If you want to capture the real soul of Seoul — noisy, flavorful, authentic, and full of life — Gwangjang Market is where you point your camera.
Unlike curated tourist photo spots, this bustling traditional market offers a sensory overload of neon signs, sizzling food stalls, hanbok shops, and generations of Seoul locals going about their day. It’s one of the most iconic places to take street-style and candid travel photos in Korea.
📸 Why Gwangjang Market is Perfect for Authentic Travel Photography
Gwangjang Market (광장시장) is one of the oldest and largest traditional markets in Seoul, dating back to 1905. It’s famous for its food — but it’s also a visual goldmine for documentary-style photography, capturing the textures of daily life in Korea.
Perfect for:
- Lifestyle portraits with an urban, cultural twist
- Street-style content creators
- Solo travelers wanting storytelling-style photos
- Travel couples documenting local life
🕐 Best Time to Shoot at Gwangjang Market
- Late Morning (10 AM – 12 PM):
Vendors are prepping, light floods through the roof, less crowded than peak hours - Afternoon (1 PM – 4 PM):
Maximum energy, great for motion and atmosphere — but busy - Evening (6 PM – 8 PM):
Lights turn on, food stalls glow, and the market becomes cinematic
Note: Space can be tight — this is a fast-paced environment, so it’s best for photographers who know how to move and adapt.
📍 Photo Zones & Subjects to Focus On
- Food Alley (Mayak Gimbap & Bindaetteok section)
- Candid shots of sizzling pans, stacked dishes, and vibrant vendors
- Hanbok Row
- Brightly colored traditional clothing shops with dramatic backdrops
- Second Floor (Textiles & Lace Shops)
- Softer textures and quieter photo opportunities
- Market Entrances & Neon Signs
- Wide angles with market name signage, a must-have for storytelling
- Candid Moments in the Aisles
- Locals eating, laughing, selling — raw and unforgettable
With Citygram Seoul, I help you blend in while confidently capturing these moments. We use natural light, fast-paced composition, and real emotion to tell your story.
👕 What to Wear in Gwangjang Market
- Street casual: Think neutral tones, light fabrics, and practical shoes
- Muted palettes: Let the surroundings be the color — your outfit should complement, not compete
- Props optional: A simple tote, sunglasses, or even a chopstick-in-hand pose adds realism
- Bonus look: Try layering a rented hanbok for bold cultural contrast
💡 Pro Tips for Your Gwangjang Photoshoot
- Be open to movement — this shoot is about capturing life
- We won’t stage much — instead, we flow with the crowd
- Bring cash if you want to try food (you should!)
- Don’t worry about posing — I’ll guide you subtly between action
- This shoot pairs well with nearby Cheonggyecheon or Jongno for a contrasting photo set
🌟 What Clients Say
“I wanted to show my family what real Korea looks like, not just temples. These photos are full of color and emotion — I’m so glad I chose this location.”
— Maria, Barcelona
“Marcus helped me feel confident walking through a chaotic market with a camera on me. The photos came out vibrant and honest.”
— Leo, Singapore
✅ Book Your Gwangjang Market Travel Portrait Session
Citygram Seoul offers candid, culture-rich photoshoots in Gwangjang Market for travelers who want photos that tell a story — not just look pretty. Walk, eat, and explore — I’ll capture the magic as it happens.
👉 [Book Your Gwangjang Market Session →]
👉 [See More Cultural Seoul Locations →]
👉 [Browse Candid & Street Photography Portfolio →]
🗺️ How to Get There
- Location: Gwangjang Market, 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Subway: Jongno 5-ga Station (Line 1), Exit 8
- Best Time: Late morning to evening
- Admission: Free (food not included)