"Seoul: City of Busy" a Seoul Travel Page by hindu1936

Although Tongdaemun is changing and moving away from the traditional Korean open market concept, the big department stores haven't yet wiped everything out. Yes, the Old Green Bldg that housed the Russian leather shops is gone, and the stadium is gone, but the shoe alley, the Russian shop across the street, and many other street shops are still present.

It is here that you will find the best bargains, the real hubbub of wheeling and dealing, and the lack of tourist attractions outside of the shopping. Be aware that if it has a brand name and is cheap, it was probably made three streets over where knock-offs are manufactured. The quality won't be bad though, so enjoy the substantial saving.

Tongdaemun is where the shop owners in Namdaemun buy their goods.

It is easily reached by using the #1, or #4 subway line and getting off at the Tongdaemun stop. If you are on foot and near City Hall, walk a few blocks north until you see a giant bronze warrior in the middle of the street. Turn right, go to a bus stop. You are now on Cheongno St and all buses go to Tongdaemun.