Food In Seomun Market

Food History of Seomun Market, Daegu, South Korea

Seomun Market is one of Korea's largest traditional markets, known for its rich history that dates back to the Joseon Dynasty. The market has been a hub of commercial activity since it was established in the late 16th century, and it became particularly significant as one of the three main markets during the Joseon period. The name 'Seomun' literally means "west gate," and it refers to the market's location near what was once the western gate of Daegu fortress.

Over the years, Seomun Market has evolved, but it has always retained its fundamental role as a center of trade for textiles and clothing. More recently, it has become famous for its food alleys, where visitors can smell and taste a variety of traditional Korean foods. Given the importance of the market in the regional economy, many of the dishes derive from local produce and reflect the culinary culture of Daegu and the Gyeongsang province.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Seomun Market

1. Hotteok (Vegetarian) - Sweet Korean pancake filled with sugar, nuts, and cinnamon, popular particularly in winter but enjoyed all year round.
2. Kalguksu (Seafood) - Handmade knife-cut noodle soup, typically served with seafood or chicken in a rich and savory broth.
3. Bibim Dangmyeon (Vegetarian) - Spicy and sweet glass noodles mixed with fresh vegetables, and occasionally with seafood or eggs for those who prefer a non-vegetarian twist.
4. Bungeoppang (Vegetarian) - Fish-shaped pastries stuffed with sweetened red bean paste; a classic Korean street food snack.
5. Mayak Gimbap (Vegetarian) - Small rice rolls, literally translating to "narcotic gimbap" due to their addictiveness, though completely drug-free. They are filled with vegetables and sometimes include tuna or cheese.
6. Nakji Bokkeum (Seafood) - Spicy stir-fried octopus served with a mix of vegetables and sometimes accompanied by noodles.
7. Tteokbokki (Vegetarian options available) - Spicy stir-fried rice cakes, a quintessential Korean street food found in various forms, from extremely spicy to non-spicy and cheese-filled versions.
8. Sundae (Pork) - Korean blood sausage made with glutinous rice, noodles, and pork blood, typically steamed and served with a side of steamed organs (note: pork is a non-beef non-vegetarian dish).
9. Twigim (Vegetarian options available) - Korean-style tempura, with various vegetables and fish cakes dipped in batter and deep-fried until crispy.
10. Eomuk (Seafood) - Fishcake skewers served with a warm broth, a popular snack during the colder months.

Top Famous Restaurants in Seomun Market, Daegu

Mayak Gimbap Heomul

Address: Seomun Market Area 1,
Famous Food: Mayak Gimbap (Vegetarian)

Nakji Center

Address: Seomun Market Area 4,
Famous Food: Nakji Bokkeum (Seafood)

Daegu Kalguksu

Address: Seomun Market Area 2,
Famous Food: Kalguksu (Seafood)

Tteokbokki Jinha

Address: Seomun Market Area 3,
Famous Food: Tteokbokki (Vegetarian options available)

Heomul Sundae Guk

Address: Seomun Market Area 5,
Famous Food: Sundae (Pork)

Seomun Twigim

Address: Seomun Market Area 6,
Famous Food: Twigim (Vegetarian options available)