Busan International Market Travel Guide: Food Recommendations and Useful Tips

Hello, everyone! Today, I’d like to provide you with a travel guide and food recommendations for one of Busan’s representative attractions, the International Market. The International Market began as a place selling various items from U.S. military bases shortly after the Korean War, making it a market with a long history. Today, it has transformed into a destination visited by many for its diverse food options, shopping, and cultural experiences. If you’re planning to visit, I’ll introduce you to some must-try foods and useful tips for your trip.

Food Recommendations at the International Market

• Dakgangjeong from Sinpo International Market The dakgangjeong you can taste at Sinpo Market, adjacent to the International Market, is an indispensable delicacy in this area. The combination of its crispy outer layer, tender meat, and the sweet yet slightly spicy flavor creates an unforgettable taste that anyone would remember.
• Chive Pancakes from Bupyeong Can Market At Bupyeong Can Market, you can enjoy chive pancakes made with chives and various other ingredients. These pancakes, with their crispy texture and savory taste, are perfect as a simple snack or a complement to drinks.
• Various Food Carts within the Market The International Market is lined with various food carts that will capture the taste buds of visitors. In particular, Busan’s signature dishes such as milmyeon, pork soup, and fish cakes are a must-try. These foods will allow you to fully experience the taste and emotions of Busan.
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• Honey Bread Sweet and soft honey bread is also one of the snacks you shouldn’t miss at the International Market. Especially in the cold winter months, enjoying it with roasted sweet potatoes makes its taste exceptional.
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Travel Tips

• Choosing the Right Time to Visit It is better to visit the International Market on weekdays rather than weekends or public holidays, and in the afternoon rather than the morning. By doing so, you can choose a less crowded time to explore the market more leisurely.
• Not Getting Lost in the Market Since the structure of the International Market is quite complex, it is advisable to use a map app before visiting or to know in advance significant points that can serve as landmarks.
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• Certainly! Here is the translation of the tips for visiting the Busan International Market:
  • Prefer Cash Over Card
    • Many vendors at the market prefer cash payments, so it’s wise to have enough cash on hand. Having cash can facilitate smoother transactions, and some merchants may offer a slight discount for cash payments.
  • Try Negotiating
    • Price negotiation is common in international markets. Especially when buying souvenirs, clothes, or accessories, a bit of bargaining can help you get a better deal. However, demanding an excessive price reduction can offend the merchants, so it’s important to negotiate within reason.
  • Enjoy a Variety of Foods
    • The Busan International Market is full of diverse food options. Instead of eating at one place, try exploring various spots and tasting small amounts of different foods. This approach allows you to experience the wide range of flavors Busan has to offer and adds the fun of enjoying various cuisines.
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  • Experience the Culture and History
    • There are many places around the International Market where you can feel the history and culture of Busan. For example, visiting the Busan Refugees Life History Museum, which offers a glimpse into the lives of refugees during the Korean War, or the filming locations of the movie “Ode to My Father,” can be worthwhile. Visiting these places allows you to experience both the past and present of Busan.
  • Choose Appropriate Clothing and Shoes
    • When visiting the International Market, it’s advisable to wear comfortable clothing and shoes. The market is crowded and complex, so wearing shoes suitable for long walks is important. Also, dressing appropriately for the season can make your market visit more comfortable.
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  The Busan International Market is one of the city’s iconic attractions, offering a variety of foods, shopping, and cultural experiences all in one place. By keeping these tips in mind when planning your visit, you can have a richer and more enjoyable experience. Create wonderful memories at the Busan International Market and experience the charm of Busan!