Seoul Traditional Market Night Festivals 2026: Food, Culture and Local Experiences
Seoul Metropolitan Government, My Seoul
Looking for a more local way to experience Seoul this autumn?
Across the city, 23 traditional markets and shopping districts are hosting special food and cultural events. Visitors can enjoy Korean market food, limited-edition dishes, night markets, live performances, hands-on activities and more.
Most events take place throughout October 2026, with the final festival scheduled for November 14. Each market offers a different experience, making this a great opportunity to explore Seoul beyond its famous tourist districts.
2026 Festival Schedule
| DISTRICT | MARKET | DATE & TIME | LOCATION |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gangnam-gu | Gangnam Gaepo Market | Oct 14 (Wed) 17:00-21:00 |
Food Alley area |
| Gangbuk-gu | Baeknyeon Market | Oct 9 (Fri) 16:00-21:00 |
Throughout the market |
| Suyu Traditional Market | Oct 3 (Sat) 17:00-22:00 |
Market area | |
| Gangseo-gu | Kkachisan Market | Oct 30-31 (Fri-Sat) 17:00-21:00 |
Throughout the market |
| Bangsin Traditional Market | Oct 23-24 (Fri-Sat) 17:30-22:00 |
Market area | |
| Hwagokbon-dong Market | Oct 16 (Fri) 16:00-20:00 |
Central market aisle | |
| Hwagok Jungang Market | Oct 29-30 (Thu-Fri) 17:00-21:00 |
Inside the market | |
| Gwanak-gu | Bongcheon Jeil General Market | Oct 31 (Sat) 16:00-21:00 |
Market area |
| Sinwon Market | Nov 13-14 (Fri-Sat) 16:00-21:00 |
Market and waterside terrace | |
| Guro-gu | Gaebong Jungang Alley Shopping District | Oct 23 (Fri) 16:00-20:00 |
Shopping district area |
| Gocheok Alley Market Shopping District | Oct 15-17 (Thu-Sat) 14:00-20:00 |
Market area and parking lot | |
| Gocheok Neighborhood Market | Oct 31 (Sat) 15:00-22:00 |
Merchants’ association hall and parking lot | |
| Guro Market | Oct 24 (Sat) 15:00-20:00 |
Market area and open lot | |
| Geumcheon-gu | Byeolbit Nammun Market | Oct 9 (Fri) 15:00-23:00 |
Byeolbit Nammun Market |
| Nowon-gu | Gongneung Dokkaebi Market | Oct 16 (Fri) 16:00-21:00 |
Throughout the market and the road beside Gongneung Shopping Center |
| Sanggye Jungang Market | Oct 17 (Sat) 14:00-21:00 |
Throughout the market | |
| Dongjak-gu | Namseong Station Alley Market | Oct 23 (Fri) 16:00-21:00 |
Throughout the market |
| Sangdo Traditional Market | Oct 16 (Fri) 16:00-22:00 |
Traffic-controlled area inside the market | |
| Seongdong-gu | Haengdang Market Shopping District | Oct 15 (Thu) 16:00-20:00 |
Around 32 Haengdang-ro 17-gil |
| Yangcheon-gu | Sinyoung Market | Oct 15-17 (Thu-Sat) 14:00-18:00 |
Central market aisle |
| Yongsan-gu | Shinheung Market | Oct 1-3 (Thu-Sat) 17:00-22:00 |
Main street and rooftop |
| Jungnang-gu | Yangwon Forest Road Alley Shopping District | Oct 31 (Sat) 17:00-21:00 |
Yangwonyeok-ro 14ga-gil area |
Note: The Seongdae Traditional Market event in Dongjak-gu was completed on September 12.
Tips Before You Visit
- Check the latest event time and program before travelling.
- Benefits and participation requirements differ by market.
- Translation services may not be available at every location.
- Payment options can vary between individual vendors.
