Jeju Travel Guide: Explore Dongmun Market for Local Food and Gifts
📚 Dongmun Traditional Market: A Personal Guide to Jeju’s Best Food and Souvenirs
Dongmun Traditional Market is a must-visit destination in Jeju for anyone seeking an authentic taste of the island. Whether you’re a foodie, a souvenir hunter, or just curious about local life, Dongmun Market offers an unforgettable experience. From abalone and black pork dishes to traditional snacks like Oranda and Gwajeul, this market is full of hidden gems.
Here’s my personal guide, complete with pro tips and must-try recommendations to help you make the most of your visit.
📍 Location & Basic Information
- Location: 16 Dongmun-ro, Jeju-si, Jeju Special Self-Governing Province
- Operating Hours: Traditional market: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM / Night market: 6:00 PM – midnight
- Specialties: Jeju local food, fresh seafood, street food, and artisanal gifts
💡 Pro Tip: Visit around 4–5 PM to explore the traditional market first, then enjoy the night market as it comes to life.
🍽️ Must-Try Foods at Dongmun Market
Dongmun Market is a food lover’s paradise. Here are some dishes and snacks you shouldn’t miss:
1. Grilled Abalone (전복구이)
Jeju’s fresh abalone is grilled with garlic butter for a rich, savory flavor. It’s tender and slightly chewy—an absolute must-try!
💡 Tip: Look for the stalls that grill the abalone fresh. The smell alone will guide you there.
2. Black Pork Skewers (흑돼지 꼬치)
Jeju black pork is known for its rich, juicy texture. At Dongmun, it’s served on skewers or in burger form, often glazed with Jeju tangerine sauce for a sweet-and-savory twist.
3. Hotteok from the Master (호떡 달인)
Don’t miss the hotteok master who flips these sweet pancakes with his bare hands! Filled with brown sugar, nuts, and cinnamon, this hotteok is crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside.
💡 Personal Tip: Watching the vendor in action is part of the fun. Be patient—it’s worth the wait!
4. Udo Peanut Ice Cream (우도 땅콩 아이스크림)
Made with peanuts from Udo Island, this creamy ice cream has chunks of roasted peanuts for extra texture. Perfect for a refreshing snack on a warm day.
5. Oranda (오란다) & Gwajeul (과즐)
- Oranda: A caramel-coated puffed rice snack, chewy and sweet—a nostalgic Korean treat.
- Gwajeul: Deep-fried rice crackers coated in honey. Crunchy, sweet, and highly addictive!
🎁 What to Buy: Unique Jeju Souvenirs
Dongmun Market offers a wide variety of souvenirs that are perfect for taking a piece of Jeju back home.
- Jeju Tangerine Products
- Tangerine-flavored chocolates, jams, and skincare products are some of the most popular items.
- Camellia Oil Products
- Camellia oil is known for its hydrating properties. You’ll find skincare products, teas, and oils made from this beautiful flower.
- Omegi Tteok (오메기떡)
- These chewy rice cakes are filled with red bean paste and coated with grains. Delicious and perfect as a souvenir.
- Handmade Goods at the Youth Mall
- Dongmun Youth Mall is home to creative stalls run by young entrepreneurs. You’ll find trendy accessories, handmade crafts, and artisanal goods.
- Hallabong Jocheong (조청)
- Traditional rice syrup made with Jeju herbs, like mugwort, is a healthy and unique gift.
🌟 Dongmun Night Market Experience
In the evening, Dongmun transforms into a lively night market, offering a mix of traditional street food and modern snacks.
Popular Night Market Foods:
- Grilled abalone with garlic butter
- Black pork skewers with tangerine glaze
- Giant grilled squid
- Jeju-style hotteok
- Tangerine-flavored ice cream
💡 Tip: Not every stall guarantees top quality, but the lively atmosphere makes it worth exploring.
📸 Photo-Worthy Spots
The market is full of vibrant photo opportunities. The Youth Mall has creatively designed stalls, and the fresh seafood displays are eye-catching.
💡 Photo Tip: Visit at night for the best photos—the market lights and crowd add to the magic.
📍 Plan Your Visit
- Morning: Shop for fresh seafood and enjoy breakfast snacks.
- Afternoon: Explore the Youth Mall and buy souvenirs.
- Evening: Experience the night market and try street food.
💡 Nearby Attractions: Combine your visit with a walk along Tapdong Promenade or a stop at Arario Museum.
📝 Additional Tips for Visitors
- Bring Cash – While some stalls accept cards, most vendors prefer cash.
- Go Early for Fresh Seafood – The earlier you arrive, the fresher the seafood selection.
- Avoid Peak Hours – The market gets crowded in the evening, especially around 7–8 PM. Visit a little earlier if you want a quieter experience.
- Taste Before You Buy – Many vendors offer samples, so don’t hesitate to try before purchasing.
Dongmun Traditional Market is more than just a market—it’s an experience that captures the heart of Jeju. Whether you’re here for the food, souvenirs, or atmosphere, you’ll leave with lasting memories. 😊
