Name: Gukje Market
Address: 25 Gukjesijang 2-gil, Jung-gu, Busan, South Korea
Telephone: 051-245-7389
Rating: 4.1

Lively, sprawling marketplace with vendors selling street food, home goods & souvenirs.

Busan's Cultural Tapestry: A Journey Through History and Tradition

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Gukje Market emerged after the Korean War as a place for refugees to trade and sell goods, contributing to its diverse and eclectic atmosphere.

Market's Origin

You can find almost anything at Gukje Market, from electronics and clothing to tools, machinery, and of course, delicious Korean street food.

What You Can Find

Gukje Market is not just one market, but a network of six interconnected alleys, each with its own unique character and specialties.

Interconnected Alleys

One section of Gukje Market is known as 'Movie Street,' reflecting Busan's strong connection to the film industry and hosting the Busan International Film Festival.

Film Connection

Besides the main thoroughfares, Gukje Market is full of smaller, hidden alleys (Hagwon) where you can discover unique shops and local artisans.

Hidden Gems

Gukje Market, a sprawling labyrinth in Busan, distinguishes itself not merely as a marketplace, but as a living museum of South Korea's post-war resilience. Its origins lie in the aftermath of the Korean War, when refugees flocked to Busan, establishing makeshift stalls to trade salvaged goods and necessities. This history is subtly etched into the market's architecture, a patchwork of interconnected alleys and hidden courtyards, each whispering tales of survival and ingenuity. Beyond the ubiquitous street food and clothing vendors, one can discover specialized sections dedicated to vintage cameras, imported tools, and even antique maps, reflecting the market's role as a conduit for global goods during a period of national rebuilding. Interestingly, Gukje Market is not a single entity, but rather a collection of smaller, independently operated markets that have organically merged over time, creating a unique ecosystem of commerce and culture. The market's enduring appeal stems from its ability to offer both the mundane and the extraordinary, a testament to its dynamic and ever-evolving character.

Introduction

Gukje Market's origins are deeply intertwined with the Korean War, emerging in the 1950s as a haven for refugees fleeing conflict. Busan became a crucial refuge, experiencing mass immigration and a surge in population, with Gukje Market serving as a vital hub for these displaced people. During the war, the market became a place where refugees set up stalls to sell goods and make a living.

The market's growth was also fueled by the presence of the U.S. Army, which established a military complex nearby, increasing the demand for trade. A bustling black market formed alongside Gukje Market, driven by the trade of foreign goods, including those from the U.S. Army. Koreans from across the peninsula, including those returning from Japan, settled in Busan, seeking new lives amidst the turmoil.

The market faced significant setbacks, including fires in 1950 and 1953, with the latter causing widespread destruction and displacing thousands. Despite these challenges, Gukje Market persisted, becoming a symbol of resilience and a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit of the refugees who sought to rebuild their lives in Busan. It became a place where refugees from all over the peninsula came to make their living as street vendors during the war.

Korean War Refugee Origins

Gukje Market's fame is significantly intertwined with the 2014 film "Ode to My Father," known in Korean as "Gukjesijang," which shares the market's name. The film, a major box office success, boosted tourism to Busan and specifically to the market itself. "Ode to My Father" is about a family who owns a shop in the market ("Kkotbunine"), and their experience from the Korean War until the present day.

The film was primarily shot in Busan, director Yoon Je-kyoon's hometown, notably at Gukje Market. The film's popularity led to tours of locations featured in the film, including Gukje Market. One notable location within the market is the "Kkotbunine" shop featured in the movie, which has become a landmark and photo spot for visitors. The store has recently changed to a cafe.

The movie is the fourth highest-grossing film among Korean movies with over 14 million tickets.

Movie 'Ode to My Father' Connection

Gukje Market in Busan is characterized by its maze-like alleys, housing over 1,500 shops and stalls offering a diverse assortment of wares. These narrow paths create a labyrinthine experience for shoppers, adding to the market's unique charm. Here, one can find everything from traditional Korean crafts and clothing to modern gadgets and electronics. The market's structure is divided into six zones, each specializing in different categories of goods, such as Zone 6, renowned for its dazzling lighting stores, and Zones 5 and 6, known for Hanbok shops.

Navigating the market can be an adventure, with tightly packed stores in both covered and open-air alleyways. The saying "there is nothing you cannot buy at Gukje Market" reflects the market's extensive range of products. While exploring, visitors may stumble upon vintage clothing boutiques, antique shops filled with relics, and stores selling handmade crafts. Bargaining is common, enhancing the immersive shopping experience. The market's layout may seem disorienting, but landmarks like the suspension bridge with numbered sections can help, and locals are always available to provide directions, even to the nearby Jagalchi subway station.

Maze-like Alleys and Diverse Goods

Gukje Market, originally known as Dottaegi Market, emerged in 1945 following the end of the Japanese Colonial Period, quickly becoming a vital commercial hub in Busan. Its transformation into an international market in 1950 coincided with the Korean War, during which Busan served as a refuge for people from across the Korean peninsula. This influx solidified the market's role as a cultural melting pot, further amplified by the presence of U.S. soldiers and the trade in foreign goods.

While Gukje Market was once a key destination for acquiring foreign goods, the advent of the internet diminished this role. In response to modernization, traditional businesses have been replaced by shops catering to younger people and foreign clientele. Despite these changes, the market remains a cultural landmark, a status reinforced by its depiction in the popular 2014 film "Ode to My Father." This film boosted tourism to the market, highlighting its historical significance and cultural appeal.

In 2015, Gukje Market participated in the Global Luxury Mark Promotion Project, an initiative designed to promote the market on a global scale as a cultural landmark. Today, Gukje Market spans six zones, twelve buildings, and twenty-four spaces, offering a diverse array of goods while retaining its historical charm and cultural importance.

Gukje Market

Did You Know?

Market's Origin

What You Can Find

Interconnected Alleys

Film Connection

Highlights from Reviews

Location