- Arrive with an appetite and allow time to explore the surrounding neighbourhood.
Discover more practical travel guides and local experiences across Korea.
Information source:
Seoul Metropolitan Government,
updated September 29, 2026. Event details may change.
How to Find Long-Term Accommodation in Korea: A Guide for International Students and Long-Term Visitors
Moving to Korea for university, language school, an internship, or an extended stay is exciting—but finding the right place to live can feel overwhelming, especially when you are arranging everything from overseas.
Many Korean housing platforms and rental contracts are available only in Korean. Large deposits, long contract periods, unfamiliar rental terms, and communication with landlords can also make the process difficult for international residents.
This guide explains the main types of long-term accommodation in Korea, what to check before booking, and how housing platforms such as Momstay can help international students and long-term visitors find a suitable home.
Why Is Finding Housing in Korea Difficult for Foreign Residents?
Unlike booking a hotel for a short trip, renting a room or apartment in Korea often involves several additional steps. Common challenges include:
• Language barriers: Listings, contracts, building rules, and communication with landlords may be available only in Korean
• High deposits: Traditional Korean rental contracts can require a large security deposit.
• Long contract periods: Some landlords prefer tenants who can sign a one- or two-year contract.
• Limited information: It may be difficult to confirm what is included in the rent, whether the photos are current, or how convenient the neighborhood is for daily life.
• Complicated booking procedures: International payment, identity verification, viewing appointments, and contract signing may be unfamiliar to first-time residents.
For students and newcomers, it is important to compare not only the monthly rent but also the deposit, contract term, utilities, location, room facilities, and available customer support.
Types of Long-Term Accommodation in Korea
Korea offers several housing options for different budgets and lifestyles. The best choice depends on how long you plan to stay, how much privacy you need, and whether you are comfortable sharing common areas.
1. Goshiwon
A goshiwon is a small, budget-friendly private room. Depending on the property, the bathroom may be private or shared, while kitchens and laundry facilities are usually communal.
Best for: Students, solo travelers, and budget-conscious residents
Main advantages: Low or no deposit, central locations, and flexible rental periods
Things to check: Room size, window availability, private bathroom, minimum stay, and included utilities
2. Boarding House or Homestay
A boarding house or homestay allows you to rent a room in a family-style residence. Some properties include meals, making this a helpful option for students who want a more personal living environment and an opportunity to experience Korean daily life.
Best for: Students who prefer a home-like environment
Main advantages: Meals may be included, and local support may be available
Things to check: House rules, meal schedule, privacy, and shared facilities
3. Share House
In a share house, each resident normally has a private bedroom and shares spaces such as the kitchen, living room, and laundry area.
Best for: Students and young residents who enjoy community living
Main advantages: Furnished spaces, opportunities to meet other residents, and lower costs than many private apartments
Things to check: Number of housemates, cleaning rules, shared bills, visitor policies, and contract period
4. One-Room Studio
A Korean one-room is a compact private apartment with a living and sleeping area, a private bathroom, and usually a small kitchenette.
Best for: Residents who prioritize independence and privacy
Main advantages: Private facilities and options for both short- and long-term stays
Things to check: Deposit, maintenance fees, utilities, furnishing, floor level, and distance from public transportation
As a general reference, the Momstay introduction materials list approximate monthly budgets ranging from KRW 250,000 for some goshiwons to KRW 1,900,000 for some private studios.
Actual prices and conditions vary by property, neighborhood, room type, and rental period, so always confirm the current listing details before making a reservation.
What Should You Check Before Booking Accommodation in Korea?
Before paying a deposit or signing a contract, review the following information carefully:
1. Location and commute: Search by university, neighborhood, or subway station and check your realistic door-to-door travel time.
2. Total cost: Confirm the monthly rent, deposit, maintenance fee, utilities, service fee, and any cleaning or move-in charges.
