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At a Glance: Jukdo Market (죽도시장) in Pohang offers fresh seafood, local specialties, and vibrant shopping opportunities along Korea's east coast.
Arriving at Jukdo Market (죽도시장) early in the morning is a treat. The air is crisp, and vendors are just setting up their stalls. It’s a busy scene as locals prepare for another day of trading fresh produce and seafood. You’ll quickly notice the colorful displays of fish, vegetables, and traditional snacks that fill the market.
Shoppers rave about Jukdo Market for its vast selection and affordability. With around 1,500 stores, it’s the largest traditional market on Korea’s east coast. The lively atmosphere, combined with the opportunity to buy fresh seafood straight from the source, makes it worth trying destination for both locals and tourists.
One of the highlights is the Jukdo Fish Market within the larger complex. Over 200 restaurants serve hoe (sliced raw fish), allowing visitors to sample various seafood dishes right where they were caught. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can pick out your fish and have it prepared on the spot for a small fee.
What are the most popular items at Jukdo Market (죽도시장)?
The star of Jukdo Market is undoubtedly its seafood offerings. Local specialties such as mulhoe (a cold raw fish soup), abalone porridge, and gwamegi (dried mackerel) are highly recommended. Prices are very reasonable; for instance, you can enjoy a bowl of mulhoe for about ₩10,000 (around $7 USD).
If you’re not keen on raw fish, there are plenty of other options like fresh vegetables and locally-made snacks to explore. I found some excellent kimchi and traditional sweets while wandering through the aisles. Just be prepared to haggle a bit if you’re buying from independent vendors.
Can you get tax refunds at Jukdo Market (죽도시장)?
Tax refunds are available for foreign visitors at Jukdo Market. To qualify, you’ll need to spend over ₩30,000 (about $22 USD) in one day at participating shops. Keep your receipts handy; you’ll need them to claim your refund before leaving Korea.
When is the best time to shop at Jukdo Market (죽도시장)?
The market operates daily from 08:00 to 22:00, making it convenient no matter your schedule. Mornings are particularly lively as vendors set up their stalls and fresh seafood arrives from local fishing boats.
As for photography opportunities, early mornings provide excellent natural light with fewer crowds. if you want vibrant colors and less chaos in your shots, aim for that sweet spot just after sunrise. But keep in mind that by mid-morning, it can get quite busy!
