Nampodong, Gukje Market and BIFF Square in Busan (Guide)

Looking for free things to do in Busan? Or are you planning for an all-day exploration around the city?

When traveling to a new city, it is best to visit more than one attraction in a single location and that is simply the case when you visit BIFF Square, Gukje Market and Nampodong Street.

If you love to venture the outdoors of Busan and immerse yourself to local and modern culture of Busan, head to this area filled with shopping alleys and food stands.

Read on to familiar the BIFF Square, Gukje Market and Nampodong Street:

What can you see and do in BIFF Square?
What can you do at Gukje Market?
What can you do at Nampodong Street?
How can you get to BIFF Square, Gukje Market and Nampodong Street by subway and taxi?
Why should you include BIFF Square, Gukje Market, and Nampodong Street in your things to do in Busan list?

What are the things to do in Nampodong Street?

Nampodong Street at Night — Night-time of Nampodong Street – Photo by Visit Korea

Those who love checking out happenings in downtown areas in every city they visit, you will enjoy Nampodong, one of Busan’s downtown areas.

Nampodong is famous as an access area to many of Busan’s top urban destinations namely BIFF Square and Gukje Market.

Aside from Gukje Market, Nampodong is home to the famous Nampodong Underground Shopping Center. If you opt to go to the street market, make sure you wear stretchable clothing to make way for room for more bites!

Shops and Stalls in Nampodong Street – Photo by Visit Korea

Nampodong is a lovely place to explore where many sights and landmarks are walking distance from each other, hence travelers can save money from their transportation costs.

Along the way, travelers can spot and find shops as well as restaurants and cafe.

Best Time to Visit

Daytime

Entrance Fees

Free

Address

Nampo-dong, Jung-gu, Busan-si

What are the things to do in Gukje Market?

Gukje Market Street Foods — Another Entrance

Gukje Market Busan — Food Stalls in Gukje Market

Nampodong leads to Gukje Market, one of the most popular markets in the city of Busan. It is also known as Nampodong International Market, with the word, “gukje” which means, “ international”.

Gukje Market Retail Shops — Clothing and Hats – Photo by Visit Korea

Gukje Market Selling Bags — Luggage and Bags – Photo by Visit Korea

Gukje Market Selling Household Items — Household Items – Photo by Visit Korea

Gukje Market is not just a place for trading goods and shopping, but it also has a cultural and historical significance.

War refugees first established this very market during the Korean War.

When they arrived in Busan (which was unaffected by the war), they put up stalls and started selling as their means of livelihood. Soon, the market grew to what it is today.

Gukje Market is huge in terms of size as well as in terms of variation. It seems everything is sold here from combs to appliances. The good news, the market is organized with products being sold arranged in zones.

What can you buy at Gukje Market?

Your senses will be enticed when you see the great variation of products you can find and shop at Gukje. Here are some of them:

Apparels from ladies wear to kids
Agricultural products
Kitchen appliances
Toys
Souvenirs

Basically, almost anything. Some stores do accept credit cards, giving more reasons for travelers to shop! And that makes Gukje one of the most enjoyable open-air and outdoor markets in Korea.

Gukje as a food market

Gukje Market is not just for shopping. Just like most areas in South Korea, it is another food stop with plenty of street food tempting visitors.

From bite-sized nibbles to warm soup, Gukje will leave you full. After all, the best way to end a good shopping spree is with a great meal. Likewise, if you are in Gukje for some sightseeing, it is best paired with tasty food.