Vibrant Local Vibes: Youth Malls in Korea’s Traditional Markets #1
- zone tp
- Oct 7
- 3 min read
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Trendy Shops and Eateries in Local Markets!
Youth Malls are projects that help young entrepreneurs run unique shops within traditional markets.
Through this project, tradition meets youth, bringing even more vibrancy to the markets!
Explore the youth malls that have breathed new charm into Korea's traditional markets!
Let's begin😎
Seoul Family is a youth mall located in Gyeongdong Market, offering a variety of foods and programs that blend traditional elements with modern trends. It is situated near Gyeongdong 1960 Starbucks, a landmark of the market, making it an ideal route to explore the youth mall and then relax at Starbucks. This place attracts visitors with foods and desserts popular among young people and is a favorite spot not only for family and friends but also for romantic dates.
Traditional foods and desserts are enhanced with trendy touches unique to the youth mall, making them irresistible. Beyond food, you can also enjoy programs at various workshops, such as creating traditional goods or custom T-shirts. Family Room is available for rent for those who want to host shared kitchen events, birthday parties, or live broadcasts, and anyone can use it with prior reservation.
Address: 3F 3 Gosanja-ro 36-gil, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul
Work: 11AM – 8PM
Jinju Jungang Market Youth Mall offers everything from a food zone to a culture salon, as well as cultural content like comics and board games. Blending with the traditional market while showcasing the unique personality of young people, its retro interior turns every corner into a photo spot. Beyond the diverse food options, visitors can enjoy shared kitchens, living spaces, and themed hideouts in each room.
From May, the mall also hosts Beer Pub 1884, a draft beer festival combining culture and nostalgia. Beer Pub 1884 is a festival at Jinju Jungang Market Youth Mall where visitors can enjoy unique market foods with draft beer. The name “1884” refers to the year the market was established, and the youth mall has gained popularity by reinterpreting the old street of stalls with a retro vibe. Until October this year, the draft beer festival is held every Saturday, offering romantic moments with various experience booths and busking performances.
Address: 8-1 Jinyangho-ro 547beon-gil, Jinju-si, Gyeongsangnam-do
Work: Business hours vary by store
1913 Songjeong Station Market is a market in Gwangju where the past and present harmoniously blend, offering a taste of the city’s unique character. While there isn’t a separate youth mall, traditional shops and youth-run stores coexist to form the market. Once declining under the pressure of large supermarkets and online stores, the market has regained attention by highlighting its traditional charm alongside young entrepreneurs.
Shops that have been here for over 110 years preserved the old atmosphere with minimal remodeling, while new stores added a retro touch. Thanks to these efforts, the market retains a more traditional feel compared to other youth malls. Visiting the stationery shops or arcades will transport you back in time. Market days fall on dates ending in 3 or 8, so visiting then lets you experience the market at its liveliest!
Address: 13 Songjeong-ro 8beon-gil, Gwangsan-gu, Gwangju
Work: Tue – Thu 11AM – 10PM
Fri – Sun 11AM – 11PM
Closed on the 2nd and 4th Monday of every month