3. Minimum stay: Many long-term accommodations are rented monthly, and some require a minimum rental period.
4. Room facilities: Check whether the room is furnished and whether the bathroom, kitchen, and laundry facilities are private or shared.
5. Contract and cancellation terms: Read the payment schedule, refund conditions, extension policy, and move-out requirements.
6. Communication support: If you do not speak Korean, choose a service that can assist you before and during your stay.
If possible, arrange an in-person or virtual room tour. When that is not available, request recent photos and confirm important details in writing.
An Easier Way to Search: Momstay
Momstay is a Seoul-based housing platform created for international students, expatriates, and long-term visitors in South Korea. It offers a curated selection of goshiwons, one-room studios, share houses, boarding houses, and homestays.
The platform is designed to make the housing search easier for people who may not be familiar with Korea’s rental system. Users can:
• Search for accommodation by university, neighborhood, or subway station
• Review room photos, availability, rent, deposits, and facilities
• Save listings and request a room visit
• Receive foreign-language customer support
• Communicate more clearly when dealing with hosts or landlords
• Complete a transparent booking process and electronic contract
Momstay can be especially useful if you are arranging accommodation before arriving in Korea or need help communicating throughout the reservation process.
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How to Book a Room on Momstay
The general booking process is:
1. Create an account and search for accommodation by school, area, or subway station.
2. Open a listing and review its photos, availability, deposit, rent, and facilities.
3. Schedule a room visit if needed, or select Instant Payment on an eligible listing.
4. Enter your move-in date, length of stay, and guest information.
5. Review the total amount and open Coupon / Code before payment.
6. Complete payment and proceed with the electronic contract after the host confirms the booking.
The booking fee is charged after the host accepts the request. According to the provided booking guide, if the request is rejected or is not checked within two days, the payment is automatically cancelled.
Exclusive benefit for KoreaTravelEasy customers
Save on Your Momstay Booking
Use the KoreaTravelEasy coupon code that matches your eligible booking amount before completing payment.
| Booking amount | Coupon code | Discount |
|---|---|---|
| Over KRW 1,000,000 | EASY1 | KRW 10,000 off |
| Over KRW 2,000,000 | EASY2 | KRW 30,000 off |
| Over KRW 3,000,000 | EASY3 | KRW 50,000 off |
To use a coupon, select Coupon / Code before completing payment, enter the code that matches your total booking amount, tap Apply, confirm the applied coupon, and then select your preferred payment method.
Payments in KRW or USD are accepted. Coupon eligibility and booking conditions may be subject to change, so check the final discount and payment amount before completing your reservation.
Ready to find your long-term accommodation in Korea?
Browse available rooms on Momstay and remember to enter your KoreaTravelEasy coupon code before payment.
Plan the Rest of Your Time in Korea
Momstay helps you search for long-term accommodation. For other parts of your visit, KoreaTravelEasy offers a separate collection of travel services and experiences for international visitors.
Explore Korea Beyond Your Accommodation
Once your housing is arranged, discover airport transfers, eSIM and Wi-Fi options, tours, cultural activities, and other useful services for your time in Korea.
Final Tips
Start your housing search as early as possible, especially if you are arriving near the beginning of a university semester. Popular rooms near major universities and subway stations may be booked quickly.
Do not choose a room based only on the lowest monthly rent. A slightly higher-priced option with a convenient location, clear contract terms, verified information, and multilingual support may save you significant time and stress after arrival.
To explore accommodation options, visit Momstay and search by your university, preferred neighborhood, or subway station.
Before paying, remember to apply the KoreaTravelEasy coupon code that matches your booking amount.
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Best DMZ Tours from Seoul: Which Tour Should You Choose?
Best DMZ Tours from Seoul: Which One Is Right for You?
Looking for a day trip from Seoul that goes beyond palaces, shopping, and K-pop? A DMZ tour brings you face to face with Korea’s modern history, divided landscape, and stories of life near the border.
