Exploring Ulsan's Sinjeong Market: A Hidden Gem
Hello! We are the Ulsan City Hall Blog Reporter Team.
I used to pass by Sinjeong Market often after work, around 6 PM. Back then, many shops were closed, and I thought, 'Has the market become quieter than before?'
However, after visiting during the day while taking care of my child, I found the atmosphere completely different!
Sinjeong Market is not a traditional market that opens only on specific days; it is a permanent market that opens every day. Therefore, you can visit at any time throughout the year.
As I walked through the market in the late afternoon, I encountered friendly grandmothers calling out, "Mom, take everything for 2,000 won!" This is a common sight as they sell leftover goods at discounted prices after finishing their sales for the day. It's a unique experience you won't find in supermarkets, and I found myself buying items I didn't even need because of the low prices.
During the hot summer days, visiting the market might seem daunting. However, most of Sinjeong Market is covered with awnings, which helps avoid direct sunlight. While it was still warm, shopping was much more comfortable compared to walking under the sun continuously.
The market provided a pleasant environment for a quick shopping trip.
Traditional markets are not just places to buy and sell goods. They are spaces where local merchants continue their livelihoods, where neighbors communicate, and where the local economy thrives. Our small actions in supporting traditional markets can help preserve local businesses.
As an introvert, I often found it hard to ask, "How much is this?" in the market, leading me to pass by items I wanted without inquiring about their prices. However, in Sinjeong Market, most vendors display their prices clearly outside, which made it very convenient. I could browse multiple shops without feeling pressured to ask for prices, making it one of the aspects I appreciated the most.
The advantage of traditional markets is that you can buy just the amount you need. It's great for purchasing small quantities and asking about seasonal ingredients. Engaging in conversations with the vendors adds to the charm of shopping in a traditional market.
Many shops in Sinjeong Market accept Ulsan Pay, making payments easy even if you don't have cash. However, it's advisable to check with each vendor beforehand to confirm if they accept it.
Initially, I thought Sinjeong Market was vast and hard to navigate. But after passing through the area for about a month, I became familiar with it and found it easy to locate shops. It seems that the more you visit, the more you discover its charm.
There were many customers, and the vendors were actively selling, reinforcing the idea that traditional markets are best experienced during the day.
In conclusion, the clear price tags allowed me, as an introverted person, to shop without feeling pressured. I enjoyed fresh food and the warm atmosphere of the market at affordable prices. Thanks to the awnings, I could explore comfortably even in the hot summer, and visiting in the morning offers an even more vibrant market experience.
Why not drop by a nearby traditional market to enjoy its friendly scenery and fresh produce?
Source :https://blog.naver.com/ulsan_nuri/224352948610
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