Discover Gangneung Jungang Market, Korea’s local food paradise. From crispy dakgangjeong and handmade croquettes to sweet oranda, explore must-try street foods, vibrant stalls, and live weekend performances.
Gangneung Jungang Market
My grandfather’s hometown is Gangneung, so growing up, our family often traveled there—at least twice a year—for holidays or big family gatherings. I may not be a local, but compared to most visitors, I’ve gotten to know the city in a more personal way.
One place that really stands out from all those trips is Gangneung Jungang Market. Tucked right in the middle of downtown, this market was once just a quiet spot for locals. Until 2018, it barely drew any attention from travelers. Back then, it wasn’t a tourist destination at all—it was where nearby farming and fishing families came to shop for ritual offerings or event essentials. The facilities were old, the vibe was practical rather than charming, and even though I visited Gangneung so often, I hardly ever had a reason to set foot inside.
But then came the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics, and everything changed. The market went through a major renovation, with clean, modernized facilities and a burst of new food stalls showcasing local specialties. Almost overnight, Gangneung Jungang Market reinvented itself as a must-visit stop for travelers. According to the city’s official data, about 72% of its visitors today are tourists from outside the region—a dramatic shift from its past.
As of 2026, the market has evolved even further. While it retains its traditional charm, it has become a trendsetting spot where classic Korean flavors meet modern street food styles. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning after a few years, here is the updated list of what you shouldn’t miss.
Must-Try Foods at Gangneung Jungang Market
So, what should you eat when exploring this lively market? Based on my own experiences, I’ve put together a list of dishes that I think are absolute musts. And here’s one tip: if you see multiple stalls selling the same food, follow the crowd. In Korea, a long line is almost always a sign that the food at the end of it is worth the wait.
Dakgangjeong (Korean Sweet Crispy Fried Chicken)
The first food you need to try is Dakgangjeong—sweet, crispy fried chicken. Traditionally, two cities have been the heavyweights when it comes to this dish: Sokcho, home to the legendary Manseok Dakgangjeong (만석닭강정), and Incheon, famous for Sinpo Dakgangjeong (신포닭강정). Both names are household staples in Korea.
But lately, Baeni Dakgangjeong (배니닭강정) in Gangneung has been stealing the spotlight. It’s frequently featured on Korean food shows, and even celebrities are known to stop by. Personally, it’s a place I never skip when I’m in town. The chicken is perfectly crunchy on the outside and coated in a glossy sweet sauce that makes every bite addictive.
Dakgangjeong is one of those dishes everyone loves—kids, adults, even picky eaters. If you only have time for one food stop at Gangneung Jungang Market, this is the one I’d recommend. Here’s a little insider tip: dakgangjeong tastes even better once it cools down. Grab a box to go, and later, enjoy it with an ice-cold beer at your hotel. Trust me, it’s the perfect combination.
Waiting Tip: It’s busiest between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM. If the line is too long, check out ‘Geumseong Dakgangjeong’ nearby; it’s another local favorite with a slightly different spice level.
Suje Eomuk Goroke (Handmade Fish Cake Croquette)
Next on the list is Suje Eomuk Goroke, or handmade fish cake croquettes. This stall is one of the most famous in the market—easily recognizable by the longest line of waiting customers. The croquettes are made with a crispy fish cake batter shell and stuffed with a variety of fillings like cheese, sweet potato, or even kimchi. Of all the options, the cheese croquette is hands-down the most popular.
Fun fact: the shop’s name is the same as the item it sells, so you don’t really need to remember it. Just look for the bright orange sign and the never-ending line—that’s the one. I still remember standing with my wife in the middle of winter for nearly twenty minutes just to get a taste. When we finally did, the first bite made us forget the cold completely.
A quick word of advice: these croquettes are best eaten fresh and hot. Once they cool, the oiliness becomes heavy and the crisp texture fades. So don’t save them for later—enjoy them right away for the best experience.
New Flavor Alert: Besides cheese and kimchi, look for the ‘Sweet Potato’ or ‘Spicy Japchae’ fillings which have recently become hits among international travelers.
Oranda (Traditional Korean Sweet Snack)
The last treat I recommend is Oranda, a sticky-sweet traditional Korean snack. At Gangneung Jungang Market, the go-to spot for this is Yetdam Gotgan (예닮곳간). I’ll be honest—I never liked oranda before. I’ve always leaned toward snacks that are crunchy and savory rather than chewy and sweet.
But one day, curiosity got the better of me, and I tried a sample at their tasting corner. That one bite completely changed my mind. It wasn’t overly hard, and the sweetness gently melted across my tongue. It was the kind of flavor that just makes you feel good—simple, nostalgic, and unexpectedly delightful. It’s something you can’t really understand until you try it yourself.
The best part about Yetdam Gotgan is that sampling is encouraged. Beyond oranda, they also sell puffed rice treats and old-school snacks like geonppang (건빵). And there’s no pressure—if you don’t like what you taste, you can simply walk away. But let me warn you: once you try a bite, chances are you’ll end up buying a bag (or two), just like I did.
2026 Travel Tips for Jungang Market (Final Update)
Payment: Cards are Welcome, but Cash is King
Most major food stalls now accept Samsung Pay and international credit cards (and more large shops are adopting Apple Pay!). However, for small traditional stalls hidden in the alleys, it’s still best to carry around 10,000–20,000 KRW in cash.
Insider Tip: Many vendors actually prefer cash. If you pay with cash, some shops might give you a small extra “service” (bonus food) or even a tiny discount!
Where to Eat Comfortably
If the streets are too crowded to enjoy your snacks, head to the second floor of the central market building. There is a designated rest area with benches and tables. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle for a moment.
Keep in Mind: This area can also get very packed during weekends or peak seasons. For foods that take a while to eat, like Dakgangjeong, we recommend taking them back to your hotel or enjoying them in a more spacious outdoor area.
Finding a Clean Restroom
Finding a clean restroom in a busy traditional market can be stressful. The best and most well-maintained options are located in the Public Parking Building or on the second floor of the central building near the rest area. Checking these locations beforehand will save you a lot of trouble!
Final Thoughts
Of course, these aren’t the only foods worth trying. Gangneung Jungang Market is full of local specialties like spicy jang kalguksu noodle soup, kimchi-wrapped pork belly, garlic baguettes, and potato ongshimi dumplings. The dishes I highlighted here were chosen because they’re especially easy for international travelers to enjoy—familiar enough not to feel intimidating, yet distinctively Korean. If you’re curious about other foods or specific restaurants, feel free to reach out—I’d be glad to share more tips.
Even if you don’t eat a thing, the market itself is worth exploring. With nearly 300 stalls and over 200 vendors, the energy here is electric. On Friday and Saturday evenings, you can even catch live busking performances that bring even more life to the already bustling atmosphere.
To wrap things up, here are some quick answers to frequently asked questions about visiting Gangneung Jungang Market.
FAQ
When is Gangneung Jungang Market open?
The market generally runs from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, though individual vendor hours may vary. The best part—it’s open every single day, including weekends and national holidays. That means no matter when you visit Gangneung, you can always add the market to your itinerary.
How do I get to Gangneung Jungang Market?
From the Gangneung Express Bus Terminal, hop on buses 206, 207, 202-1, 302, or 303-1, all of which stop at the market. If you’re coming from Gangneung Station, the No. 100 bus will take you straight there. Since the market sits right in the city center, taking a taxi is another easy option—and the fare is usually around 8,000 – 12,000 KRW (as of 2026), making it a convenient choice if you’re short on time.
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