Dongdaemoon - Great East Gate, Seoul

Any trip to Seoul is not complete without a visit to the street markets. Dongdaemun and Namdaemun are the biggest and most popular. You can buy most anything here that is offered in the stores, but at a very reduced price. You can always ask for a cheaper price also, if you enjoy that.

Dongdaemun Gate, Originally called Heung-injimun ("Gate of Uplifting Mercy") used to served as the main eastern gate in the wall surrounding Seoul. First built in 1397. The present Dong-daemun Gate was completely rebuilt when Daewongun (father of King Gojong of the Joseon Dynasty) was in power (in 1863). The present gate is slightly larger than the original one. The architectural structure is similar to that of Namdaemun Gate. But Dongdaemun, which was constructed in the late era the Joseon Dynasty, is excessively detailed.

Dongdaemun is distinguished from other gates by a half-moon outer baffle wall, built in a semicircle to entrap enemies who tried to enter the gate.The base is a granite structure with a single arch, above which is wooden superstructure in the form of a two-storied pavilion, five-gan (a measure of the distance between two pillars) wide and two-gan deep, with a hipped roof. There is much ornamentation in the pavilion design, displaying the skill of the Joseon Dynasty-era artisans. The tongue-shaped ornamentation atop the columns is typical of the wooden architecture of the late Joseon period.

Located nearby are Dongdaemun Market (one of Korea's largest and most popular) and Dongdaemun Sports Stadium.

Dongdaemun Market presents all kinds of goods ranging from small accessories to shoes and men's and women's wear at discounts of up to 20~30%. Since most stores are open all night long, the area is bustling with shoppers who cannot sleep at night. As the area is one of the most jammed areas in Seoul, using public transportation, bus or subway is recommended. Shopkeepers of larger shopping centers can communicate in English or Japanese.

2 more images

In Seoul, the two most famous markets are the Namdaemun (South City Gate) market and the Dongdaemun (East City Gate) market. The Dongdaemun market is the biggest wholesale area in Seoul and therefore you may get items at a cheaper price. If you have time, you should explore the interesting side lanes, especially those selling Korean food.

Shopping at DONGDAEMUN (Great East Gate)!
Most shops open 24 hours!
It's more happening and flamboyant at night!

Check out Doosan Tower, Migliore and Freya Town!
There are several shops which are set up by entrepreneurial youths selling stuff from trendy, unique clothes to knick knacks...

Even though they are inexpensively priced, do remember to Bargain! But don't overdo it though as some are only students hoping to make extra pocket money... :)

Shopping in Korea is great, especially if you're shopping for winter clothes.
In Dongdaemun you can find the famous and big DOOSAN TOWER which has more than 8 levels of shops for you to do your shopping.They sell practically everything tangible which is on earth:-)You can also find good restaurants as well as fast food restaurants like KFC(Kentucky Fried Chicken) and MacDonald's here.

In Namdaemun Market,it has many many streets selling almost anything you want:-) Goods ranges from small spoons and kitchen utensils to Furniture:-) Clothes and accessories are also included!

Myong Dong was once the centre for cultural and art activities.In Myong Dong are gathered diverse shops dealing in clothing,shoes,accessories and cosmetics as well as major departmental stores.About 1 million visitors everyday visit this fashion district.Myong Dong is linked by underground passges with Namdaemun market and Sogong Underground Arcades.

You can go to several great places for shopping in Seoul, which include the famous Namdaemun Market, Dongdaemun, It'aewon and Myong Dong.

You can see the fashion style of Korea in Dondaemoon Market. In fact, it would not so important to travelers: if you don't like the crowded place, it must be worst place to you. But you can see and meet various young people there.

1 more image

The east gate is the second largest of the city gates and rivals Namdae-mum for beauty. It was built in 1397.

Looks remarkably like Nandaemun, huh?
The Great East Gate of Seoul fortress was originally built in 1397, but rebuilt in 1863.
Nearby is Dongdaemun Market.

4 more images

A long street that have variety stores there. Also a lot of department stores. So, this shopping zone is great for shoppers.