KoreaTravelEasy offers three different DMZ experiences from Seoul. The right choice depends on whether you want the classic highlights, a more personal historical perspective, or a scenic Monday trip with a very unusual Starbucks stop.
Most popular choice:
Paju DMZ Tour: 3rd Tunnel & Dora Observatory
Choose this first if you want the essential DMZ experience. It combines the best-known Paju sites with morning, afternoon, and full-day options, making it the easiest fit for most Seoul itineraries.
Choose Your DMZ Tour in 30 Seconds
- First DMZ visit or limited time? Choose the Paju DMZ Tour for the classic landmarks and flexible schedule.
- Want a deeper, more personal perspective? Choose the Paju DMZ Tour with a North Korean Defector Meet-Up.
- Free on Monday and prefer views and photos? Choose the Gimpo DMZ Starbucks & Aegibong Tour.
DMZ Tours from Seoul at a Glance
| Tour | Best for | Main highlights | Book |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paju DMZ Tour Most popular |
First-time visitors and travelers who want flexibility | Imjingak Peace Park, 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, Dora Observatory; optional Majang Lake Suspension Bridge | View tour |
| Paju DMZ + Defector Meet-Up | Travelers seeking personal stories and deeper context | Classic Paju highlights, North Korea Experience Hall, live meet-up and Q&A | View tour |
| Gimpo DMZ Starbucks & Aegibong | Monday travelers, photographers, and nature lovers | Aegibong Peace Ecopark, suspension bridge, Jogang Observatory and Starbucks | View tour |
Paju DMZ Tour: The Classic and Most Popular Choice
Best for: First-time DMZ visitors, travelers short on time, and anyone who wants the main historical sites with flexible tour options.
If you are unsure which tour to book, start here. This is the most straightforward way to experience the essential Paju DMZ sites from Seoul without spending your entire trip planning transportation and entry.
What you will experience
- Imjingak Peace Park, home to memorials and symbols connected to Korea’s division
- The 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, where visitors can walk part of an underground passage discovered in 1978
- Dora Observatory, with views toward North Korea when conditions allow
- Majang Lake Suspension Bridge on the full-day option
The morning and afternoon options work well when you want to keep part of your day free in Seoul. Choose the full-day option if you prefer a slower itinerary with an additional scenic stop.
Paju DMZ Tour with a North Korean Defector Meet-Up
Best for: Travelers who want the classic Paju route plus a more personal understanding of life in North Korea and the divided peninsula.
This tour follows the main Paju DMZ route but adds a visit to the North Korea Experience Hall and a meet-up with a North Korean defector. The session includes personal stories and a live Q&A, giving historical sites such as the tunnel and observatory additional human context.
What makes it different
- Includes the major Paju stops: Imjingak Peace Park, the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, and Dora Observatory
- Adds a North Korea Experience Hall visit
- Includes a meet-up and Q&A with a North Korean defector
- Offers morning, afternoon, and full-day options
Choose this experience if the personal stories behind the border matter as much to you as seeing the landmarks themselves.
View the defector meet-up tour
Gimpo DMZ Starbucks & Aegibong Tour: The Scenic Monday Option
Best for: Travelers who are free on Monday and prefer open views, nature, photography, and an unusual border-side stop.
This Gimpo route offers a different perspective from the tunnel-focused Paju tours. At Aegibong Peace Ecopark, you can walk through peaceful surroundings, cross the suspension bridge, and look toward North Korea from Jogang Observatory. The observatory is also home to a Starbucks, making this one of the most distinctive coffee stops in Korea.
Tour highlights
- Aegibong Peace Ecopark and its border landscape
- Aegibong Suspension Bridge and scenic photo opportunities
- Jogang Observatory, located 1.4 km from North Korea according to the tour page
- Starbucks at the observatory for a uniquely memorable stop
This tour operates on Mondays and is scheduled to return to Seoul in the early afternoon, making it especially useful when the Paju tours are not operating.
