Intro – 통인시장
Tongin Market is a traditional local market located in the Jongno district of Seoul, within walking distance of Gyeongbokgung Palace.
It is best known for its unique lunchbox café experience where visitors can purchase Korean side dishes using traditional coins.
Tongin Market has recently become a popular Korean market food experience hotspot in Jongno, especially among visitors in their 20s and 30s looking to try a variety of Korean street foods in an interactive way.
It is also frequently included in Jongno walking routes due to its proximity to major attractions such as Seochon and Gyeongbokgung Palace.
History
Tongin Market was originally established in 1941 during the Japanese colonial period to serve residents living in the nearby Hyoja-dong area of Jongno.
Over time, it developed into a traditional local market where people in central Jongno could purchase daily necessities and fresh food ingredients.
Today, Tongin Market has transformed into one of the most unique traditional markets in Seoul by introducing the coin-based lunchbox café system.
Location
• Area: Tongin Market, Jongno District
• Nearest Station: Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3), Exit 2
• Walking Distance from Gyeongbokgung Palace
✔ Google Maps Location:
👉 View Tongin Market Location & Walking Directions on Google Maps
Lunchbox Café Experience
- Buy coins at Dosirak Cafe
- Choose side dishes from stalls
- Return to cafeteria
- Heat your lunchbox
At the Lunchbox Café in Tongin Market, visitors can exchange 5,000 KRW for a set of 10 traditional brass coins known as “Yeopjeon.”
With these coins, travelers can walk around the market while holding a lunchbox tray and select various dishes that look appealing from participating food stalls.
Visitors typically exchange between 10,000 to 15,000 KRW (approximately $7 to $11 USD) for Yeopjeon coins to enjoy a variety of dishes.
For example, exchanging 10,000 KRW will provide approximately 20 coins, allowing travelers to select multiple food items from different stalls.
Most dishes usually cost between 3 to 5 coins, which means visitors can try several types of Korean street food and create a satisfying meal using their selected coins.
The Lunchbox Café is located about a 3-minute walk straight from the main entrance of Tongin Market.
On the second floor, visitors can exchange Korean won for Yeopjeon coins.
The third floor is the designated dining area where visitors can enjoy the lunchbox meals they have created using the coins.
Any remaining Yeopjeon coins can be exchanged back to Korean won at the Lunchbox Café on the second floor after completing the meal.
Recommended Local Foods
• Tteokgalbi (떡갈비)
• Gireum Tteokbokki (기름떡볶이)
• Gimbap (김밥), Korean Sweet Chicken Gangjeong (강정)
• meat dumplings, Kimchi dumplings (고기만두, 김치만두)
• Dakkochi (닭꼬치)
Walking Distance Tip
Tongin Market is approximately a 20-minute walk from Gyeongbokgung Palace and Seochon in Jongno.
However, the total travel time may vary depending on how long visitors spend exploring the traditional streets and local shops along the way.
Visitor Tip
This experience allows visitors to walk around the market while holding a lunchbox tray and selecting various Korean street foods from different stalls.
It offers a unique opportunity to taste a wide variety of traditional Korean dishes in one place and is especially popular among visitors in their 20s and 30s.
As the market can become crowded on weekends, visiting on weekdays is generally recommended.
Dining Tip
Tongin Market is a great place to try a variety of Korean street foods in small portions.
However, visitors may consider having a full meal later at Sejong Food Street, where a wide range of Korean restaurants are located nearby.
It is recommended not to eat too much at the market if you plan to explore more dining options in Jongno afterward.
Lunchbox Café Operating Hours
The Lunchbox Café is open from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM on weekdays and from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekends.
It is closed every Tuesday and on the third Sunday of each month.
Practical Information
✔ Google Maps Location:
👉 View Tongin Market Location & Walking Directions on Google Maps
Nearby Attractions in Jongno
After exploring Tongin Market, you may also consider visiting several nearby attractions within walking distance.
• Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace in Jongno to experience the largest royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty and enjoy a traditional hanbok walking experience.
Best Time to Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul – Free Hanbok Entry, Cherry Blossoms & Autumn Foliage Walking Route
• Explore Seochon Hanok Village to discover charming traditional streets, local Korean restaurants, and unique cultural walking routes near the palace.
Must-Visit Seochon Hanok Village Travel Guide Near Gyeongbokgung – Hidden Local Area in Jongno Seoul
Recommended Cafés Near Tongin Market
• Visit Compose Coffee in Jongno for a smooth and aromatic Americano at a budget-friendly price.
Budget Americano Near Gyeongbokgung Palace – $1.50 Coffee (2,000 KRW) in Jongno Seoul
Best Cheap Korean Waffle in Jongno – Under $3 Fresh Dessert in Seoul
Best Value Korean BBQ in Jongno Seoul – Pork Galbi and Samgyeopsal Together
✔ More Photos on Naver Blog
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