Gukje Market

Busan, South Korea

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Gukje Market in Busan, South Korea, is a historic and bustling traditional market located in the Sinchang-dong area of Jung District.

It was originally founded after World War II in 1945, initially known as Dotagi Market, where people sold goods left behind by the Japanese colonial administration. The market grew significantly during and after the Korean War, becoming a key commercial hub for refugees who sold smuggled and imported goods, particularly items from the U.S. military stationed in Busan.

Known as "International Market," it reflects a diverse blend of cultures and commerce, preserving a sense of community and survival spirit from that era. Today, Gukje Market continues to be a vibrant shopping destination offering a wide array of products including vintage items, clothing, household goods, and an authentic taste of Korean street food, making it a cultural and historical landmark of Busan's old downtown.​