[Eye Plus] Beating summer heat at goblin markets in Seoul

There are various ways to help beat the sweltering summer heat in Korea;swimming in the sea, eating hot boiled chicken soup, and camping along the Han River are some options. But shopping at goblin markets seems to be gaining in popularity.

Officially called “Seoul Bamdokkaebi Night Market,” it is a night market event organized by the Seoul Metropolitan Government. 

Visitors to the night market, which are open Fridays and Saturdays from March to October, can enjoy foods from around the world, shop for unique handmade accessories, and watch various cultural performances.

The concept of the market is apparently from goblins that appear during the dark hours and disappear as the sun rises. 

Unlike goblins that are known from European folklore, which are said to be monstrous and scary, Korean goblins in the country’s folk stories are known as naive and friendly creatures.

Not only the goblin market, but also other parts in Seoul hold various types of night markets. The most well-known are the World Night Market in Yeouido, Time Tour Market in Cheonggyecheon, Romantic Moonlight Market in Banpo and Forest Picnic Market in Sangam. LED rose garden is another option to see the night view of Seoul.

Markets in Dongdaemun, the city‘s fashion epicenter, are no exception.

Cheongchun Runway Market, meaning a stage for young models and designers, lights up the streets of Dongdaemun with fresh ideas and designs by young artists.

Are you ready to hit the night markets in Seoul?

Written by Song Su-hyun
Photos by Park Hyun-koo