Namdaemun Market

Namdaemun market is a more traditional market selling all sorts of goods, clothes, groceries and other odds and ends as compared to the clothing mecca of Dongdaemun.  Here is one of the entrances to the market with N Seoul Tower in the distance.

Some parts of the market are really quite packed with people, here are some views from the side streets feeding into the market.

Came across an interesting tent set up in the middle of the marketplace for some street performers.  A guy dressed in what appeared to be traditional garments was dancing to music and drumming by other members of his troupe.  After dancing, he really chatted up the crowd and got everyone is a great mood.  The traditional feel of this market is much more evident as compared to say Dongdaemun, which has a more modern feel and is primarily focused on selling clothing and cloths.  Here, all sorts of different goods are sold in individually owned stores, with plenty of traditional distractions such as performances below and food stalls everywhere.

Speaking of food, lunchtime!!  Ordered an odeng noodle soup and a bibimbap at one of the shops at the market - delicious!  The tiny shop was really quite packed and there was only available sitting room on the stools next to the wall.

If you're visiting Seoul for the first time, this is a definite stop on your tour.  You can reach here either using the city tour buses (just cross the street after they stop) or take the subway to either Seoul station or Hoehyeon station.