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Shopping in and around the areas of Insadong and Samcheong-dong is a truly
unique experience, and one very different from the congested neighboring
areas of Namdaemun, Dongdaemun and Myeong-dong. Gone are the flickering
neon lights, teeming stalls and looming department stores in favor for quieter,
cozier shops much more traditional in design. Insadong, long since regarded
as the place to come to for artwork and antiques, is a great place to enjoy
the afternoon combing store front windows and alleyways for all things authentically
Korean.
Shoppers should note that many of the shops feature items that have been
handcrafted or painted by the owners themselves. Everything from tea sets,
wooden masks, furniture and artwork can be purchased, albeit at slightly
higher prices due primarily to their quality and authenticity.
A short walk north is the quaint stretch of Samcheong-dong, an area awash
with many fashionable clothing and accessory shops – most of which are run
by designers themselves. The stylish strip is lined with numerous European
cafes, restaurants, and wine bars that make for an enticing, romantic retreat
after a hearty day of shopping. Although many of the surrounding shopping
districts sell certain varieties of traditional souvenirs, no trip to Seoul
would be complete or as memorable without a stroll through either one of
these cultural hideaways.
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Wedged between Gyeongbokgung and Changdukgung Palace, Samcheong-dong slivers
all the way up to Cheong Wa Dae (Presidential buildings) and the beautiful
hanok village of Bukchon. A little ways south, bordered by Jogyesa (chief
temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism) and Unhyeongung Palace, is
the narrow street of Insadong, replete with a seemingly endless series of
smaller shops, galleries, teahouses and restaurants.
Visitors can comfortably walk from one end to the other, taking in a cup
of traditional tea and a Korean meal along the way – there are literally enough
to fill every nook and cranny and range from the more modern to those with
more of a traditional flavor.
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Insadong has more than 70 shops, selling a variety of both modern and antique pieces
from amateur and professional artists. Exhibitions are held frequently where
visitors can learn a great deal about Korean culture through the hearts
and minds of local artists and even purchase work as seen on display. Those
interested in traditional craftwork can expect to find items ranging from
wooden masks, ceramics, and dyed woven rice paper at a number of shops flanking
the main street and the myriad hidden alleyways.
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Myung Sin Dang Brush Store |
One store in particular that sells brushes, Chinese ink, ink stones, engraving
stones, paper and books is Myung Sin Dang Brush Store. Located at the northern
end of Insadong’s long line of shops and galleries, this cozy shop is chock
full of creative gems. With knowledgeable and friendly service close at
hand, this spot makes for a perfect stop for gift and souvenir buying.
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• Address: Seoul-si Jongno-gu Gwanhun-dong 18
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Tel: (02) 722-4846 |
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TONG-IN |
Located roughly in the middle of Insadong’s main strip is the impressive
TONG-IN store. Replete with all things traditional and handcrafted, the
selection is both excellent and stylish and the décor uniquely Korean in
appeal.
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Seoul Souvenir Shop |
Also in the vicinity is the modern Seoul Souvenir Shop selling everything
imaginable – under one roof. It makes for an ideal stop along the way for
those who prefer to do their shopping in one fell swoop. Everything from
traditional tea sets to traditional hanji (Korean rice paper) fans and lanterns.
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Ssamziegil Market |
The very modern three-storey edifice of Ssamziegil houses everything from
traditional antique shops to more trendy stores carrying hip clothing and
glittery accessories. The courtyard below makes for a great vantage point
to watch
the floods of shoppers rush through in search of the latest fashion or timeless
souvenir.
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What Samcheong-dong lacks in cultural knick-knacks it certainly makes
up for in stylish fashion and accessories – all of which are designed by
the shop owners themselves making every purchase uniquely original. Traditional
items such as hanbok (traditional Korean clothing), norigae (traditional
Korean accessory to go with habok), and handcrafted jewelry can all be found
along the area’s main road and a host of other more reclusive stores snaking
up the many side streets. Reminiscent of Europe in more ways than one, Samcheong-dong
is a haven for both youngsters and adults alike. There’s something for everyone
here. And after a hearty stroll, why not choose from the impressive list
of cafes and restaurants bordering the sidewalks – the perfect way to cap
off the day.
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| Written and photographed by Gregory Curley |
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