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Taste of Korea: Traditional Markets
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Taste of Korea: Traditional Markets
From Gwangjang Market's pancakes to calling 'Imo-nim' and getting free 'Dumb' bonuses. Feel the warmth of Korean 'Jeong'.
Market food, calling 'Auntie', free bonuses, and cash tips.
MARKET★☆☆🥟 Food Alley❤️ Jeong (Bonus)💵 Cash Preferred
Shoulder to shoulder at Gwangjang Market
To feel the real energy of Seoul, go to 'Gwangjang Market.'
Stalls are packed tight, and you sit shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers on narrow benches.
Uncomfortable? Not at all!
This is the charm of Korean markets.
The smell of sizzling 'Bindaetteok' (mung bean pancakes) and mountains of 'Mayak Kimbap' will make you hungry instantly.
Don't forget to try 'Yukhoe-tangtangi' (Beef tartare + Octopus) in the Yukhoe Alley!
Don't say Ajumma, say 'Imo-nim'
How do you call the ladies working at the market?
"Excuse me" or "Ajumma"?
From now on, try calling them **"Imo-nim!"**
'Imo' originally means mother's sister (Aunt).
If you say, "Imo-nim, give me this please~",
she will smile brighter and treat you more kindly.
In Korea, using family titles is a magic spell for friendliness.
I didn't order this! (The 'Dumb' culture)
Did you get extra dumplings or rice cakes you didn't order?
Don't panic. It's not a mistake, it's **'Dumb' (Bonus).**
'Dumb' is a warm Korean culture of giving a little extra on top.
Especially in markets, generous 'Imo-nims' heap on bonuses saying "Eat a lot~."
Just smile brightly and say **"Gamsahamnida!"**
That is the heart (Jeong) of Korea.
In markets, Cash is King
Cards are used everywhere in Korea, but traditional markets are an exception.
They accept cards, but they LOVE **Cash**.
Sometimes, paying cash can get you a small discount of 500-1,000 won.
Always bring a few **10,000 won bills** when going to the market.
Buying a hot Hotteok and getting change in coins,
isn't that the real joy of market travel?