Insa-dong, located in the heart of the city, is an important place where old but precious and traditional goods are on display. There is one main road in Insa-dong with alleys on each side. Within these alleys are galleries and traditional restaurants, teahouses, and cafes.

The galleries are the heartbeat of Insa-dong. There are about 100 galleries in the area and you can see every example of traditional Korean fine art from paintings to sculptures. The most famous galleries are Hakgojae Gallery, which functions as the center of folk art, Gana Art Gallery, which promotes many promising artists, and Gana Art Center.

Ssamzigil, opened on December 18, 2004, has been called the "Special Insa-dong within Insa-dong." This unique area was designed in such a way as to connect each charming level together in the form of a spiraling walkway. Enjoy window-shopping in the cozy stores until you reach the top, where you will arrive at Sky Garden. Here, you can get a extraordinarily clear view of the sky. Ssamzigil covers 42,700sq. ft. with over 70 shops including handicraft stores, souvenir shops, art galleries, restaurants, and more. 

 

 

The teahouses and restaurants are the perfect complement to the galleries. At first they might be hard to find, but if you take the time to stroll around the twisting alleyways, the window shopping in itself can be very entertaining. The shops in Insa-dong are very popular among all age groups, because each one is unique.

Every Saturday from 14:00 to 22:00 and Sunday from 10:00 to 22:00, the main street is blocked off from traffic and it becomes a cultural space. Stores set up booths outside and Korean candy merchants and fortune teller stalls can easily be found; there are traditional performances and exhibits as well. Insa-dong is especially popular among international tourists. This is where they can experience and see traditional Korean culture firsthand, and also purchase pieces of fine art. On the street you can eat Korean taffy and traditional pajeon (green onion pancake), and lose yourself in all the joyous festivities of the street.

How to Get There

[Subway]

Anguk Station (Seoul Subway Line 3), Exit 6.

Go 100m straight, then turn left.