Namdaemun Market emerges as new shopping destination for foreign tourists

Namdaemun Market in Seoul is becoming a popular shopping destination for foreign tourists, according to data released Thursday. Visitors are gravitating away from typical spots like Myeong-dong and Gangnam to explore the traditional market, with card sales at tourism-related businesses reaching 109.18 billion won ($81.4 million) from January to September, marking a 7.5 percent increase compared to the previous year.

Spending by foreign cardholders surged by 65.6 percent to 15.76 billion won, up from 9.51 billion won in the same period last year, while domestic cardholder spending only rose by 1.5 percent, from 92.01 billion won to 93.42 billion won. The market's allure for foreign tourists lies in its offering of everyday items that have gained popularity among younger Korean consumers on social media.

Unlike the upscale shopping districts in the city center, Namdaemun is characterized by its narrow alleys filled with affordable household goods, clothing, and accessories. Scarves and bathhouse essentials are among the products that have captured the attention of visitors.