno 5-ga
8. Royal Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village and Gwangjang Market Food Feast
At £23, this is the ideal budget option for ticking off Seoul’s classic trifecta in half a day: a royal palace, the lanes of Bukchon Hanok Village and a meal in Gwangjang Market’s eating alley (the « Meokjagolmok »). The local guide connects each stop without any dead time — perfect for a first visit or a day before heading to the airport. Departure from City Hall station Exit 6.
- Palace + Bukchon + Gwangjang trifecta in 3h 30min
- Meal in the Meokjagolmok eating alley included
- Departure City Hall station Exit 6
9. Cultural Experience: Kimchi Workshop, Hanbok and Gyeongbokgung Palace (6h 30min)
The most immersive experience in this selection for those who genuinely want to learn: 6.5 hours of total immersion with a kimchi-making workshop (with meal), wearing hanbok at Gyeongbokgung Palace, a tea ceremony and a tour of Insadong. The combination of cooking + costume + palace is unique in this listicle. Rated 4.96 across 27 reviews (still recent, but already very solid). A cultural guide accompanies each activity to explain its meaning.
- Kimchi-making workshop + full Korean meal
- Hanbok + tea ceremony + Insadong tour
- Gyeongbokgung + dedicated cultural guide (6h 30min)
10. Private Seoul by Night: Korean BBQ, Naksan Park and N Seoul Tower (4 hours)
The perfect way to end your Seoul trip in style: a private night tour with Korean BBQ, night markets, illuminated Naksan Park and a panoramic view from N Seoul Tower. The guide meets you directly at your hotel — this is a dedicated private service, with no group. At £117, this is the premium option in the listicle, ideal for a couple or a small group wanting a memorable evening without managing the logistics themselves.
- Exclusive private tour, dedicated guide (meets at hotel)
- Korean BBQ + night markets + Naksan Park
- N Seoul Tower (panoramic city views)
Planning your trip to Seoul
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Get coveredDirect and indirect flights from Heathrow, with Korean Air and British Airways. From around £550 in peak season (June–August).
Compare London–Seoul flightsSeoul’s best-rated food tour: 4.98 stars, 1,516 reviews, bindaetteok, mayak kimbap and yukhoe included. Small group, instant confirmation.
Book my market tastingPractical tips for visiting Gwangjang and the hanbok sites
Getting there. Gwangjang Market is accessible from Jongno 5-ga station (Line 1 red). Take Exit 8 to access the eating alley directly. From Myeongdong: 15 minutes by metro (Line 2 to Euljiro 4-ga, then Line 1 to Jongno 5-ga). From Hongdae: 30 minutes. From Gangnam: 35 minutes.
Hours and timing. The eating alley is open from 09:00 to 23:00. Avoid the lunch rush (12:00–14:00) and weekends between 13:00 and 16:00 — queues outside the « Netflix Lady » stall (Cho Yonsoon) can exceed 45 minutes. Early morning (09:00–11:00) or evening (18:00–20:00): quiet and photogenic.
Cash essential. Around 70% of stalls are cash-only in KRW. Bring KRW 10,000 (approx. £5.80) and KRW 1,000 (£0.58) notes. ATMs are available inside the market.
Gyeongbokgung Palace and hanbok. If visiting in the morning, arrive before 09:30 or after 15:00 to avoid tour buses. The palace is closed on Tuesdays. The Royal Guard Changing Ceremony takes place at 10:00 and 14:00 (Wed–Mon, 20 minutes). Entry to Bukchon Hanok Village is restricted before 10:00 and after 17:00 (to protect residents).
Weather. Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are the ideal seasons: 15–22°C, soft light for hanbok photos. In summer (June–August), heat and humidity in the covered alleys — opt for indoor cooking classes. See our South Korea guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best-rated food tour at Gwangjang Market in Seoul?
The Seoul Street Food Market Tour is the top-rated option with 4.98 stars across 1,516 reviews. It offers 5–7 tastings (bindaetteok, mayak kimbap, yukhoe, kalguksu) in a group of up to 10, with an expert local guide. Departure from Exit 7, Jongno 5-ga station. Details and booking.
Is it better to visit Gwangjang Market alone or with a guide in 2026?
In 2026, following the municipal inspections triggered by the overcharging scandal, both options are viable — but a certified Viator guide remains recommended for a first visit. The guide knows the stalls charging posted prices, can communicate in Korean if needed, and helps you avoid unnecessary queues. Budget for a solo visit: £11–17 to eat well. Budget with a guided tour: £23–79 with cultural context and curated tastings. The £23 guided option remains the most accessible entry point.
How do I wear hanbok in Seoul to visit the palaces?
You can rent a hanbok directly near Gyeongbokgung Palace (around £6–8 for 2–3 hours, from Hanboknam or Ari Hanbok) — palace entry is then free. Or book a tour that includes premium hanbok, a professional photographer and a full cultural programme. The hanbok photoshoot option (4.97 stars, 360 reviews) is the most popular choice. Arrive before 09:30 to beat the groups.
What budget should I plan for a Gwangjang + hanbok day in Seoul?
Minimum budget: around £35/person (food tour £23 + metro + water). Comfortable budget: £70–85 (food tour + hanbok session + a meal). Premium budget: £115–130 (private night tour + hanbok photoshoot). Remember to carry cash in KRW for stalls that do not accept cards. 70% of Gwangjang vendors are cash-only.
Are there vegan or vegetarian tours at Gwangjang Market?
Yes. The vegan and vegetarian food tour at Gwangjang Market is the only specialised option at the market: 5.0 stars, 60 reviews, 11 tastings that are entirely vegan and vegetarian. The specialist guide navigates the alleys with precise knowledge of genuinely plant-based stalls. Instant confirmation, groups of up to 8. See the vegan tour details.
Sources
- Gwangjang Market Guide 2026 — Museum of Wander — accessed 22 May 2026
- Gwangjang Market Complete Food Guide — Korea Experience — accessed 22 May 2026
- Seoul launches full inspection of Gwangjang Market — Seoul Daily — accessed 22 May 2026
- Price gouging feud deepens at Gwangjang Market — Korea Times — accessed 22 May 2026
- Bukchon Hanok Village Guide 2026 — Korea Peek — accessed 22 May 2026
- Gyeongbokgung Royal Guard Ceremony Guide — Hani Seoul — accessed 22 May 2026
- Beyond the K-Pop Wave: Seoul 2026 Tourism Strategy — Travel and Tour World — accessed 22 May 2026
- Overcharging at Gwangjang Market — AJU Press, April 2026 — accessed 22 May 2026
- Wikidata: Gwangjang Market (Q12585067)
- Wikidata: Gyeongbokgung Palace (Q482485)
- Wikidata: Bukchon Hanok Village (Q490981)
- Wikidata: Hanbok (Q701069)
Ready to explore Gwangjang Market and Seoul’s palaces?
Book your experiences in advance to secure your slot — small-group food tours (8–10 people max) often sell out days ahead in peak season.
See the #1 food tour (4.98 stars)