What to Know Before Booking a DMZ Tour
- Bring your passport. It is required to join all three tours.
- Check the exact option and date. Paju tours offer different durations, while the Gimpo tour operates on Mondays.
- Expect possible changes. DMZ access and itineraries may change or be canceled due to security, weather, traffic, or local conditions.
- Review accessibility before booking. The tour pages state that steep slopes make these itineraries unsuitable for strollers and wheelchairs.
- Confirm the meeting point. Current options include Myeongdong, City Hall, and Hongik University stations; check your selected product page for details.
Which DMZ Tour Should You Book?
For most first-time visitors, the Paju DMZ Tour is the best place to start. It covers the main historical landmarks and offers the most flexible choice of tour times.
Choose the North Korean Defector Meet-Up Tour when you want to connect the sites with a personal story. Pick the Gimpo DMZ Starbucks & Aegibong Tour when Monday is your available day or when scenery and photography are your priorities.
Ready to Choose Your DMZ Tour?
Compare the latest availability, prices, options, and booking conditions on each product page.
Most Popular: Paju DMZ TourPaju + Defector Meet-UpGimpo Starbucks & Aegibong
Tour schedules, routes, and conditions are subject to change. Please check the selected product page before booking.
Discover The Magical Autumn Scenery of Korea: Ultimate Guide to Fall Foliage Day Tours in 2026
Autumn in South Korea brings some of the most scenic views as the lanscapes transform into a sea of fiery reds, deep oranges and golden yellows. Running from early October through late November, fall is undeniably one of the most magical times of the year to explore the country. 🍂
From beautiful traditional hanoks to mountain peaks, Korea offers various locations to visit during the fall season. At KoreaTravelEasy, we have four hassle-free, round-trip 1-day foliage where you can fully imerse yourself into the stunning views without worrying about any logistics.
1. Korea Fall Foliage One Day Tour From Seoul – Seoraksan, Naejangsan, Jangtaesan
If you don’t want to worry about logistics, but still want some flexibility, this tour may be the best fit for you. The choice is yours – choose one of the 3 scenic locations and enjoy a full day exploring and capturing memories at vibrant photo spots. 📷
← Swipe to see more →
🍁Each of the 3 locations is well known between the locals and each have their own special qualities:
- Seoraksan National Park – the most famous destination where we can catch the very first signs of the autumn foliage.
- Naejangsan National Park – famous for its maple trees that have distinctively small and vibrant leaves.
- Jangtaesan Recreational Forest – Daejeon’s hidden gem known for it’s Metasequoia woods that you can admire while taking a walk through the forest skywalk bridge.
See details for each destination here:
KoreaTravelEasy 2. Mountain Seorak Hiking One Day Tour From Seoul
If you like hiking and want to take up a challenge, Mountain Seorak is the perfect destination for this fall season. Reach the Ulsanbawi Rock peak to enjoy some of the most stunning sceneries of Korea – and that scenery is even more magical in autumn. ⛰️
← Swipe to see more →
🍁During this day tour you will:
- Visit the Sinheungsa Temple, located at the foot of Seoraksan
- Hike up the Ulsanbawi Rock
- Enjoy a late lunch
- Take an afternoon walk at Biryong Falls
- All accompanied with an experienced by a professional Hiking Guide
- Enjoy your exclusive finisher souvenir
Discover the Mountain Seorak Hiking Tour here:
KoreaTravelEasy
3. Fall Special: Alpaca World + Hongcheon Ginkgo Forest One Day Tour from Seoul
This one-day tour offers you a heartwarming experience befriending alpacas while taking a walk through the stunning Hongcheon Ginkgo Forest, that is only open to public during the month of October.🦙
← Swipe to see more →
🍁During this tour you will:
- Make friends with alpacas, white deer, ponies and rabbits at Alpaca World
- Explore the limited-time open Hongcheon Ginkgo Forest Trail
Check the time-sensitive available dates here:
KoreaTravelEasy
4. Fall Foliage One Day Tour From Busan – Jinju Namgang Lantern Festival, Gyeongju, Naejangsan, Jiri Mountain
Visiting the southern part of Korea? You don’t have to miss out on the magical fall season!
