Namdaemun and Dongdaemun market guide: wholesale shopping tips

Korea's two biggest markets, very different vibes: Namdaemun Market (남대문시장): - Hours: 11 PM - 4 AM (wholesale), 9 AM - 7 PM (retail) - Best for: accessories, sunglasses, bags, Korean food ingredients - Haggling: expected! Start at 60-70% of asking price - Don't miss: Gukje Kalguksu Alley (noodle soup, ₩6,000) Dongdaemun (동대문): - Open until 5 AM (fashion buildings) - Best for: clothes, fabrics, K-fashion - Buildings: Doota Mall (tourist), APM (wholesale), Pyounghwa Market (cheap) - Some buildings require minimum purchase for wholesale prices Tips for both: - Cash gets better prices than card - Bring a big bag/backpack - Late night (11 PM - 2 AM) has the best wholesale deals - Tax refund available at most shops