← Swipe to see more →
🍁Operating directly out of Busan, this tour focuses on the southern fall foliage hotspots:
- Gyeongju – the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom offers a you trip through time – the city is known for its historical heritege and timeless scenic landscapes.
- Naejangsan – famous for its maple trees that have distinctively small and vibrant leaves.
- Jirisan Mountain – Korea’s very first national parks that offers some of the most stunning landscapes.
- Jinju Namgang Lantern Festival – start your trip by daydreaming at the stunning Pink Muhly Grass garden and finish it off at the famous Jinju Namgang Lantern Festival, where thousands of lanterns light up the late evening scenery.
See details for each destination here:
KoreaTravelEasy
Why it’s worth taking a Fall Foliage Tour?
- Hassle free transportation – no need to stress over complex intercity bus schedules or battle for sold-out KTX train tickets
- Timing – each tour is dynamically adjusted to make sure you visit the locations when the fall foliage colours are at their peak intensity
- English-speaking guide – enjoy your travels with an expert who will share local insights and navigate your journey throughout the day
(Now Open!) 2026 Gangnam Festival K-POP Concert
2026 Gangnam Festival K-POP Concert @Dosan-daero, Gangnam
- Date: October 4th, 2026 (Sunday)
- Concert Time: 18:00-21:00
- Location: Near Hyundai Motorstudio on Dosan-daero, Gangnam, Seoul
- Line-Up: PSY, LUN8, SAY MY NAME, ALPHA DRIVE ONE, ZEROBASEONE, KiiiKiii, and P1Harmony
🎟️ TICKET PACKAGE NOW AVAILABLE
Book the 2026 Gangnam Festival K-POP Concert Ticket Package
Booking is now open. Check the package details, inclusions, meeting information, and available options on the product page.
🔥 HEY GANGNAM! The 2026 Gangnam Festival Returns
The 15th Gangnam Festival will take place from October 3rd to 5th, 2026, across Dosan-daero and other locations throughout Gangnam. Under the slogan “HEY GANGNAM,” the three-day festival brings together 17 programs covering K-pop, parades, fashion, beauty, dance, food, and live entertainment.
On October 4th, Dosan-daero becomes a stage for K-culture throughout the day. Festival visitors can explore fashion and beauty events, dance programs, food zones, pop-ups, and live stages before the evening K-POP Concert begins near Hyundai Motorstudio.
🌟 2026 K-POP Concert Line-Up
The 2026 Gangnam Festival K-POP Concert brings together a diverse line-up of established performers and rising artists:
PSY · LUN8 · SAY MY NAME · ALPHA DRIVE ONE · ZEROBASEONE · KiiiKiii · P1Harmony
The artist line-up and program details are subject to change according to the organizer’s official announcements.
🎉 More to Enjoy on October 4th
The K-POP Concert is only one part of the festival experience. Visitors can enjoy a full day of programs across Dosan-daero, including:
- Fashion & Beauty Festa: Runway shows featuring renowned designers and celebrity guests
- Fashion & Beauty Pop-up: Participating Olive Young and Seoul Fashion Hub brands
- Random Play Dance: A large-scale dance session with 300 participants
- Food Festa & Beer Festa: Korean food brands, international chefs, and festival refreshments
- K-Spicy Zone: A showcase of Korea’s signature spicy flavors
- Open Stage: Busking performances, house music DJ shows, and festival events
🎟️ BOOKING IS NOW OPEN
Reserve your 2026 Gangnam Festival K-POP Concert ticket package through KoreaTravelEasy.
View the Official 2026 Gangnam Festival Website